Tucked away on a protected deep-water harbor off of Pamlico Sound in Oriental, North Carolina, boaters will find one of the state’s most renowned coastal communities: River Dunes, part of the Palm Hill group of award-winning residential and commercial properties. Covering more than 28 acres, the marina at River Dunes provides transient boaters convenient access to the ICW, as the protected entrance channel opens directly into the natural, deep-water Broad Creek. The 124-slip inland basin marina accommodates vessels up to 150 feet and is outfitted with floating docks with full-length finger piers.
As initial planning for the marina commenced, three elements were paramount to the developers: preserving the surrounding environment and habitat throughout construction, using the location’s landscape to create a protected port to ensure boater safety, and elevating boaters’ experiences with a first-rate marina with exceptional amenities. When the community launched in 2006, all three of these goals had been achieved.
Ed Mitchell, River Dunes’ President, says, “Although a marina is a place to house your boat, River Dunes is much more than that. We offer a destination marina that focuses on enhancing the boater lifestyle.
Laser-focused on providing high-quality conveniences to both members and visitors, River Dunes has only improved its amenities over the years. It’s much-loved, award-winning Harbor Club is about to hit its tenth anniversary with dining, event space, library, reside hot tubs, pool and cabana bar. A new 4,000 square foot Fitness and Wellness Center overlooks the marina with a fitness area, saunas, steam rooms and boutique spa. e exceptional Dining Room at the Club offers seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. River Dunes also boasts several fully furnished cottages — complete with spa-like bathrooms, inviting living areas, and gourmet kitchens — for visitors attending corporate gatherings or weddings, or for boaters who simply want to take a break from the stateroom.
Guests at River Dunes frequently visit nearby downtown Oriental, just a short 10-minute drive away via the marina’s courtesy car, and a vibrant waterfront town where sailboats outnumber residents three to one. Popular attractions include The Old Theater — originally a movie theater, now transformed into a performing arts center — and the Oriental History Museum, which is full of maritime artifacts and classic memorabilia.
As you work your way up the ICW this spring, tie up at River Dunes for a chance to experience this one-of-a-kind, top-notch boating community.
