Some moments shape a place forever. For Occano—then known as Innsbrook—that moment came on May 9, 2008, when the legendary Arnold Palmer arrived to personally inaugurate the community’s new 18-hole championship golf course.
The community now known as Occano was inspired by the untouched beauty of Bertie County’s Inner Banks. Surrounded by Salmon Creek, the Albemarle Sound, and the Black Walnut Swamp, the land offered rare potential—quiet, scenic, and deeply connected to nature.
The plan was ambitious: a high-end golf and boating community that blended modern living with ecological harmony, while bringing jobs, tourism, and long-term economic growth to the region.
At first, some locals were skeptical. But as hills were sculpted, lakes formed, and wildlife returned—seagulls, swans, hawks—it became clear the land wasn’t being compromised. It was being enhanced.
At the heart of the project was a championship golf course designed by the Arnold Palmer Design Company. Defined by elevation changes, wide fairways, and panoramic water views, the course quickly earned recognition as one of the most beautiful layouts in the region—even before its official opening.
Then came the moment that cemented its place in history.
On a spring day in 2008, Arnold Palmer arrived not for a ribbon-cutting, but to play the course himself.
At 78 years old, “The King” teed it up as a large crowd followed him across multiple holes, watching closely as he navigated the course he helped bring to life. Despite his age, Palmer still displayed flashes of the confidence, charisma, and shot-making brilliance that made him one of the most beloved figures in golf history.
It was not a ceremonial appearance. It was authentic, personal, and unforgettable.
Following the round, the day unfolded into a true community celebration. Tents were raised, food was shared, and conversations flowed as residents, media, and local leaders gathered to mark the occasion.
County officials and regional leaders recognized the significance of the moment—not just as the opening of a golf course, but as a symbol of Bertie County’s potential. The project promised to strengthen the local economy, bring new jobs and tourism, and preserve the natural landscape that made the area special.
That day in 2008 marked the beginning of a legacy—one personally launched by Arnold Palmer himself. Today, as the community has evolved into Occano, that legacy remains central to its identity. From the course’s original design to its thoughtful restoration in partnership with the Arnold Palmer Design Company, the spirit of that opening day continues to guide the future.
Not every course can say Arnold Palmer stood on its fairways, played its holes, and introduced it to the world -- but Occano can.
Experience Occano today.
At Occano, the golf course was never meant to be an accessory. It was meant to set the standard.
That belief is why earning—and preserving—the designation of an Arnold Palmer Signature Designed Course has always mattered here. Not as a label, but as a responsibility to uphold a legacy rooted in respect for the land, the game, and the people who experience it.
Arnold Palmer–designed courses around the world share a common foundation: a deep respect and love for the earth, for golf, and for those who play it. Step onto a Palmer-designed course, and you’re stepping into a legacy shaped by thoughtful design and enduring values.
Through the Arnold Palmer Design Company (APDC), hundreds of award-winning courses have been created across 37 U.S. states and 25 countries. No matter the environment, APDC followed Mr. Palmer’s approach—designing courses that are respected, responsible, and built to endure. Occano proudly stands among this global community.
More Than a Name: True Signature DesignAn Arnold Palmer Signature Designed Course means the course was designed and crafted by Arnold Palmer, through his direct involvement and leadership of the Arnold Palmer Design Company. It reflects his personal vision, design philosophy, and final approval—ensuring every aspect of the layout carries his unmistakable imprint.
This designation is not “inspired by” or loosely affiliated. From early land-use planning to detailed construction documents and on-site supervision, Signature courses were shaped under Palmer’s watchful eye. He worked closely with his design team—shaping routing, influencing hole strategy, and refining the details of each hole—to deliver courses that are challenging, fair, and enduring.
Arnold Palmer believed golf should be challenging yet fair, rewarding thoughtful decisions while remaining enjoyable for players of all skill levels. Signature courses embody that belief through wide, confident fairways, strategic bunkering, and green complexes that encourage creativity rather than intimidation.
Power alone was never the point. Strategy, adaptability, and confidence were. That philosophy defines the experience at Occano—where every round feels engaging, re-playable, and true to the spirit of the game.
Occano’s course was shaped to embrace the natural beauty of Bertie County’s Inner Banks, where Salmon Creek, the Albemarle Sound, and the Black Walnut Swamp define the landscape.
Rather than forcing the land to conform to the game, the design enhances what already exists. Elevation changes, sweeping water views, and native ecosystems were thoughtfully integrated, creating a course that feels organic, intentional, and distinctly coastal. This respect for the land reflects one of Palmer’s core principles: great golf should leave a place better than it found it.
That approach has earned lasting recognition. Shortly after opening, Occano’s Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course placed ninth in Golf Digest’s Best New survey, immediately establishing itself as a standout.
More recently, the course has been ranked among the Top 10 courses in North Carolina and Top 3 in Eastern North Carolina by the North Carolina Golf Panel—an affirmation of the course’s enduring quality and thoughtful design.
When current ownership acquired the property in 2021, one priority stood above all others: restore the course to pristine condition while honoring Arnold Palmer’s original vision. Occano partnered directly with the Arnold Palmer Design Company, drawing on their deep expertise not only in design, but also in long-term stewardship, operations, and brand integrity.
Arnold Palmer’s name on a course is a mark of excellence—but it also means being part of a bigger story. Guided by the principles of the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation, Signature courses contribute to a legacy focused on improving both the planet and the lives of the people on it. At Occano, that responsibility is embraced with pride.
The Arnold Palmer Signature Designed Course is the heart of Occano—where global legacy meets coastal character, and thoughtful design creates unforgettable experiences.
To play here is to step into something enduring. A course shaped by respect. A legacy meant to last.
Experience Occano today.
Dreaming of coastal living where the water meets world-class golf, historic charm, and small-town Southern hospitality? At Occano, that dream becomes a reality — and with our Real Estate Discovery Tour, you can experience it firsthand.
Our Discovery Tours are thoughtfully designed for homebuyers who want more than a brochure — they want to feel life in this one-of-a-kind community on the Albemarle Sound. Whether you’re envisioning a second home, retirement lifestyle, or year-round residence, this curated visit gives you a true taste of what life at Occano feels like.
Each Discovery Tour package immerses you in the key elements that make Occano so special. Your experience includes:
Two nights’ accommodations — stay in an Occano cottage or a charming Edenton Bed & Breakfast (based on availability)
One round of golf for two — enjoy a morning on the award-winning Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course
Edenton Trolley Tour for two — explore the historic streets and stories of nearby Edenton
$75 gift certificate for The Herringbone On The Waterfront — savor local flavors with a scenic dinner
Personal residential tour with an Occano Community Sales Manager — see homesites and discover available options
Limited availability — these tours are offered in small numbers to ensure a personalized experience
A Discovery Tour isn’t just a visit — it’s an invitation to step into the lifestyle you’ve been imagining. From sunrise walks along the sound to afternoons on the golf course, you’ll see what makes Occano’s coastal community so special.
Whether you’re curious about design possibilities, want to explore our future home sites, or just want a weekend escape with purpose, this tour lets you do it all with expert guidance and local insight.
Ready to experience Occano like it’s already yours?
👉 Reserve your Real Estate Discovery Tour here: https://www.occano.com/discovery-tour/
After several years of headwinds in the housing market, experts are signaling a strong rebound on the horizon — and now is an exciting time for prospective homebuyers and custom-home builders alike.
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), home sales nationwide are expected to jump about 14% in 2026, building on the stagnation seen in 2025. Chief Economist Lawrence Yun says this anticipated upswing comes as mortgage rates begin to ease and buyer confidence strengthens, sparking renewed activity across the market. New-home sales are also projected to rise around 5% next year — opening more opportunities for buyers seeking fresh starts and custom builds. Read the full article here: https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/economy/housing-market-set-for-a-2026-comeback-nar-predicts
With demand heating up, there’s never been a better moment to start building the coastal home you’ve always imagined. Whether you’re ready to choose a beautifully crafted, move-in ready home or want to design your dream residence from the ground up, the coming market rebound offers an ideal backdrop for your plans.
That’s where Occano stands apart.
Our community presents an exceptional range of developer lots — perfect for capturing that unique blend of nature, luxury, and lifestyle:
Enjoy expansive water views, gentle breezes, and direct access to one of the East Coast’s largest estuaries. Imagine starting each day with peaceful waterfront views right from your doorstep.
Occano’s land rests at a higher elevation than many coastal properties in the region, providing breathtaking sound vistas and a natural buffer against rising tides.
Select homesites overlook serene pond landscapes — the ideal setting for tranquility and reflection.
Build alongside the award-winning Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course, where lush fairways and rolling greens will be part of your everyday scenic backdrop.
Now is the time to make your move. With housing demand expected to grow in 2026, securing a custom homesite at Occano positions you to benefit from both lifestyle and long-term value.
Let our experienced sales team guide you toward the path that best fits your vision. Whether that’s a custom-designed retreat or selecting one of our ready-to-build lots, we’re here to help you embrace coastal living at its finest.
Discover what makes Occano so special — visit our website for current listings or to schedule a discovery visit today:
👉 https://www.occano.com/real-estate/
Let’s build the home you’ve always wanted — right where stunning water views meet elevated coastal luxury.
While much of the country packs away their clubs for winter, something different happens on the North Carolina coast. At Occano, winter isn’t the end of golf season — it’s one of its best chapters.
Cooler air, quiet fairways, and wide-open tee sheets create a version of the game that’s hard to find during the busier months. If you’ve never experienced coastal golf in the winter, you’re missing one of the best-kept secrets in the Carolinas.
Winter golf has a rhythm all its own. The ball travels farther in cool, dense air. Greens hold beautifully. And instead of dodging foursomes, you’ll often feel like the Arnold Palmer Signature Course was built just for you.
At Occano, winter means:
Faster rounds with minimal wait times
Uninterrupted views of the Albemarle Sound
Pristine playing conditions thanks to lower traffic
Quiet moments to truly enjoy the course design
It’s golf in its most relaxed and rewarding form.
Unlike much of the country, North Carolina - and specifically the Inner Banks - enjoy relatively mild winters. Many days bring sunshine, low humidity, and temperatures perfect for layering up and teeing off. It’s not unusual to be playing in a light pullover while others are scraping ice off their windshields.
When the wind is calm and the sky is clear, Occano in winter is nothing short of magical.
Without the bustle of peak season, winter reveals a different side of Occano. You’ll notice the contours of the fairways, the way the light hits the Sound, and the strategy behind every hole. It’s peaceful, reflective, and surprisingly addictive.
For many of our members and guests, winter golf becomes a tradition — a chance to enjoy the course the way it was meant to be played.
One of the best parts of winter at Occano? Pairing great golf with a great stay. Our on-site rental homes and cottages make it easy to turn a quick round into a weekend retreat. Play in the morning, relax by the fire in the evening, and wake up ready to do it again.
Whether you’re escaping colder climates or simply rediscovering your favorite course, Occano delivers a winter experience that feels like a private club — without the crowds.
Golf doesn’t stop when the temperature drops — it just gets better. Fewer distractions. Better pace of play. And a course that shines in every season.
So bundle up, grab your clubs, and come experience why winter at Occano might just become your favorite time to play.
Tee times are waiting. The fairways are calling. We’ll see you out here.
If you caught Cary Magazine’s recent feature on Edenton — “Escape to Edenton: Coastal Charm on the Inner Banks” — you know why travelers are falling in love with this historic North Carolina treasure. With centuries-old architecture, quaint downtown streets, lively local shops and eateries, scenic waterfront views and trolley tours that bring the past to life, Edenton has quickly become one of the state’s most captivating small-town destinations.
From the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center to the Georgian elegance of the Cupola House and the charming Broad Street dining scene, Edenton invites visitors to slow down and savor every moment. Whether you’re browsing the Edenton Tea Company, catching a show at the Taylor Theater, or simply enjoying golden hour over Edenton Bay, this town effortlessly blends historic character with contemporary appeal.
After reading the Cary Magazine feature and planning your visit, don’t forget to add Occano to your travel list.
Located just 20 minutes from historic Edenton, Occano offers a relaxing coastal retreat with world-class amenities, including our Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course — a must-play experience for golf lovers of all skill levels. Whether you’re extending your getaway with a round of golf, exploring coastal nature trails, or simply unwinding in scenic surroundings, Occano is the perfect complement to your Edenton adventure.
Why stop at one great destination when you can enjoy them both? Edenton’s rich history and vibrant culture paired with Occano’s coastal charm make for an unforgettable itinerary.
Plan your trip today — and make memories from the Inner Banks to the beautiful North Carolina coast.
Read the Edenton feature in Cary Magazine here: https://www.carymagazine.com/features/escape-to-edenton/
Book your stay at Occano here: https://www.occano.com/stay/
As the holiday season arrives, many travelers are looking for something a little different — a place to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy time well spent. Winter on North Carolina’s Inner Banks offers just that, and Occano is the perfect destination for a peaceful coastal escape paired with exceptional golf.
Winter is one of the best-kept secrets along the Inner Banks. Cooler temperatures, open skies, and quieter surroundings create an ideal setting to explore the coast at your own pace. Without the summer crowds, guests can enjoy scenic drives, waterfront views, and the simple luxury of space and stillness.
Occano is located just 20 minutes from historic Edenton, making it easy to pair your stay with a visit to one of North Carolina’s most charming towns. Winter is an especially lovely time to explore Edenton’s brick-lined streets, historic homes, waterfront parks, local shops, and restaurants — all at a relaxed, unhurried pace.
Our Stay & Play options make winter getaways effortless. Guests enjoy comfortable onsite accommodations paired with access to our Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course, creating a seamless golf-focused retreat without the need to travel far.
Winter golf at Occano means peaceful fairways, quicker rounds, and crisp coastal air — ideal conditions for enjoying the course as it was designed to be played. Whether you’re planning a holiday escape, a long weekend, or a mid-winter reset, Stay & Play allows you to settle in, tee off, and truly unwind.
Thanks to our mild coastal climate, golf at Occano is a year-round experience. The winter months offer a quieter atmosphere on the course, giving golfers the chance to fully appreciate the strategy, scenery, and natural beauty of our Arnold Palmer Signature design.
After your round, warm up with a meal at The Grill at Salmon Creek, take in views of the surrounding landscape, or head into Edenton for an afternoon of history, shopping, and dining — all without peak-season crowds.
As we celebrate the holidays and look ahead to 2026, we’re excited for another year filled with new golf adventures, memorable rounds, and time well spent on the course. Winter is the perfect season to experience Occano at a slower pace — where coastal calm, great golf, and historic charm come together.
This holiday season, trade the crowds for calm and make Occano your winter golf getaway.
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.
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.
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