Ultimate Golf Getaway in Southwest Louisiana: Premier Courses, Fishing, Casinos & Cajun Dining
By Glen Turk
Golfing, Gambling, Fishing, and Dining Combine to Create a Memorable Trip
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The essence of a great golf trip lies in its diverse experiences beyond the fairways. Even avid golfers cherish the adventures in between shots. Lake Charles, LA—a city of 120,000 just 3 hours from Houston and 4 hours from New Orleans—delivers exactly that. In late April, a group of golf writers from across the U.S. and Canada enjoyed a four-day extravaganza of golf, gaming, fishing, and fine dining. Here's a recap of our action-packed journey through bayou country.
Day one started at Lake Charles Regional Airport, offering direct flights from Houston and Dallas for easy, affordable access. We headed to Mallard Cove Golf Course, a municipal gem on the former Chennault Air Force Base. This 7,015-yard layout, opened in 1976, offers sporty play at budget prices—never more than $40. Water hazards challenge every club, especially the signature 563-yard par-5 18th.
Mallard Cove Golf Course
PGA Professional Derek Smith shares memorable tales from his pro shop, like this from former World Long Drive Champion Brian Pavlet: "Memorial Day weekend in 2000, at Mallard Cove's charity pro-am, the 540-yard par-5 18th had forward tees. I carried 390 yards over the swamp, landed short of the green, bounced on, and drained a 12-15 foot putt for a double eagle." For details, visit www.cityoflakecharles.com or call (337) 491-1204.
Day two's fishing charter with Capt. Eric Rue's Calcasieu Charter Service was a highlight—no golf needed. Eric's stay-and-play packages at www.calcasieucharters.com include lodging and access to Gray Plantation or Contraband Bayou. Our group landed 14 redfish, later savored at Seafood Palace alongside appetizers like Pistollettes, Crawfish Pies, Fried Alligator, and deep-fried boudin balls.
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Next, National Golf Club of Louisiana at Westlake impressed with its non-Louisiana vibe. Director of Golf Ron Brown notes: "Players often compare it to Pinehurst. They love the look, service, and consistent quality." This 6,946-yard Dave Bennett design demands precision and builds drama. Brown's favorite: the risk-reward par-5 17th. Visit www.nationalgcla.com or call (337) 433-2255 for info on the course and upscale community.
National Golf Club of Louisiana
Tom Fazio's Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L'Auberge Casino Resort (7,077 yards, opened 2005) complements its Las Vegas-rivaling resort. Director of Resort Services Bill Belcher says: "Fazio visualizes and shapes earth masterfully—a fun, scalable challenge." Holes 8-15 form an elite stretch with varied par-3s, par-4s, and par-5s; the 15th is the toughest. Explore stay-and-play, pool, spa, and dining at www.lakecharles.com or call (337) 395-7777.
Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L'Auberge Casino Resort
Our trip closed at Gray Plantation, a Golf Digest Top 100 Public Course. The 7,200-yard Rocky Roquemore design and Golf Academy shine. Director Kevin Tracy explains: "Our tech-advanced academy, with three Class A PGA pros, offers personalized improvement." A charter Audubon Golf Trail member, it showcases bayou beauty along the Calcasieu River, with four stellar par-3s over water. Visit www.graywoodllc.com or call (337) 562-1663.
Gray Plantation
This bayou escape cured spring blues. Whether playing 54 or 9 holes daily, Lake Charles never disappoints. Plan your trip at www.visitlakecharles.org.
Where to Stay and Dine in Lake Charles, LA
L'Auberge Casino Resort: Vegas-level luxury with pool and gaming. (866) 580-7444
Darrell's: Unique po'boys and subs. 119 W College St. (337) 474-3651
Mazen's Mediterranean: Cajun-Mediterranean fusion. 217 W College St. (337) 477-8207
Seafood Palace: Fresh seafood, crawfish, alligator. 2218 Enterprise Blvd. (337) 433-9293
Ember Grille & Wine Bar (L'Auberge): Premium steaks, Kobe, grass-fed beef. (337) 395-7565
More to Do:
Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail: Sample Cajun sausage at local spots.
Calcasieu Charter Service: Custom fishing, hunting, golf packages. 210 Bank St., Big Lake. (337) 598-4700
