Best Golf Courses in Washington State – When it comes to breathtaking landscapes and top-tier golfing experiences, Washington State offers some of the finest golf courses in the U.S. From stunning coastal layouts in Tacoma to scenic mountain courses in Spokane and Seattle’s pristine greens, the best golf courses in Washington State cater to every golfer — whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual weekend player. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top public and private golf courses in Washington, what makes them unique, green fees, facilities, and why Washington is a golfer’s paradise. Plus, we’ll share a few health and safety tips for golfers — including an essential link to HealthGuard Insurance for comprehensive player coverage.
Table Of Contents
🏌️♂️ Why Washington State Is a Golfer’s Paradise
Washington’s golf culture is deeply rooted in nature and adventure. Its diverse topography — from rolling coastal dunes to pine-covered valleys and mountain backdrops — makes it one of the most picturesque states for golf.
Here’s why golf enthusiasts love it:
- 🌲 Scenic beauty – dramatic views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Cascades.
- 🌦️ Mild climate – year-round golf is possible in many regions.
- 🏆 World-class architecture – legendary course designers like Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Jack Nicklaus have left their mark.
- 💰 Variety of pricing – from affordable public tracks to luxurious private clubs.
🥇 Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025)
Let’s take a look at the most impressive and highly rated golf courses across the state, based on design, challenge level, and natural setting.
| Rank | Golf Course | Location | Type | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chambers Bay | University Place | Public | Host of 2015 U.S. Open, links-style design |
| 2 | Gamble Sands | Brewster | Resort/Public | Panoramic Columbia River views |
| 3 | Wine Valley Golf Club | Walla Walla | Public | Championship layout amid vineyards |
| 4 | Salish Cliffs Golf Club | Shelton | Public/Tribal | Sustainable course design & casino resort |
| 5 | The Home Course | DuPont | Public | Home of PNGA & WSGA headquarters |
| 6 | Aldarra Golf Club | Sammamish | Private | Designed by Tom Fazio, pristine fairways |
| 7 | Tumble Creek Club | Cle Elum | Private | Stunning mountain scenery |
| 8 | Palouse Ridge Golf Club | Pullman | Public | Located on WSU campus, rolling hills |
| 9 | Gold Mountain Golf Complex | Bremerton | Public | Two top-tier courses: Olympic & Cascade |
| 10 | Suncadia Resort – Rope Rider Course | Cle Elum | Resort | Family-friendly, mountain views |
🌊 1. Chambers Bay – University Place
Type: Public
Green Fee: $180–$275 (varies by season)
Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Chambers Bay is Washington’s most famous course, having hosted the 2015 U.S. Open. Its Scottish links-style design and coastal dunes overlooking Puget Sound make it an unforgettable golfing experience. The undulating fairways and deep bunkers offer a fair challenge to players of all levels.
🏌️♂️ Insider Tip: Play in the afternoon for golden-hour views of the Sound — absolutely breathtaking. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
🍷 2. Gamble Sands – Brewster
Type: Public/Resort
Green Fee: $120–$200
Designer: David McLay Kidd
Named the #1 Best Public Course in Washington by Golfweek, Gamble Sands is a links masterpiece built atop sand dunes above the Columbia River. The firm fairways, wide-open layout, and luxury accommodations make it ideal for both serious and casual golfers. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
🏨 Stay at the Inn at Gamble Sands for a full resort experience.
🍇 3. Wine Valley Golf Club – Walla Walla
Type: Public
Green Fee: $80–$130
Designer: Dan Hixson
Wine Valley’s layout complements its setting among rolling vineyards and golden hills. It’s renowned for wide fairways, fast greens, and strategic bunkering. Many consider it a modern classic that balances fun and difficulty perfectly.
🍷 Don’t miss visiting nearby Walla Walla wineries after your round.
🌲 4. Salish Cliffs Golf Club – Shelton
Type: Public/Tribal Resort Course
Green Fee: $100–$160
Designer: Gene Bates
Located within the Little Creek Casino Resort, Salish Cliffs offers 18 holes surrounded by forests and wetlands. It’s known for being one of the most eco-friendly courses in the U.S., using sustainable turf and water systems. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
🎰 After your game, enjoy the casino, spa, and fine dining at the resort.
🏠 5. The Home Course – DuPont
Type: Public
Green Fee: $60–$120
Designer: Michael Asmundson
Home to both the PNGA and WSGA offices, this course provides a perfect blend of challenge and accessibility. The fairways are generous, and views of Mount Rainier elevate the experience. It’s a favorite among serious golfers for its fair design and immaculate conditioning. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
🏔️ 6. Aldarra Golf Club – Sammamish
Type: Private
Green Fee: Members only
Designer: Tom Fazio
Aldarra is one of Washington’s most exclusive clubs, offering immaculate fairways, a peaceful environment, and unbeatable privacy. Members praise it for its mix of strategy, elevation, and views of the Cascade Mountains. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
🏞️ 7. Tumble Creek Club – Cle Elum
Type: Private
Designer: Tom Doak
Tumble Creek is part of the Suncadia Resort and provides a mountain golf experience unlike any other in Washington. Membership includes access to multiple resort amenities, making it ideal for those seeking both golf and luxury. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
🧭 8. Palouse Ridge Golf Club – Pullman
Type: Public
Green Fee: $60–$110
Designer: John Harbottle III
Located on the Washington State University (WSU) campus, this course offers sweeping vistas and a true test of skill with deep bunkers and fast greens. It’s often ranked among the Top 100 University Courses in America.
🌅 9. Gold Mountain Golf Complex – Bremerton
Type: Public
Green Fee: $40–$110
Courses: Olympic & Cascade
Gold Mountain offers two top-quality courses — Olympic (championship-level) and Cascade (more forgiving). It’s a popular choice for tournaments and weekend outings. The complex’s affordability and accessibility make it perfect for all skill levels.
🏖️ 10. Rope Rider Course – Suncadia Resort
Type: Resort/Public
Green Fee: $85–$120
Designer: Jacobsen Hardy
Named after local miners who once rode coal ropes, this course combines history with nature. Gentle slopes, large greens, and a relaxed environment make it family-friendly. It’s part of Suncadia’s trio of world-class golf courses.
🏌️ Health and Safety for Golfers
While golf is a low-impact sport, it still demands good health and protection from unexpected injuries or accidents.
If you’re traveling across courses or playing professionally, having sports or travel health insurance is crucial. You can explore plans via HealthGuard Insurance — offering reliable coverage for:
- Accidental injuries on the course
- Emergency medical care
- Physical therapy & rehabilitation
- Travel protection for golf trips
Staying insured ensures you enjoy your game worry-free, whether you’re swinging at Chambers Bay or Wine Valley. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
📍 Other Notable Golf Courses in Washington
- Sahalee Country Club (Sammamish) – Host of the PGA Championship.
- Indian Canyon Golf Course (Spokane) – Classic 1930s design.
- Desert Canyon Golf Resort (Orondo) – Desert-style course with Columbia River views.
- Apple Tree Golf Course (Yakima) – Famous apple-shaped island green.
- Tacoma Country & Golf Club – Oldest private club in the state, established in 1894.
🧠 Tips for Planning a Golf Trip in Washington
- Book early: Popular public courses fill up quickly in summer.
- Check weather forecasts: Western Washington can be rainy.
- Travel insurance: Protect your trip through HealthGuard Insurance.
- Rent or carry clubs: Most resorts offer premium rental sets.
- Combine golf with wine tours: Especially around Walla Walla and Chelan.
🌤️ Best Time to Play Golf in Washington
The prime golf season runs from April to October, though courses in western areas like Tacoma and Seattle remain playable year-round due to the mild climate.
For the best experience:
- Spring (April–May): Lush greens, moderate temperatures.
- Summer (June–August): Peak season; longer daylight hours.
- Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds, colorful foliage.
🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best public golf course in Washington State?
Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025) – Chambers Bay and Gamble Sands are widely recognized as the best public golf courses, offering championship layouts and breathtaking scenery.
2. Are there any golf resorts in Washington?
Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025) – Yes, Suncadia Resort, Gamble Sands, and Salish Cliffs are among the top resorts combining luxury accommodations with world-class golfing. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
3. How much does it cost to play golf in Washington?
Public course fees typically range from $40 to $200 depending on season and location, while private clubs operate on membership-only access.
4. Can I golf year-round in Washington State?
Yes! Western Washington (Seattle, Tacoma) allows year-round golfing due to its mild climate, while eastern areas are best between April and October. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
5. Do I need golf insurance or health coverage?
While not mandatory, having coverage from HealthGuard Insurance is recommended for players to protect against injuries or medical emergencies during play. Best Golf Courses in Washington State (2025).
