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!
What It Means for Visitors, Homeowners, and the Growth of Our Region.
We’re excited to share that Bertie County is taking a significant step toward enhancing tourism and supporting local economic development with the formation of its first-ever Tourism Development Authority (TDA). Beginning September 1, 2025, a county-wide occupancy tax will also go into effect, aimed at funding marketing and infrastructure that promote Bertie County as a travel destination.
The new occupancy tax applies to short-term rentals and lodging accommodations across the county, including those in and around Occano. Funds generated will be directed by the TDA to elevate tourism initiatives, attract new visitors, and support projects that benefit both residents and businesses.
For Occano guests booking a golf getaway, waterfront vacation, or retreat in one of our homes or cottages, this means a small additional 6% charge on your stay, which goes directly back into making Bertie County a more vibrant and well-supported destination.
As a community, we’re excited to see the county investing in its long-term growth and visibility. With its scenic waterfront, hunting preserves, outdoor recreation attractions, and hidden gems like Occano's Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course, Bertie County is primed to become a top-tier destination for travelers.
Stay tuned for more updates as the TDA begins its work, and as always, we look forward to welcoming you to Occano—where the beauty of the Inner Banks meets unforgettable hospitality.
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/
The Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course at Occano is a stunning testament to the legendary golfer's architectural brilliance. Nestled within the serene landscape of North Carolina’s coastal region, this 18-hole championship course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings, the course features rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that enhance its beauty and difficulty.
In 2009 Occano was a ninth-place finisher in Golf Digest’s Best New survey under its first name (Innsbrook Golf and Boat Club). In 2022, the course underwent an extensive remodel that took the bunkers in a dramatic new direction and included the expansion and recontouring of the greens and green surrounds. In 2024, Golf Digest listed the course as one of the best public courses in North Carolina. The overall layout reflects Palmer’s vision of creating a course that is both playable and aesthetically captivating, making it a top destination for golfers looking to enjoy world-class facilities in a scenic environment.
What truly sets the Arnold Palmer Golf Course at Occano apart is its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to preserving the area's natural beauty. Golfers can enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby coastline as they navigate through the well-manicured greens and fairways. The course offers a variety of holes that are challenging, requiring players to balance risk and reward with each shot. Whether it’s the sweeping vistas, the challenge of the design, or the prestige of playing on a Palmer course, Occano provides a memorable golfing experience that echoes the legacy of one of the sport’s greatest icons.
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105 Scotch Hall Court, Merry Hill, NC 27957
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