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.
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.
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