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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 thrilled to announce that Occano has been ranked among the Top 10 public golf courses in North Carolina, according to the 2025 North Carolina Golf Panel rankings! This prestigious recognition places us firmly among the state’s elite, highlighting our commitment to exceptional playing conditions, course design, and overall golfer experience.
The North Carolina Golf Panel is a trusted authority made up of seasoned golf writers, industry pros, and tournament players. Their annual rankings are highly respected and based on thorough, unbiased evaluations of public-access courses across the state. Being included in their Top 10 is a mark of excellence and a testament to Occano’s dedication to quality.
Stunning Design & Layout: Our greens, fairways, and landscape are crafted to challenge and inspire golfers of all levels.
Impeccable Course Conditions: Consistent maintenance and attention to detail ensure top-tier turf health and playability year-round.
Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff: Our team goes above and beyond to ensure every round is pleasant and memorable.
We’re honored by this recognition—and dedicated to continuing the momentum. We’re already planning enhancements to make your future visits even more enjoyable -- including events and promotions for both local and visiting golfers! We deeply appreciate our loyal golfers—you’re the reason for this achievement. Your rounds, feedback, and enthusiasm make us what we are today.
Curious about the full Top 60 list of North Carolina public courses? Check it out here:
➡️ View the full list on the NC Golf Panel site
Again, thank you to the NC Golf Panel and to everyone who makes Occano a premier golf destination. We can’t wait to welcome you back for your next exceptional round!
Enter your email address and we will send you a link to change your password.