Highlands Golf Course
Highlands Golf Course in Tacoma offers a revitalized 18-hole public layout distinguished by its short yet challenging holes, well-kept conditions, and welcoming atmosphere. Ideal for golfers of all skill levels, the course pairs strategic play with accessible design and updated facilities such as a new clubhouse café.
Course Overview
Highlands Golf Course in Tacoma, Washington presents an inviting and refreshed golfing destination that welcomes players across skill levels to enjoy an 18-hole experience rich with careful conditioning and engaging design. This public course emphasizes approachable play while integrating elements that demand thoughtful strategy, particularly given its array of well-maintained short-to-mid-length holes. The layout unfolds over lush, green fairways punctuated by neatly manicured bunkers and fast, smooth putting surfaces that reward precision.
Located at 1400 N Highlands Parkway, the course offers a setting where the city’s energetic pulse fades into a focused golf environment. The relatively compact hole yardages, most under 180 yards, create an accessible challenge that encourages players to sharpen their short game while also offering enough variety to test experienced golfers’ shot-making skills. The course’s approachable nature makes it an ideal choice for families and golf novices, while its recent updates have boosted its appeal for more competitive players seeking a well-conditioned test without overwhelming length.
A notable highlight of Highlands is the balance struck between playability and the care taken in course maintenance. Fresh tee boxes and rebuilt greens stand out as markers of a course revitalized under new management, which has focused on quality turf and clean visual lines that aid shot shaping and alignment. A new café facility, McDuffs, adds to the overall experience by providing a social hub for golfers before and after rounds, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.
Practical considerations include ready golf, encouraged to maintain pace alongside walking-friendly paths. This invites players to fully immerse themselves in the course’s rhythm while benefiting from the gentle elevation changes and open sightlines. For visitors, the affordability, improved conditions, and family-friendly design make Highlands a remarkable choice for a day on the links within the Tacoma area.
Whether you’re aiming to polish wedges or enjoy a casual round with friends, Highlands Golf Course stands out as a course that respects tradition, embraces accessibility, and promises a satisfying round amid Washington’s evergreen landscapes.
Course Highlights
Highlands features a par-3 dominated layout with short, precise holes that emphasize accuracy over power. Renovated tee boxes and greens elevate playability, while McDuffs Café offers a modern hub for golfers. The course's friendly design supports beginners and families, with enough strategic challenges for low handicappers aiming to refine their game.
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.
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.
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!!
L Steven Abels
Great staff good service
Fungayi Kambarami
jacob n
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.
Chad
Great condition and a must especially if you haven’t played since it’s updates.
David Russell
Great greens. Fun course. Great personnel in pro shop. Shae is great in the restaurant area.
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Course Details
Access & Location
1400 N Highlands Pkwy, Tacoma, WA 98406, USA
McDuffs Café and Pro Shop
Encouraged throughout the layout; walking paths are smooth and signage aids navigation. Good golf shoes recommended for varied turf and occasional wet spots.
Tee times recommended, walk-ins welcome subject to availability.
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