If you’re planning a golf getaway to North Carolina’s Outer Banks, there’s one stop you won’t want to miss: Occano. Tucked along the scenic shores of the Albemarle Sound in Merry Hill, NC—just over an hour from Nags Head—Occano is the perfect destination to kick off or wind down your coastal golf trip.
Before you cross the bridges to the Outer Banks, take a short detour inland and discover one of North Carolina’s most beautiful and underrated golf experiences. The Arnold Palmer Signature Course at Occano offers sweeping water views, wide fairways, and strategic design that challenge and reward players of every skill level.
It’s the kind of course that reminds you why you love the game—where natural beauty, playability, and quiet coastal charm come together.
Location: Conveniently situated en route to the Outer Banks—ideal for a first or final round on your trip.
Playability: The course layout combines forgiving fairways with thoughtful green complexes, making it both approachable and memorable.
Scenery: Stunning holes along the Albemarle Sound showcase coastal Carolina golf at its finest.
While you’re here, take time to enjoy the peaceful setting, beautiful water views, and relaxed pace that make this part of North Carolina so special.
So next time you’re mapping out your Outer Banks golf itinerary, make sure Occano is on your list. Whether it’s your warm-up round before hitting the coast or the perfect finale to your trip, it’s an unforgettable part of any North Carolina golf adventure.
Plan your round today → Call 252-482-5300 to book your round or visit https://www.occano.com/golf/
If you love the outdoors, Bertie County is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Nestled along the scenic Albemarle Sound, this area offers an incredible variety of experiences including: exploring the Inner Banks, paddling quiet rivers, enjoying world-class golf, and renowned hunting preserves. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Bertie County delivers it all.
Paddle the Cashie River
The Cashie River winds gently through the heart of Bertie County, offering miles of unspoiled beauty. Kayakers and canoeists can explore cypress-lined waters teeming with wildlife, from great blue herons to river otters. Launch from the Windsor waterfront or one of the county’s access points, and enjoy a peaceful day on the water surrounded by nature.
Experience Occano
Home to an Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, Occano offers more than just championship golf. With sweeping views of the Albemarle Sound and a welcoming community feel, it’s the perfect place to spend a day outdoors. Tee off in the morning, then relax by the water or take in the vibrant fall foliage from our scenic grounds.
Relax at Bertie Beach
Bertie Beach – North Carolina’s first public beach on the Albemarle Sound – is a true treasure. Its wide, sandy shoreline is ideal for picnics, swimming, fishing, and taking in breathtaking sunsets. It’s a must-visit for families and anyone wanting a tranquil escape along the Sound.
Hunt at Bub Jackson Hunting Preserve
For hunters, Bertie County offers some of the finest preserves in the state, including the Bub Jackson Hunting Preserve. With guided hunts, abundant game, and beautiful landscapes, this preserve provides an unforgettable experience for sportsmen and women of all levels.
Your Outdoor Playground Awaits
From paddling to golfing, beachcombing to hunting, Bertie County is an outdoor playground unlike any other in Eastern North Carolina. It’s the perfect destination to unplug, explore, and create memories in the great outdoors.
📅 Plan Your Visit Today: Whether you’re here for a day or a season, Bertie County offers endless opportunities for adventure.
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 and adventure.
Guests can enjoy:
Access to Occano's nationally-ranked Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course – a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
Spacious, beautifully appointed accommodations – ideal for both small and large groups.
Community amenities and warm hospitality that make every stay memorable.
Whether you're planning a quick weekend escape, a golf trip with friends, or an extended coastal retreat, Occano's Stay & Play rentals promise the perfect getaway.
Ready to plan your visit?
Call us at (252) 482-4006 ext. 409
Book directly online: www.occano.com/rentals
Come for the golf. Stay for the experience. Leave with memories that will bring you back.
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/
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 the Intracoastal Waterway
Pack a cooler, chart your course, and experience one of the most scenic stretches of water on the East Coast. Whether you're paddling, sailing, or motoring, the ICW offers endless day-trip possibilities.
2. Explore Historic Edenton
Just a short drive from Occano, Edenton is known as one of America’s prettiest small towns. Browse charming shops, take a trolley tour, or grab a bite on the waterfront.
3. Hit the Beaches of the Outer Banks
From Nags Head to Ocracoke, the OBX offers wide beaches, rolling dunes, and relaxed beach towns perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
4. Cast a Line in the Albemarle Sound
Summer means prime fishing in the Sound — from striped bass to flounder. Bring your own boat or hop on a local charter.
5. Visit Roanoke Island Festival Park
Dive into NC’s coastal history with hands-on exhibits, a replica 16th-century ship, and outdoor performances in a stunning waterfront setting.
6. Eat Your Way Through a Seafood Shack Crawl
From soft-shell crab to hush puppies, nothing says summer like an open-air table, cold drink, and fresh catch of the day. Favorites include local spots in Columbia, Edenton, and Manteo.
7. Tour a Lighthouse (or Three)
Make a day of it and explore some of the state’s iconic lighthouses, like Bodie Island, Currituck Beach, or Cape Hatteras.
8. Paddle the Cashie River or Scuppernong River
Both rivers are calm, scenic, and filled with cypress trees, birdlife, and peaceful coves — ideal for kayaking or canoeing.
9. Catch a Summer Festival
Celebrate like a local with seasonal events like the Shrimp Festival in Sneads Ferry, the Watermelon Festival in Murfreesboro, or small-town Fourth of July parades.
10. Watch the Sunset at Occano
Of course, our favorite way to end a coastal Carolina day is right here at Occano — cocktail in hand, feet in the grass, and the sky lit in hues you won’t find anywhere else.
Want help planning a stay near the Albemarle Sound? Reach out to the Occano team — we’re happy to share insider tips or help book your discovery visit.
Edenton, NC, offers a picturesque setting for those who enjoy hiking, jogging, and walking. The town is rich in history and natural beauty, with numerous trails and paths that wind through charming streets, along the waterfront, and into scenic parks. There are many places providing a serene environment with trails perfect for a leisurely walk or an invigorating jog. The views of the Albemarle Sound, combined with the town's historic architecture, make every outdoor excursion a visually rewarding experience. Residents and visitors alike appreciate the peaceful ambiance and the chance to connect with nature while staying active.
In addition, Occano offers an exceptional experience for outdoor enthusiasts. This premier coastal community features beautifully designed landscaping with stunning views of the surrounding waterways. The community's commitment to preserving the natural environment ensures that the landscape provides a tranquil escape into nature. The combination of scenic beauty and well-planned trails makes both Edenton and Occano perfect destinations for outdoor activities.
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