Oriental, NC - River Dunes Marina is the nicest marina so far.

We are enjoying River Dunes Marina. This new development of homes, clubhouse and marina is nothing less than gorgeous. There is a pool and two spas, spotless new bathrooms (yes!), bikes to borrow and more. They are trying to showcase, so the marina price is extremely low, $1 per foot until June 1st. Luxury and relaxation are not something we have seen often on this trip so we have decided to stay another day.

The entrance to River Dunes is impressive. The channel is lined with beautiful traditional homes.

Pretty nice clubhouse, eh? (We have been hanging out with Wayne and Ruth from Canada.)

The homes have porches in the front overlooking the harbor and in the back as well.

Many of the homes back up to the river.

Ruth with Mike and Keenan Samway. Keenan and his sister (12 & 11) are traveling on the Loop with their parents. They are from Miami Beach, FL.





Wayne had never played pool. Jim is enjoying giving Wayne instructions.

The clubhouse is so well done. The decorating and furnishings were well thought out. The light fixtures are all antique with updates to electricity. The side lamps are kerosene lamps electrified.

Bet this boat could tell some good stories!

Check out the dinghies outside the Marine Consignment Store. They also have a storage shed where they have more marine "stuff".

The town of Oriental has been hailed as the sailing base of the South. We found a marine consignment shop that was packed full of goodies. We bought a few chart books (we sure need more of those!!! ha!) and some other parts. We used the courtesy car from the Marina and only had about an hour to shop. Good thing we didn't have more time or who knows what we would have found! Fortunately there was a grocery store nearby as well.