Oriental is known as the sailing capital of North Carolina
Oriental is a laid-back town among tributaries and creeks flowing into the Nuese River, a gateway to the Intracoastal waterway. Often called the "sailing capital of North Carolina," the town boasts sailing clubs, marinas and numerous regattas yearly. "A lot of people discover us through their boating activities. They may be sailors, and they stopped along the way and happened upon this area," says associate broker Suzanne Gwaltney, who lives here and works for Century 21 Sail/Loft Realty. One of nine incorporated areas of Pamlico County, Oriental also draws families to popular summer camps run through the YMCA, where children learn to sail. Some also choose to retire here. The town got its name in the late 19th century from a nameplate found by a former resident that belonged to a steamship that sank off the coast of Cape Hatteras.
Cottages to high-end homes near or on the water
Oriental has early 19th century Victorians and Colonial Revivals and newer ranch styles, coastal cottages and stilt beach homes. Homebuyers can also find established traditional brick homes and custom builds. Lots are spacious and while some properties front tributaries and creeks others are on the river. High-end riverside homes have docks long enough to host multiple boats. The median sale price in Oriental is $475,000. Price ranges begin at around $220,000 to $500,000 but head upwards of $960,0000 with added luxuries and a coveted location.
Public schools and summer camp fun
Students attend Pamlico County Schools. Pamlico County Primary Elementary School earns a B plus on Niche. Pamlico County Middle School scores a B rating. Pamlico County High School, the only high school in the county, maintains a B minus. First through fifth graders can attend co-ed summer camps at a discounted rate through Camp Seagull and Camp Seafarer. The camps integrate water sports, crafts and lessons on core values. Both are within 12 miles of Oriental.
Inland fun at local parks and days out on the water
The Neuse River is one of the widest in the United States, with channel depths ranging from 8 to 12 feet. The town hosts multiple regattas annually, including The Oriental Cup Regatta, organized by local sailing clubs to fund youth sailing. Located where the river opens into Pamlico Sound, Oriental Harbor Village Marina is one of several spots to dock and store boats. Pamlico Sound, a large lagoon, is known for its shallower, calmer waters that draw in kayakers and windsurfers. Locals stop by Lou Mac Park to fish on the pier, enjoy the view from Adirondack chairs, and walk the community mandala donated by the Oriental United Methodist Church. John Bond Town Beach gives locals a stretch of sand to lounge on and swim from. Edward D. Lupton Park has a tennis court and playground. Pups play at Oriental Dog Park.
Family-owned restaurants and some shopping in town
Oriental's commercial options are almost entirely locally owned. The Silos Restaurant is a popular spot for Italian fare and live shows. "They have outdoor entertainment with concerts, all kinds of musical performances because the guy who owns it is a musician," Gwaltney says. The Bean sells specialty brews, bagels and other baked goods. Toucan Grill & Fresh Bar is on the water, serving burgers and locally caught seafood with a view. Oriental has several marine supply stores, hardware and bait stores, and clothing stores. Piggly Wiggly is in town for groceries.
Festivals and live music bring people together in Oriental
Locals can tour their history at the Oriental History Museum and catch a live performance at The Old Theatre, established in 1945. The Ol Front Porch Musical Festival rolls around in October, featuring bands and solo artists versed bluegrass, jazz, gospel and other genres. Performers not only play on the main Riverfront Stage but also on front porches across town.
Commuter options, including a free ferry
Broad Street is Oriental's main thoroughfare. It's around 11 miles to the Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach Ferry, which leads over the river to Cherry Branch, home to the Marine Corps Air Station, where some residents work.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
