ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
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Course Report
This course has been named Louisiana’s #1 course in Golfweek’s Best of 2021, praised for its combination of resort luxury and superior golf experience.
About
The Country Club at The Golden Nugget, designed by Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design, is a modern resort course bordering the bayou in Lake Charles. Opened in 2015, it features open fairways, manicured Bermuda greens, captivating native marsh views, and first-rate amenities. It’s consistently ranked among Louisiana’s best courses and provides an entertaining, challenging layout for all skill levels.
Caddie Tip
Bring plenty of golf balls and pay close attention to the shifting winds off the bayou, especially on the finishing holes. Many greens are subtly contoured; favor approach shots below the hole, and use the chipping areas creatively. Consider aiming for the wider portions of fairways, as several holes punish overly aggressive driving lines.
The Main Challenge
The primary challenge at The Country Club at The Golden Nugget is its strong coastal winds and multiple holes bordered by water or marsh, making accurate drives and smart club choices vital. The greens are subtle yet quick, rewarding precision and creative shot-making, especially on the finishing stretch where hazards can catch even seemingly safe approaches.
The Good
Golfers rave about the outstanding course conditions, wonderfully maintained greens, and beautiful marsh scenery. The sense of openness, combined with resort-quality amenities like plush locker rooms, a top-tier restaurant, and helpful service, creates a memorable, relaxing golf experience. The course’s layout allows golfers of all skill levels to enjoy themselves while feeling challenged.
The Not So Good
Some guests wish for upgraded golf carts, including the addition of GPS units, as well as improved replenishment of sand in carts for divot repair. While the staff is generally friendly, the pro shop service can be inconsistent at peak times, and the pace can slow during busy periods, especially on weekends.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The closing hole, a par 4 with water guarding the left side and the clubhouse as an inviting backdrop, is considered the signature finisher. Players face a demanding drive and an approach to an elevated green that emphasizes accuracy, with scenic marshland and views of the resort framing the hole for a memorable end.
Clubhouse
Golfers will find an upscale clubhouse with plush locker rooms, a comprehensive pro shop, and the Chart House restaurant overlooking the course and water. Lounge areas, friendly staff service, and regularly cleaned facilities (including air-conditioned restrooms on course), enhance the overall experience.
Practice Facilities
The club boasts a well-maintained driving range and short game area, along with professional instruction available. Golfers can warm up before their rounds with a full-service practice area including putting and chipping greens. The clubhouse features large, comfortable locker rooms, a fully stocked pro shop, and the acclaimed Chart House restaurant with scenic views and varied menu.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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