Highlands Golf Course
Highlands Golf Course in Tacoma delivers a thoughtfully maintained 18-hole par 3 experience, blending precision golf with approachable design. With recent course enhancements and a refreshed clubhouse café, it offers great value and variety for players of all skill levels.
Course Overview
Highlands Golf Course, located at 1400 N Highlands Parkway in Tacoma, Washington, presents an inviting 18-hole layout that balances enjoyment with challenge for players of all levels. This public course has evolved under recent management, with a notable upgrade to both tee boxes and greens, creating a smooth playing surface framed by well-maintained fairways. The course offers a distinctive par-3 focus, with most holes measuring under 180 yards, encouraging precision and shot variety rather than brute strength off the tee.
Set in a gently rolling terrain typical of the Pacific Northwest, Highlands Golf Course offers pockets of mature trees and water features that test accuracy and add visual interest without overwhelming less experienced golfers. The fairways, firm and receptive, invite strategic placement while bunkers stand guard around many greens to keep approach shots honest. The putting surfaces are firm and true, calling for a keen eye and steady touch.
Beyond the course itself, Highlands creates a welcoming atmosphere that rewards both casual and serious players. Practice areas, including nets perfect for warming up, add a practical edge for those wishing to fine-tune their swing before heading out. McDuff's Café, recently revitalized, offers a comfortable space to refresh and regroup with quality food and beverage options, rounding out a full golf day with ease.
Walking the layout is encouraged, as pathways are clear and manageable, with gentle elevation changes that keep the pace flowing. Players are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring ready golf etiquette to maintain steady play. While the ninth hole features a charming yet mischievous fountain that has been known to claim errant golf balls, this only adds a touch of character to the round.
Highlands Golf Course fosters an inclusive vibe, suitable for families, beginners, and low handicappers alike. It stands out in Tacoma as a well-kept, affordable course with scenic variety and solid championship qualities. Whether arriving for a quick round or an extended visit, Highlands offers a rewarding golf experience amid the Pacific Northwest’s subtle natural beauty.
Course Highlights
The course is distinguished by its par 3 emphasis, featuring tight fairways guarded by strategic bunkering and water hazards that reward accuracy. Recent renovations have enhanced tee boxes and greens to PGA-quality smoothness. McDuff’s Café offers a standout clubhouse experience rarely matched at public courses. A unique water fountain on the ninth hole adds character and a playful challenge to the round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Ryan A
Absolutely fantastic par 3 course. Tremendous groundskeeping, great prices, kind patrons and staff. My only feedback would be to educate folks about ready golf and fixing ball marks. But I fricken love this place. Don't get me wrong. It's my favorite short course. It's like a mini resort course. Just lovely.
L Steven Abels
Great staff good service
Fungayi Kambarami
David Russell
Great greens. Fun course. Great personnel in pro shop. Shae is great in the restaurant area.
Marcel Stadtmann (Cityman)
This golf course offers a fun and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. It’s well-kept, with lush fairways and strategically placed hazards that add challenge and enjoyment. The scenic views enhance each round, making it even more enjoyable. Although the pace of play was a bit slow, the course itself remains a great choice for a fun and engaging round of golf.
J Hawk
It’s under new management and boy have they done a great job! The greens are perfect. There still working on the fairways. It’s a great course for advanced players as well as experts and bringing the kids along since most the holes are under 180 yards. McDuffs café has just completed a total overhaul and is really awesome! You can’t beat the experience for $11.00.
Chad
Great condition and a must especially if you haven’t played since it’s updates.
Ryan A
Absolutely fantastic par 3 course. Tremendous groundskeeping, great prices, kind patrons and staff. My only feedback would be to educate folks about ready golf and fixing ball marks. But I fricken love this place. Don't get me wrong. It's my favorite short course. It's like a mini resort course. Just lovely.
Evan
Apparently under new management. The vibe of the place is top notch. For $15 a patron can receive a great golf experience. All of the tee boxes and greens are updated and look excellent. Course is in great shape compared to a year or so ago. We got coffee before our round and had great food afterwards. Just fun place to hang out now with some practice nets for warming up. Only negative was the 9th hole fountain that stole my ball! Will be back weekly. Well done new owners, looks wonderful!!
jacob n
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Course Details
Access & Location
1400 N Highlands Pkwy, Tacoma, WA 98406, USA
McDuff’s Café, newly renovated clubhouse with food and beverage service
Walking encouraged with well-maintained paths; comfortable footwear recommended due to varied terrain
Open to the public with tee times available online and by phone; walk-ins welcome subject to availability
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