Just walking around the village can lower your blood pressure. The trees on South Avenue will give you some shade as you gaze at the old river homes. A few paces down is Lou Mac Park, complete with a couple (locally made) adirondack chairs to take in the scenery.

Wander down to the harbor and it is a very different view. Sailboats from all over the world come and go. The classic fishing trawlers that work the sound make Oriental's harbor home.

Some folks bring a bike, or rent one in the village. It's a good way to take in the town...breathe the air.

Oriental is North Carolina's Sailing Capital - home to over 2,700 sailboats. Local sailing clubs hold races throughout the year. Other sailors prefer cruising, using Oriental as a convenient base for sailing trips to nearby towns like Beaufort or Ocracoke. Some just cruise to a calm bay and enjoy anchoring out for the evening.

While commercial fishing fleets operate out of the harbor, you can enjoy recreational fishing on the waters near Oriental. You can put your fishing boat in at the Wildlife Ramp and try your luck, cast from the shore on South Avenue, or hire one of Oriental's fishing guides to take you out and find the fish.

More people are discovering the creeks in and near Oriental are ideal for kayak and canoe paddling. There is now a place to put your boat in on town property next to the wildlife ramp. You can choose to paddle the protected waters of area creeks, or take on the larger and more challenging Neuse river.

Oriental is home to several motels, inns and bed and breakfasts. Check the directory for accomodations - click here.