Washington State is a golf lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the state boasts a diverse range of golf courses that cater to all skill levels. From picturesque courses with breathtaking views to those with unique features that make each game even more exciting, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best golf courses in Washington State, so you can plan your next golf adventure.
Top Public Golf Courses in Washington State
If you’re a golf enthusiast, then Washington State is the perfect destination for you. With its stunning landscapes, challenging courses, and world-renowned architects, it’s no wonder that the state has become a mecca for golfers from all over the world. Here are five of the top public golf courses that you simply must visit:
Chambers Bay Golf Course
Located in University Place, Chambers Bay Golf Course is a links-style course that was designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course offers breathtaking views of Puget Sound and has been named as the 3rd best public golf course in the US. Golfers who tee off here will be challenged by the course’s layout, which includes the infamous par-4 18th hole. After your game, head to their on-site restaurant, The Grill, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Sound while you grab a bite to eat.
Gamble Sands Golf Course
Opened in 2014, Gamble Sands Golf Course has quickly become a popular destination for golf enthusiasts. Located in Brewster, this course was designed by David McLay Kidd, whose work at Bandon Dunes has been widely regarded in the golfing world. The course’s wide fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and firm greens offer a unique and unforgettable golfing experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Wine Valley Golf Club
Wine Valley Golf Club, located in Walla Walla, is the perfect destination for golfers who love to combine their passion for golf with their love of wine. The course was designed by Dan Hixson and winds its way through a picturesque valley covered with vines producing the region’s famed wines. Golfers who tee off here will appreciate the course’s challenging layout, rolling fairways, and sculpted bunkers. After your game, head to one of the many nearby wineries and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views.
Palouse Ridge Golf Club
If you’re looking for a lively and welcoming golf course, then Palouse Ridge Golf Club is the perfect destination for you. Located in Pullman, WA, this course is part of the Washington State University and was designed by John Harbottle III. Set in the rolling hills of the Palouse region, the course is challenging but fair for all skill levels. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the wheat fields that surround the course while you’re here.
Salish Cliffs Golf Club
Located in Shelton, WA, the Salish Cliffs Golf Club has been praised for its stunning Pacific Northwest views and links-style course. Designed by Gene Bates, this course features beautiful greens and fairways, as well as stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. After your game, head to the on-site restaurant, the House of Seven Brothers, and enjoy a casual dining experience with panoramic views of Little Creek resort and the surrounding region.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your clubs, book your tee times, and get ready for a golfing experience that you’ll never forget!
Best Private Golf Courses in Washington State
Washington State is home to some of the most stunning and challenging golf courses in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a private golf club that will suit your needs. Here are five of the best private golf courses in Washington State:
Sahalee Country Club
Sahalee Country Club is a golfer’s paradise located in the heart of Sammamish. Designed by Ted Robinson Sr., the course offers a perfect balance of playability and challenge. The tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain make for a picturesque round of golf. Sahalee has hosted many world-renowned tournaments, including the 1998 PGA Championship. Members can also enjoy additional amenities like fine dining, tennis, and family events.
Aldarra Golf Club
Aldarra Golf Club, located in Sammamish, is a private, members-only golf club that offers its members a golf experience like no other. Designed by Tom Fazio, the course winds through lush fairways and manicured greens, offering stunning views of the Cascade Mountains in the distance. The course is challenging, but fair, and is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Members can also indulge in additional amenities like fine dining, tennis, and family events.
Tumble Creek Club
Tumble Creek Club is a hidden gem tucked away in the Cascade Mountains. The course, designed by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina, offers a unique golf experience for members with its variety of elevation changes, narrow fairways, and challenging greens. The course is pristine and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Members can also take advantage of the on-site spa and fitness center.
Tacoma Country & Golf Club
Tacoma Country & Golf Club is a links-style golf course located in Lakewood. The course was designed by Arthur Hills and offers beautifully manicured greens with stunning views of Mount Rainier. The course is challenging, but fair, and is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Membership also offers events, fine dining, and spa amenities that members can enjoy.
Learn more about living in Tacoma, WA >
Broadmoor Golf Club
Broadmoor Golf Club, located in Seattle, is a beautiful golf course that winds among trees, turquoise ponds, and sculpted fairways. Designed by renowned architect, William Watson, the course offers varying degrees of challenge, perfect for golfers of all levels. The course is challenging, but fair, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Members can also indulge in delicious dining options and other amenities on this beautiful club property.
Washington State is home to some of the best private golf courses in the country. Whether you’re looking for a challenging round of golf or a relaxing day on the course, these private golf clubs offer something for everyone. With additional amenities like fine dining, tennis, and family events, these clubs are the perfect place to spend time with loved ones and enjoy the beautiful game of golf.
Learn more about living in Madison Park Neighborhood >
Most Scenic Golf Courses in Washington State
Washington State is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic golf courses in the country. From the majestic Cascade Mountains to the stunning Puget Sound, golfers can enjoy breathtaking views while playing on some of the most well-designed courses. Here are some of the most scenic golf courses in Washington State that you should definitely check out.
Loomis Trail Golf Club
Loomis Trail Golf Club is located in Blaine, and features spectacular views of Mount Baker and the Canadian Rockies across the border. Designed by Graham Cooke, this course combines unique terrain and well-manicured greens to offer golfers a truly unforgettable experience.
As you make your way through the course, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful trees and wildlife. The course is also home to several ponds and lakes, which add to the beauty of the landscape. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some bald eagles soaring above the course.
Learn more about living in Blaine, WA >
Gold Mountain Golf Club
This course, designed by John Harbottle III, is located in Bremerton and features stunning views of both the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. The course is split into two sections: the Cascade Course and the Olympic Course. The beauty of the Pacific Northwest adds charm to the spectacular golfing experience that can be enjoyed while playing in one of the courses.
The Cascade Course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains. The Olympic Course, on the other hand, is more forgiving, making it a great option for golfers of all skill levels. Both courses are surrounded by lush forests and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Suncadia Resort
This resort, located in Cle Elum, provides visitors the unique opportunity to golf in the Cascade Mountains. Here, golfers can enjoy playing several nationally recognized courses while marveling at the natural beauty of the region. The resort also offers plenty of accommodations, outdoor activities, and dining options.
The courses at Suncadia Resort are designed by some of the most well-known names in golf course architecture, including Arnold Palmer and Tom Doak. The courses are known for their challenging layouts and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. After a round of golf, you can relax in the resort’s spa or take a dip in the pool while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
White Horse Golf Club
Set amidst acres of beautiful Bainbridge Island farmland, White Horse Golf Club is located in Kingston. Here, golfers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. The golf course, designed by Cynthia Dye, is known to be an easy-to-play destination for any skill level, and its undulating greens and fairways are memorable.
While playing at White Horse Golf Club, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Sound. The course is also home to several ponds and streams, which add to the beauty of the landscape. After a round of golf, you can relax at the clubhouse and enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful views.
Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club
The Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club, located near Blaine, provides a golf experience that’s hard to forget. The course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is breathtaking with its challenging layout and stunning views of Drayton Harbor. The club also offers other amenities like dining and spa options, so you can make the most of your visit here.
As you make your way through the course, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of the water and the mountains. The course is also home to several wildlife species, including bald eagles and deer. After a round of golf, you can relax at the clubhouse and enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful views.
Washington State is truly a golfer’s paradise, with its stunning landscapes and well-designed courses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’re sure to enjoy playing at any of these scenic golf courses.
Golf Courses with Unique Features
Golfing is one of the most popular sports in the world. It’s a game that requires skill, patience, and focus. But what makes golf even more exciting is the unique features that some courses offer. In Washington State, there are plenty of golf courses that offer something different, making them stand out from the rest. Here are some of the best golf courses in Washington that offer unique features.
Desert Canyon Golf Resort
The Desert Canyon Golf Resort, located in Orondo, is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. Designed by Jack Frei, this course is known for its challenging layout, featuring several water features and a narrow fairway. It’s considered one of the most difficult courses in the state of Washington, making it a great challenge for experienced golfers. But it’s not just the course that makes this resort unique. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Home Plate Grill, which offers a delicious range of dishes to satisfy any appetite.
Apple Tree Golf Course
The Apple Tree Golf Course, located in Yakima, is a popular destination for golfers of all levels. The course is designed by John Steidel and is well-groomed, offering an excellent golfing experience. But what makes this course truly unique is the iconic apple-shaped island green on the 17th hole. It’s a sight to behold and has made this course one of the most talked-about in Washington State. After a game, visitors can relax at the 15th hole, where they can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Yakima valley and Mount Adams.
The Home Course
The Home Course, located in DuPont, is a golf course that offers a unique experience for golfers. Designed by renowned architect Mike Asmundson, this 18-hole championship course is built over the former 1500-acre Fort Lewis Army Base. Playing on reclaimed land adds to the unique charm of the venue and makes it a must-visit for any golfer. But what’s even more impressive is that this facility is the perfect example of how building a golf course can help conservation and environmental causes.
Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course
The Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course, located in Chelan, offers golfers a unique combination of natural beauty and a challenging experience. The course is perched high on a mountainside and features an exceptional view of Lake Chelan. Designed by Jack Frei, the course offers golfers the perfect balance of difficulty and playability. It’s a great destination for those who want to enjoy a challenging game of golf while taking in the breathtaking views.
Rope Rider Golf Course
The Rope Rider Golf Course, located in Cle Elum, is part of the Suncadia Resort complex. Designed by Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy, this course blends the traditional with the unexpected, ticking all the boxes on any golf enthusiast’s list. The course features the rugged Rocky Mountains for a backdrop, making it a truly unique experience. It’s a course that offers golfers a challenge while also providing them with an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Washington State is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, and these courses offer something unique to golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a beginner, these courses are sure to provide you with a memorable golfing experience.
Tips for Planning Your Golf Trip in Washington State
If you’re a golf enthusiast, planning a trip to Washington State can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. The state is home to some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country, with breathtaking views, challenging holes, and top-notch amenities. However, planning a golf trip can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. In this guide, we’ll provide you with some tips to help you plan your golf trip to Washington State.
Best Time to Visit
While Washington State is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit for golfing is from late spring to early fall. During this time, the temperatures are mild, and the rainfall is low, making it perfect for golfing. You’ll be able to enjoy the golf courses to the fullest and take in the spectacular views of the state. Plus, with the ample sunshine, you can spend more time on the greens and less time hiding from the rain.
Accommodation Options
When planning your golf trip to Washington State, keep in mind that the state has numerous accommodation options to suit different tastes, budgets, and party sizes. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts and villas or budget inns and hostels, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a full-service golf resort, then Cle Elum and Blaine are good choices. These resorts offer top-notch amenities, such as spas, restaurants, and on-site accommodations.
Transportation and Getting Around
The easiest way to navigate through Washington State is by renting a personal car. However, if you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly option, public transportation is a fantastic choice. You can enjoy train rides and buses without worrying about the hassle and cost of driving. Ride-sharing services and taxis are also available, making it easy to get around the state.
Golf Packages and Deals
Several golf courses in Washington State offer package deals and discounts for large groups or members. These packages can include discounts at the club spa, meal plans and drinks at the on-site restaurant, and reduced rates for on-site accommodations. If you’re traveling with a group, be sure to inquire about group rates and discounts.
Off-the-Course Activities and Attractions
While golfing is the main attraction in Washington State, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to enjoy. Visitors can indulge in hiking trails, kayaking, rafting, whale watching, wine tasting, and experiencing the local cuisine and culture. When planning your golf trip, be sure to take advantage of these activities and attractions. They’ll provide a well-rounded experience and make your trip to Washington State even more memorable.
In Conclusion
Washington State offers some of the most remarkable and diverse golf courses in the country. From the lush greens with scenic views to the narrow fairways with challenging layouts, the courses cater to golfers of all skill levels. However, golf is just one of the many activities that can be enjoyed within the state. With ample mix of off-course activities and attractions, there’s no better time to plan your golf trip to Washington State.