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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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