Just 20 minutes from Occano, you’ll find one of North Carolina’s most charming and historic towns — Edenton. Known as the “South’s Prettiest Small Town,” Edenton sits along the Albemarle Sound and offers a perfect blend of history, waterfront views, boutique shopping, and small-town hospitality. Whether you’re planning a weekend visit or a relaxed afternoon getaway from Occano, here are some top things to do in Edenton.
Edenton’s beautifully preserved downtown feels like a walk through history. Visit the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, one of the oldest courthouses still in use in the U.S., or tour the Cupola House, a National Historic Landmark built in 1758. Don’t miss a stop at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center, where you can learn about the 1774 Edenton Tea Party — one of the first organized political actions by women in the American colonies.
The Edenton Bay waterfront is the town’s heart — perfect for a stroll, picnic, or sunset view. Take a guided boat tour from the Barker House docks to learn about Edenton’s maritime past, or enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding on the peaceful Albemarle Sound.
Downtown Edenton is filled with locally owned shops, galleries, and cafés. Browse antiques, pick up coastal-inspired art, and grab a coffee or homemade treat from one of the town’s bakeries - we love Edenton Coffee House. For lunch or dinner, favorites like Waterman’s Grill and The Herringbone serve up fresh local seafood and Southern classics.
From the Sounds of Summer Concert Series to the Christmas Candlelight Tour, Edenton hosts events year-round that showcase its vibrant local culture. Check the town’s event calendar before your visit — there’s always something happening on the water or downtown.
For full event listings, dining options, maps, and more, check out VisitEdenton.com yourself and start building the itinerary that suits your style.
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 dock make it easy to step into adventure—whether you’re paddling, fishing, or setting out for a day on the Sound.
Discover Salmon Creek
Right at Occano’s edge, Salmon Creek flows gently into the Albemarle Sound. This peaceful waterway is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, with calm currents and winding routes shaded by towering cypress trees. Along the way, keep an eye out for osprey, herons, and even the occasional river otter. It’s a serene escape just steps from home.
Explore the Albemarle Sound & Edenton Bay
Just across the water, Edenton sits at the edge of the Albemarle Sound—one of the largest freshwater estuaries in the United States. Fed by the Chowan and Roanoke Rivers, the Sound stretches across northeastern North Carolina and offers endless opportunities for paddling.
Protected Edenton Bay is a favorite starting point, bordered by scenic boardwalks, shady cypress groves, and the town’s historic waterfront. Launch from Queen Anne Creek to glide past downtown or explore nearby creeks like Pembroke, Rocky Hock, and Dillard. Each winding route promises quiet beauty and abundant birdlife, yet they’re close enough to enjoy on a half-day outing.
Easy Rentals & Outfitters
Don’t have your own gear? No problem. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in Edenton, making it simple to get out on the water for an afternoon or a full day. Outfitters provide everything you need, whether you’re looking for a self-guided experience or a group paddle with friends.
A Day at Bertie Beach
For another waterfront adventure, head to Bertie Beach on the Albemarle Sound. Just minutes from Occano, it’s a great spot to launch your kayak, spend the day paddleboarding, or simply swim and relax along the sandy shoreline. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!
Life on the Water
Whether you’re starting your morning with a paddle on Salmon Creek, spending the afternoon exploring creeks around Edenton, or soaking in the sunset at Bertie Beach, the Inner Banks lifestyle is all about easy access to the water. At Occano, our boat launch and day dock make it effortless to enjoy it all—bringing the best of coastal Carolina right to your doorstep.
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/
Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Albemarle Sound and Edenton Bay, the charming Town of Edenton invites you to explore its rich history, architecture, and culture. Renowned for its picturesque beauty, Edenton has earned the title of "One of America’s Prettiest Towns" by Forbes.com, a testament to its enduring charm and timeless allure.
“Edenton's charm is not an accident - it is carefully nurtured, consciously desired, and a very endearing reality!” -Lorrie
The Edenton North Carolina Lighthouse on the Albemarle sound
Edenton offers plenty of recreational activities, ensuring everyone finds many opportunities for exploration and relaxation. For history enthusiasts, there are numerous historical sites and tours to experience throughout the town of Edenton. You can take a Historic Boat Tour on the sound or stroll along the North Carolina Civil War Trail. For those who enjoy the outdoors, you can indulge in golfing, fishing, hunting, and various water activities. Whether you're interested in exploring historic landmarks, engaging in outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in a charming setting, Edenton has something for everyone.
"If you love to be active, outside, and on the water, it's hard to find a better place to live than Chowan County. Depending on the weather and the time of year, you can play golf or go hunting or fishing whenever you want. There's also no prettier place to take a walk or go for a run on Saturday morning." -Marshall
There are numerous events in Edenton throughout the year. Spend a summer evening watching the local collegiate baseball team, the Edenton Steamers, play at Historic Hicks Field. You can take a trip down memory lane with Saturday evening Vinyl Night at the Edenton Bay Trading Company, where you can enjoy music from the past. Join the fun at weekly Wednesday Trivia, featuring specialty cheeses, cold beverages, and good times. On Saturdays, explore a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and natural products at the Edenton Farmers Market, all from local farmers. Music lovers won’t want to miss the Summer Concert Series, Sounds of Summer, which occurs on four different nights throughout the season. Each concert features a diverse lineup of talented musicians across various genres, from reggae to folk, guaranteeing a vibrant experience.
To learn more visit www.visitedenton.com
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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