Chambers Bay Golf Course
Carved from a former sand and gravel pit, Chambers Bay Golf Course offers a bold, links-style challenge along Puget Sound’s coast. This public 18-hole layout tests strategy with its coastal winds, dramatic bunkers, and subtly contoured greens framed by expansive water and mountain views.
Course Overview
Chambers Bay Golf Course, positioned on the rugged shores of Puget Sound in University Place, Washington, offers an uncompromising test of golf carved from an old sand and gravel pit. This public, 18-hole layout unfolds over rolling dunes and expansive links-style terrain, exposing players to the ever-present coastal wind that shapes every shot. The absence of trees and the natural contours of the land create broad sightlines that challenge strategy and shot-making with a fresh perspective on Pacific Northwest golf.
From the first tee, Chambers Bay demands thoughtful club selection and creative play. The course drifts through undulating fairways that slope and bend with precision, flanked by deep bunkers and thick native fescue that perfectly guard the well-kept greens. The greens themselves are famously difficult, presenting contours that will put even experienced players’ green-reading skills to the test. These nuances elevate the challenge, yet the layout welcomes a spectrum of players who appreciate strategic golf rather than pure length.
Chambers Bay’s coastal backdrop amplifies every hole, with panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains punctuating the round. The sound of waves and occasional seabird calls add a natural rhythm, while the occasional gust quickly influences trajectory and distance. Despite its challenging reputation, the course rewards thoughtful precision and course management, making it suitable for ambitious mid-handicappers through low-handicap players seeking a demanding round.
Facilities include a modern clubhouse with a spacious event space overlooking the bay, practice areas including a driving range and putting green, and attentive staff known for providing insightful local tips. Walking the course is encouraged, though the terrain is firm and can be brisk. Golf carts and shuttles assist in accessing the practice facilities. Chambers Bay stands apart as a unique Pacific Northwest experience where natural links-style golf meets dramatic coastal scenery for a round that lingers in memory long after the final putt.
Course Highlights
Chambers Bay is recognized for its dramatic links-style layout on former industrial land, featuring panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The course challenges golfers with large, undulating greens surrounded by deep bunkers and natural fescue areas. Signature holes steer golfers along the coast while strategic design emphasizes shot placement over sheer length. Notable for hosting the 2015 U.S. Open, the course blends natural beauty with a demanding test of tactical golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Jack Daly
I had the chance to sneak on as a single during a business trip to Seattle, and playing Chambers Bay was absolutely worth it. This is a truly unique piece of property—carved out of an old sand and gravel pit, it offers a dramatic and beautiful setting unlike most other courses in the Pacific Northwest. Being from Chicago, I’ve never played anything like it. The course is a fantastic test of golf that forces you to think your way around every hole. It’s not just about hitting fairways and greens—you really have to manage angles, slopes, and the ever-present wind coming off the Puget Sound. There’s incredible risk-reward golf throughout, especially on holes like the drivable par 4s and the long par 5s where strategy is everything. It’s the kind of place where every shot matters and no two rounds will play the same. The layout is tough but fair, and the challenge is part of what makes it so fun. Definitely one of the more memorable courses I’ve played, and if you’re anywhere near Seattle/Tacoma with your clubs, it’s a must-play.
Kiva Nguyen
Nalani Loepke
Chambers bay is the perfect place to come to clear your mind. If you come early it’s not busy, later in the day is does get pretty busy but never crowded because it’s so spacious. They have these big poles which people can add locks on with writing which is worth seeing. You can walk all the way down to the water and around the golf course. It’s extremely well maintained I’d say it takes 2-3 hours to complete the loop. And there are some pretty steep sections. It’s a good workout and it’s so beautiful. There’s plenty of free parking, restrooms, water fountains (including some for dogs) and a real quality park here for children as well. If you’re in the area pay it a visit you won’t regret it and will likely begin frequenting it (like me 😉). Oh and if you like running you will love it here, it’s paved and flat so you can run with minimal disruptions!
joann loyola
This beautiful, spacious area is perfect for sports, picnics, and family gatherings. You can enjoy jogging, walking, or biking while taking in breathtaking views of the long train and beach, with stunning sights of nearby islands. Don't miss the art locks experience and the chance to play golf too. Enjoy the outdoors and make memories!
Adam Heck
Not for the beginning golfer!! Played Chambers for the first time yesterday, 7am tee time. First off, I was blown away by the hospitality of every employee we interacted with from the gentleman checking us in at the clubhouse, to the shuttle driver taking us down to the practice greens/range and especially the starter who gave us some incredibly helpful tips for dealing with the extremely difficult greens. They aren’t kidding when you hear you can fairway putt from 30 yards off the green! Immaculate conditions and diabolical bunkers/hazards!! I’m a 14 handicap and barely stayed under 100. If you’re a fader or slicer, beware of #8. With dry or wet conditions; If a putt is uphill, give it 10-20% more than you think and take off 30% downhill. Gorgeous views and fantastic experience. Good luck.
Courtney Murphy
Not only is the golf course stunning, but the event space is absolutely amazing. We had an event there recently and everyone was blown away but the beauty inside with the chandeliers as well as the view of the bay. Plus the staff was incredible to work with and we can’t wait to go back!
Jessica Bailey
Truly breathtaking Golf Course + place to get married or host an event! Attended the Beauty Boost Tacoma's Hippie Dippie Summer Social here, and can't wait to bring out of town guests here for drinks on the patio and for a round of golf. The staff was very kind + helpful the entire event!
Riki Plester
Incredible course. Lots of variety in holes, spectacular views & great staff. Joel & Frank were excellent caddies.
Courtney Murphy
Not only is the golf course stunning, but the event space is absolutely amazing. We had an event there recently and everyone was blown away but the beauty inside with the chandeliers as well as the view of the bay. Plus the staff was incredible to work with and we can’t wait to go back!
Jahaira Ordonez
Great place to go walk and see the sunset
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Course Details
Access & Location
6320 Grandview Dr W, University Place, WA 98467, USA
Modern waterfront clubhouse with dining, event facilities, and expansive bay views
Walking is encouraged, with firm terrain and some elevation changes; appropriate golf shoes recommended for stability and comfort
Advance tee time reservations recommended, especially on weekends and during summer months
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