Life on the Inner Banks is defined by the water. From quiet creeks to the vast Albemarle Sound, every bend in the shoreline brings new opportunities to explore, relax, and reconnect with nature. At Occano, residents and guests enjoy direct access to Salmon Creek and the Albemarle Sound, where our community boat launch and day […]

Warm breezes, glassy waters, and golden sunsets—late summer on North Carolina’s Inner Banks is too good to let slip away. Nestled along the shores of the Albemarle Sound, Occano is the perfect home base for soaking up the last, best days of the season. From golf to boating to exploring historic towns, there’s still time […]

Looking for a coastal escape where comfort, leisure, and world-class golf come together? Discover Occano's Stay & Play rentals, designed for travelers who want more than just a place to stay – they want an experience. Nestled within our scenic, gated community on the North Carolina coast, our rentals offer the perfect balance of relaxation […]

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. Why This Recognition Matters The […]

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, […]

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. […]

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 […]

Top 10 Things to Do in Coastal North Carolina This Summer From quiet waterfront getaways to seafood festivals, coastal North Carolina is a summer destination full of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the Inner Banks or cruising the Intracoastal Waterway, here are our favorite ways to soak up the season: 1. Boat […]

North Carolina’s diverse landscapes offer a haven for nature-loving individuals, especially those with a passion for birdwatching and wildlife observation. With a mix of coastal wetlands, mountain forests, and inland lakes, the state provides ideal habitats for a wide variety of bird species and other wildlife. The Great Dismal Swamp, located in the northeastern part […]

The Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, made history on December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, when they achieved the first controlled, powered flight in a heavier-than-air machine. Chosen for its steady winds and soft sands, the small coastal area provided ideal conditions for their aviation experiments. After several attempts, their successful flight that […]