The DOD Invitational Part 2 did not disappoint. Twelve of YouTube’s top golf creators returned to our Arnold Palmer Signature course for a high-stakes, creator-driven showdown that blended elite shot-making, dramatic eliminations, and the kind of coastal views you only get here on the North Carolina coast.
From pressure-packed putts to creative recoveries, Part 2 shows exactly why Occano’s coastal layout is both demanding and rewarding. Sweeping Sound-side vistas, strategically placed hazards, and rolling fairways set the stage for tournament golf unlike anything else on the North Carolina coast. Viewers get a front-row seat to every pivotal shot, clutch decision, and dramatic elimination.
Hosted at Occano Golf, the DOD Invitational brought together some of the most-watched names in online golf for a multi-day, creator-driven showdown. A huge thank-you to @cvagolf and his team for choosing Occano as the host course and for being incredible partners throughout the entire production.
Part 2 Is Live — Watch the Action
Part 2 delivers fresh twists, rising rivalries, and the type of competitive fire that made Part 1 such a hit.
👉 Watch Part 2 on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3XzsGDq
Whether you're a fan of the creators, a golfer looking for inspiration, or someone who simply loves a beautifully shot round of coastal golf, this installment delivers.
Stay. Play. Experience Occano.
Watching the DOD Invitational from your screen is one thing — playing the same course the creators battled on is something else entirely.
Ready to make your own memories at Occano?
We can’t wait to welcome you back to the place where competitive golf and coastal escape meet.
Occano had the honor of hosting the first-ever DOD Invitational — a brand-new tournament concept bringing together 12 top YouTube golf personalities for a competitive, creator-focused showdown on our Arnold Palmer Signature course.
From the opening tee shots to the final putts of the episode, Part 1 showcases the energy, personality, and production quality that makes this event unlike anything else in the golf world. Set against the backdrop of Occano’s coastal beauty, the Invitational captures both the spirit of competition and the fun, engaging style that these creators bring to the game.
A huge thank-you to Cvagolf and his entire team for selecting Occano as the host location and for being phenomenal partners throughout the planning and filming of this event. Their vision — paired with Occano’s scenery and challenge — created something truly special.
Part 1 Is Live — Watch It Now
The story begins here.
👉 Watch Part 1 on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4oURh1i
Dive into the competition, meet the players, and experience the start of what’s becoming one of creator golf’s most exciting new traditions.
Explore Occano
Inspired by what you see on the course? Experience it in person.
Come discover why Occano is quickly becoming a destination for golfers, creators, and coastal adventurers alike.
Searching for the perfect holiday gift? This year, skip the stress and give something everyone actually wants — a chance to relax, reconnect, and play unforgettable golf on North Carolina’s coast.
Whether you’re gifting an experience, a getaway, or a little Occano style, we’ve got something for every golfer (and every budget).
Treat Them to a Coastal Golf Retreat
There’s nothing quite like waking up steps from the fairways. Our Stay & Play accommodations make it easy to plan the ultimate golf escape — for your partner, family member, or even a friend group looking for a winter getaway.
With spacious villas, stunning sunsets over the Albemarle Sound, and one of North Carolina’s most scenic courses at your doorstep, an Occano retreat is the kind of gift they’ll be talking about all year.
A Round of Golf: Simple, Timeless, Always a Hit
A round at Occano isn’t just golf — it’s an experience. Rolling greens, sweeping waterfront views, and a peaceful escape from the holiday chaos.
Give the gift of time outdoors, a challenge on the course, and memories that last well beyond the season.
Wrap Up the Spirit of Occano
From performance polos to hats, towels, and accessories, Occano merch makes the ideal stocking stuffer. Whether they want to rep the DOD Invitational host course or show off their coastal golf style, our shop has options for every fan of the game.
Gift Cards: Let Them Choose Their Golf Adventure
Not sure what they want? Keep it simple with an Occano Gift Card.
Gift cards can be used for:
It’s flexible, thoughtful, and perfect for the golfer who has opinions about their gear.
Make Holiday Shopping Easy This Year
No lines. No guessing. Just the gift of pure coastal golf joy.
Visit Occano to book a Stay & Play, purchase a gift card, or shop Occano-branded merchandise — and give a gift they’ll remember every time they tee it up.
Give the gift of golf this holiday season: https://www.occano.com/golf/
Occano is proud to share the launch of our new and improved website, created in partnership with Real Living Productions — a leading creative agency specializing in resort and lifestyle communities. This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter for Occano as we refine how we share what makes our community so special: our connection to the water, our Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, and our serene coastal lifestyle.
Our refreshed brand captures the true essence of life at Occano — Removed from the Noise, Connected to the Sound. It’s a reminder that life here moves at its own pace, guided by the natural rhythm of the Inner Banks. From the moment you roll down your windows and breathe in the coastal air, the stress of the everyday begins to fade. Here, you can leave your worries in the rearview and reconnect with what truly matters.
The redesigned website now offers a seamless and visually rich experience for those discovering Occano for the first time, as well as for our current residents and members. Visitors can explore our community, learn more about our amenities, and even book Discovery Visits directly with our community real estate agent, Gayle King.
Through improved navigation, inspiring imagery, and authentic storytelling, the website reflects who we are — a welcoming coastal community that invites you to slow down, stay a while, and rediscover joy in the simple moments.
Occano is located in the heart of North Carolina’s Inner Banks — a stretch of coastal countryside encompassing more than a dozen counties, including Bertie, Beaufort, and Chowan. The Inner Banks are known for their peaceful waterways, natural beauty, and inviting small towns. It’s a place where life moves gently, neighbors know each other by name, and authenticity thrives.
Less famous than its “Outer” cousin, the Inner Banks remain one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets — a region defined not by crowds and noise, but by connection, tranquility, and a sense of home.
We invite you to explore our new website and experience the renewed vision of Occano — a place where serene coastal living meets genuine Southern hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a golf getaway, a second home, or a community that truly feels like home, you’ll find it here on the shores of the Albemarle Sound.
👉 Visit Occano.com to explore the new site and schedule your Discovery Visit today.
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/
Recently, our friends at Palmetto & Pine captured Occano's spirit beautifully in their video “Playing the Best NC Golf Course You’ve Never Heard of | Exploring the Carolinas Ep. 6.”
Playing the Best NC Golf Course You've Never Heard of | Exploring the Carolinas Ep. 6
Occano is that “best-you’ve-never-heard-of” kind of course. And thanks to Palmetto & Pine’s excellent feature, you now get a front-row seat into what makes us special. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path in North Carolina golf, make your way to Merry Hill and see Occano for yourself! Book your round today at https://www.occano.com/golf/ or by calling our Pro Shop at 252-482-5300.
When you step up to the 17th tee at Occano, you’ll quickly see why this hole is our signature Par 3—and one of the most photographed spots on our Arnold Palmer Signature Course. With the Albemarle Sound stretching out before you, this hole perfectly captures the coastal beauty that defines the Occano experience.
Nearly every shot here requires a full carry over pristine wetlands to reach a multidimensional green, strategically guarded by bunkers short, left, right, and back. Hitting the green in one is an accomplishment worth celebrating—and a memory worth capturing with your friends.
But don’t let the views fool you—this hole packs a punch. On a calm day, you might reach for a wedge. When the wind picks up off the Sound, it could be a 3-wood. That’s part of the thrill—every round feels different, and every shot here is unforgettable.
Hole #17 Stats
Palmer Tee: 207 yards
Par: 3
Handicap: #14
As you take on the final hole of the “Battle on the Albemarle Sound,” don’t forget to pause and soak in the view. From golf to kayaking, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing by the water, Occano is a place where experiences last long after the round is over.
📸 Snap a photo.
⛳ Conquer the challenge.
🌊 Experience Occano.
Book your next round today—or make a weekend of it with our overnight rentals.
👉 Tee Times: https://www.occano.com/golf/ or call 252-482-5300
👉 Overnight Accommodations: https://www.occano.com/rentals/ or call 252-482-4600 ext 409
The first day of fall has arrived, bringing crisp air, vibrant colors, and a refreshing change of season. At Occano, our Arnold Palmer Signature golf course transforms into a breathtaking autumn landscape – the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable round of golf.
As the summer heat fades, fall offers ideal playing conditions. Cool mornings, mild afternoons, and lower humidity create the perfect environment to focus on your game and enjoy the natural beauty of North Carolina’s Albemarle Sound. Our fairways are lined with trees that come alive in rich reds, oranges, and golds, adding a touch of seasonal magic to every swing.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just beginning, fall is the season to get out on the course. With fewer crowds, pristine conditions, and scenic views around every hole, Occano is the ultimate destination for autumn golf. After your round, relax at our clubhouse, take in the sunset over the Sound, and experience the warmth of our coastal community.
This fall, don’t just watch the leaves change—experience it. Grab your clubs, invite a friend, and make the most of this beautiful season at Occano.
📅 Book Your Stay Today: Call (252) 482-4006 ext. 409 or visit http://www.occano.com/rentals
📅 Enjoy a round at Occano: Call (252) 482-5300 or visit http://www.occano.com/golf
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 to create unforgettable coastal memories.
Here are 10 things to do before summer fades into fall:
Challenge yourself on Occano’s nationally ranked course, where every fairway opens to sweeping coastal views. It’s golf at its most inspiring.
Book a villa and enjoy resort-style comfort—steps away from golf, the Sound, and miles of unspoiled natural beauty.
Launch from Occano’s day dock or nearby marinas and cruise across one of the largest freshwater sounds in the country. Hidden coves and wide horizons await.
The Sound offers both freshwater and saltwater species—perfect for anglers chasing that end-of-season trophy fish.
Grab a kayak or paddleboard and glide through calm waters alive with herons, ospreys, and secret coves.
Pack a picnic, stretch out on the shore, and take in the kaleidoscope of colors as the sun dips behind the horizon.
Just 20 minutes away, Edenton charms with historic homes, boutique shops, and waterfront dining. It’s a perfect blend of history and coastal small-town charm.
From shrimp fresh off the boat to oysters harvested nearby, enjoy the catch of the day at local restaurants—or grill it back at your villa for the full coastal experience.
Explore trails that wind through forests and along the shoreline, perfect for birdwatching, biking, or simply soaking in the Inner Banks’ natural beauty.
After a weekend of golf, water adventures, and sunset views, you might find yourself wondering—why not make this lifestyle yours year-round? Take a tour of Occano’s homesites and discover the possibilities.
There’s still time to enjoy the very best of summer at Occano. Whether you’re teeing off, paddling Salmon Creek, or savoring seafood at sunset, our coastal community is ready to welcome you.
📞 Call (252) 482-4006 ext. 409 or book your stay online: www.occano.com/rentals
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.
Enter your email address and we will send you a link to change your password.