Excellent opportunity to build your coastal dream home on this exceptional .73-acre waterfront lot in Merritt. Positioned directly on the Bay River with immediate access to the Pamlico Sound, this property offers 184 feet of uninterrupted waterfront and some of the highest waterfront elevation in Pamlico County, sitting approximately 6.5-feet above sea level. Sweeping water views can be enjoyed from nearly any angle of the lot, creating an ideal backdrop for a custom home designed around coastal living. The groundwork is already in place, including county water, an installed septic system, and an underground seawall with bulkhead boulders that provide added stability along the shoreline. The previous home on the property was a 3-bedroom residence, no septic permit is on file. Most of the land lies within the X flood zone, which would not require flood insurance from a lender with the right homesite placement. With no HOA and no restrictive covenants, you have the freedom to build exactly what you envision, whether that includes a large screened porch for watching boats drift by, a saltwater pool overlooking the river, or a spacious workshop or storage shed. For boaters and explorers, the location is unbeatable. This expansive lot provides the space and shoreline access to build your own private dock right in your backyard, allowing you to launch directly onto the Bay River any time you choose. The property is less than 10 minutes from the town of Oriental, where you'll find a public boat ramp, marinas, shops, and waterfront restaurants. Several additional pay-per-launch options are available nearby as well. When you need access to city conveniences, New Bern is an easy 30-minute commute. This rare property offers everything you need to bring your waterfront dream home to life - call today to make it yours!