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/
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.
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.
At Occano, the excitement is even greater as new home builders have the opportunity to create their dream houses on newly open lots. Of the seven available lots, two are nestled along the waterfront, while another two offer stunning views of the golf course. This unique setting offers a rare chance to be part of a growing, vibrant community while enjoying the charm and history of Edenton. With beautiful landscapes and a supportive community atmosphere, building a home at Occano is not just about constructing a house; it’s about establishing a lifestyle in a picturesque and welcoming environment. Occano provides a selection of qualified builders, but you also have the flexibility to choose your own. Additionally, spec homes are available, providing a perfect source of inspiration for anyone envisioning their dream home in this community. Don't miss the chance to build your dream home and embrace the exceptional lifestyle that Occano has to offer.
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