Six creeks and the Neuse River surround Oriental, N.C. This watery beauty means marinas, sailing schools, marine services, fishing guides, marine supplies, boat rentals, charter services and great seafood restaurants dot the the county. Fishing trawlers still leave the harbors weekly and come back with loads of fresh seafood, and Oriental Harbor hosts hordes of transient sailors stopping by for a break from navigating the Intracoastal Waterway.
Oriental's waterfront Lou-Mac Park is the center of the community, hosting the annual Croaker Festival fund-raiser, the Spirit of Christmas caroling and boat parade, fine art and craft shows, local chili and chowder cooking contests, impromptu music-making, fishing from the pier, beauty pageants for people and dogs and summer outdoor church services open to any passer-by. The Visitor Center in the county seat, Bayboro, and the Fossil Museum in Aurora provide interactive history and unique learning fun for all ages.
Visitors to Pamlico County comment on the relaxed pace, the friendly greetings and the time nearly everyone takes for appreciation of quiet beauty. We think you'll like it too.
