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.
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