We’re thrilled to announce that Occano has been ranked among the Top 10 public golf courses in North Carolina, according to the 2025 North Carolina Golf Panel rankings! This prestigious recognition places us firmly among the state’s elite, highlighting our commitment to exceptional playing conditions, course design, and overall golfer experience.
The North Carolina Golf Panel is a trusted authority made up of seasoned golf writers, industry pros, and tournament players. Their annual rankings are highly respected and based on thorough, unbiased evaluations of public-access courses across the state. Being included in their Top 10 is a mark of excellence and a testament to Occano’s dedication to quality.
Stunning Design & Layout: Our greens, fairways, and landscape are crafted to challenge and inspire golfers of all levels.
Impeccable Course Conditions: Consistent maintenance and attention to detail ensure top-tier turf health and playability year-round.
Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff: Our team goes above and beyond to ensure every round is pleasant and memorable.
We’re honored by this recognition—and dedicated to continuing the momentum. We’re already planning enhancements to make your future visits even more enjoyable -- including events and promotions for both local and visiting golfers! We deeply appreciate our loyal golfers—you’re the reason for this achievement. Your rounds, feedback, and enthusiasm make us what we are today.
Curious about the full Top 60 list of North Carolina public courses? Check it out here:
➡️ View the full list on the NC Golf Panel site
Again, thank you to the NC Golf Panel and to everyone who makes Occano a premier golf destination. We can’t wait to welcome you back for your next exceptional round!
What It Means for Visitors, Homeowners, and the Growth of Our Region.
We’re excited to share that Bertie County is taking a significant step toward enhancing tourism and supporting local economic development with the formation of its first-ever Tourism Development Authority (TDA). Beginning September 1, 2025, a county-wide occupancy tax will also go into effect, aimed at funding marketing and infrastructure that promote Bertie County as a travel destination.
The new occupancy tax applies to short-term rentals and lodging accommodations across the county, including those in and around Occano. Funds generated will be directed by the TDA to elevate tourism initiatives, attract new visitors, and support projects that benefit both residents and businesses.
For Occano guests booking a golf getaway, waterfront vacation, or retreat in one of our homes or cottages, this means a small additional 6% charge on your stay, which goes directly back into making Bertie County a more vibrant and well-supported destination.
As a community, we’re excited to see the county investing in its long-term growth and visibility. With its scenic waterfront, hunting preserves, outdoor recreation attractions, and hidden gems like Occano's Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course, Bertie County is primed to become a top-tier destination for travelers.
Stay tuned for more updates as the TDA begins its work, and as always, we look forward to welcoming you to Occano—where the beauty of the Inner Banks meets unforgettable hospitality.
We’re proud to share some exciting news—Occano has been ranked the #3 public golf course in the United States by Golfers’ Choice 2025, as featured on GolfPass!
Located in Merry Hill, North Carolina, our Arnold Palmer-designed course has earned national recognition for its exceptional course conditions, picturesque layout, and breathtaking views of the Albemarle Sound. This prestigious ranking is based entirely on the reviews and ratings of golfers like you, making it an especially meaningful honor.
Originally designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, the course spans over 7,200 yards from the back tees and features seven tee options, making it enjoyable and accessible for players of all skill levels. The layout invites strategy, shot-making, and plenty of awe-inspiring moments.
Whether you’re a local, a traveling golfer, or someone seeking a memorable experience in coastal North Carolina, this is the perfect time to discover why Occano is one of the top-rated public golf courses in the country.
Book your tee time at Occano today and experience the award-winning course that’s turning heads nationwide.
We’re proud to announce that Occano has been recognized as one of Ideal-LIVING magazine’s Top 100 Planned Amenity Communities in their 2025 “Best Places to Live” issue!
Published annually, Ideal-LIVING’s list highlights communities that go above and beyond in offering the amenities, lifestyle, and sense of place that today’s homebuyers seek. The selections are based on extensive reader surveys and reflect the most desired features—from active lifestyle offerings to scenic surroundings and community connection.
As Ideal-LIVING editor Kelly Godbey explains, “Each year, we leverage valuable insights from our readers to identify the most desirable locations and the amenities that truly elevate their quality of life.” This year’s honorees include communities with features such as golf courses, marinas, pickleball courts, walkable neighborhoods, wellness centers, and maintenance-free living—making Occano’s inclusion all the more meaningful.
Our recognition as a Top 100 Amenity Community is a reflection of the quality of life our residents experience every day. Whether you're seeking a full-time residence, second home, or a place to retire, Occano offers a lifestyle worth exploring.
See the full list of 2025’s Best Places to Live here: https://ideal-living.com/best-places/carolinas/
North Carolina is among the top 10 of states people are moving to, and you could be one of them. There are so many reasons people love the state of North Carolina.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, you get the best of both worlds. You can spend your days laying on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, like the Outer Banks and Wrightsville Beach, or hiking in the Appalachian Mountains with breathtaking views and spectacular waterfalls. There are few places where you can reach both the beach and the mountains within a few hours. North Carolina offers picturesque countryside, charming small towns like Edenton and Boone, and vibrant big cities such as Charlotte and Raleigh. Whatever your preference, this state has it all.
North Carolina attracts people with its low cost of living, excellent education system and abundant job opportunities. The state is home to renowned universities like Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, and NC State, as well as a strong public school system, providing quality education for students of all ages. Coupled with a thriving job market especially in tech, finance, and healthcare sectors, and affordable living expenses, North Carolina offers a well-rounded and appealing environment for individuals and families alike.
North Carolina is a place filled with stories from the past, delicious food, and vibrant art scenes, making it a great choice for those who enjoy history, good meals, and creativity. The state's history is rich, with important events like the Revolutionary War and the Civil Rights Movement shaping its identity. When it comes to food, North Carolina offers a mix of Southern classics and modern cuisine, satisfying every taste bud. And for art lovers, there's plenty to explore, from galleries to music festivals, showcasing the state's creative spirit. In North Carolina, there's something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast.
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105 Scotch Hall Court, Merry Hill, NC 27957
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