Whether the skies are clear or clouds are looming, Washington State offers golf enthusiasts a remarkable array of public courses that promise an extraordinary round come rain or shine. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 iconic courses across the Evergreen State, each boasting unique landscapes and challenging layouts.
1) Chambers Bay Golf Course – University Place
Known for hosting the 2015 U.S. Open, this stunning links-style course offers panoramic views of Puget Sound.
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the water, Chambers Bay masterfully blends rugged natural beauty with expertly crafted links-style golf. Its expansive fairways sweep along windswept dunes, offering players a test of precision and a feast for the eyes. The unpredictable Pacific Northwest weather ensures every round is memorable.
| Feature | Highlight |
| Length | 7,585 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Signature Hole | 15th (Lone Fir tree backdrop) |
2) The Home Course – DuPont
A premier public championship layout that serves as the home for Washington golf amateurs.
Often paired with Chambers Bay for USGA events, The Home Course offers a walkable, links-style layout with views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. It’s known for being one of the best-maintained public tracks in the state, offering a “pro” experience at a municipal price point.
3) Gold Mountain Golf Club – Bremerton
Boasting two championship courses, Olympic and Cascades, amidst scenic woodland vistas.
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Nestled in the lush forests of Bremerton, Gold Mountain offers a dual experience. The Olympic Course is a nationally ranked masterpiece carved into the timber, while the Cascades Course offers a slightly more forgiving but equally beautiful woodland trek.
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Olympic Course: A demanding layout featuring long carries and tight doglegs.
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Cascades Course: A very walkable track with water features and elevated greens.
4) The Golf Club at Newcastle – Newcastle
Perched on a bluff with views of Mount Rainier and the Seattle skyline.
Just outside Seattle, Newcastle features two courses: Coal Creek (the premier championship track) and China Creek. It is famous for its “Bagpiper at Sunset” tradition and its 44,000-square-foot clubhouse that feels like a castle overlooking the city.
5) Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club – Blaine
A picturesque Arnold Palmer design featuring coastal breezes and resort-style play.
Located steps from the Canadian border, this semi-private course is open to public play for guests of the Semiahmoo Resort. Each hole offers a unique challenge shaped by gently rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers that test every skill level.
| Feature | Details |
| Architect | Arnold Palmer |
| Type | Semi-Private (Resort Access) |
| Greens | Fast and Undulating |
6) Willows Run Golf Complex – Redmond
A versatile spot with two 18-hole courses catering to all skill levels.
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Set in the tech hub of Redmond, this complex features Eagle Talon and Coyote Creek. Thanks to excellent drainage systems, these courses remain playable during Washington’s frequent rain, making it a reliable year-round destination.
7) Washington National Golf Club – Auburn
The home of the University of Washington golf teams, known for its “Husky” pride and grit.
This John Fought design is themed around the UW Huskies. It features a rugged, parkland layout with white sand bunkers and massive fairways. It’s engineered to endure varied weather, ensuring a consistently excellent playing surface.
| Feature | Details |
| Length | 7,301 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Signature Hole | 18th (Bunker-guarded finish) |
8) Foster Golf Links – Tukwila
A historic course south of Seattle that offers a fun, engaging round for all levels.
Located on the banks of the Duwamish River, Foster Golf Links is a local favorite for its accessibility and friendly atmosphere. With tight fairways and small greens, it requires a “short game” focus that rewards accuracy over power.
9) The Golf Club at Echo Falls – Snohomish
A championship course with rolling hills and a famous island green.
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Echo Falls delivers a dynamic experience with vibrant landscapes and native flora. Its island green on the 18th hole is one of the most exciting finishes in the region, requiring a “sink or swim” approach that challenges your nerves.
10) Salish Cliffs Golf Club – Shelton
A world-class resort course tucked into the trees of the Kamilche Valley.
Managed by the Little Creek Casino Resort, Salish Cliffs is an award-winning parkland course that offers total seclusion. Every hole is private, meaning you won’t see another group once you leave the tee.
| Feature | Description |
| Course Type | Forest / Parkland |
| Total Elevation | 600 feet of change |
| Amenities | Luxury Clubhouse & GPS Carts |
Insights and Conclusions
From the coastal dunes of University Place to the evergreen cathedrals of Bremerton, Washington’s public golf courses offer a journey through the best of the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let a little drizzle stop you—these courses are built for year-round play.
