Tacoma's golf scene offers an extraordinary blend of championship venues and accessible municipal courses, anchored by the world-famous Chambers Bay that hosted the 2015 U.S. Open. With 36 total courses within a 15-mile radius (25 public and 10 private), the area provides exceptional variety for golfers of all skill levels and budgets.
Championship golf meets Pacific Northwest beauty
The crown jewel of Tacoma golf is undeniably Chambers Bay, the dramatic links-style course carved from a former sand and gravel quarry in University Place. This Robert Trent Jones Jr. design stretches to 7,124 yards from the back tees with a slope rating of 139, making it one of the most challenging public courses in America.
World-class but wonderfully brutal
The course gained international fame hosting Jordan Spieth's 2015 U.S. Open victory and continues to attract major championships. Future USGA events include the 2028 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball and the 2033 U.S. Amateur. But here's what the promotional materials won't tell you straight up: this is a walking-only course with elevation changes exceeding 200 feet. Your calves will hate you, your lungs will question your life choices, and you'll probably lose more balls than you care to admit.
Green fees range from $265-285 for non-residents during peak season, which sounds steep until you factor in the incomparable views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from nearly every hole. The course underwent a significant greens renovation in 2017, transitioning from controversial fescue to poa annua. Translation: the greens actually hold approach shots now instead of watching your ball bounce into Puget Sound.
The friendlier sibling course
Just minutes away, The Home Course in DuPont serves as Chambers Bay's more accessible sister course. Designed by Mike Asmundson and stretching to 7,424 yards, this course provides panoramic views rivaling its famous neighbor while actually allowing cart access. Revolutionary concept, right?
Ranked as Washington's second-best public course by Golfweek, The Home Course hosted the 2014 U.S. Women's Amateur Public Links and served as the companion venue for the 2010 U.S. Amateur. You'll pay premium green fees here too, but at least you won't need an oxygen tank to finish your round.
Historic courses undergo transformative renovations
Tacoma's golf heritage runs deep, and several historic courses are currently experiencing massive upgrades that promise to reshape the local golf landscape.
Meadow Park's $40 million makeover
Meadow Park Golf Course holds special significance as Tacoma's first public course, opening in 1915. This John Ball-designed layout was notably the first in the area to welcome players of all races and genders—a progressive stance for its time that continues today.
Currently undergoing a massive $40 million reimagination project, Meadow Park recently received a $250,000 PGA grant to support its transformation. The renovation includes:
- Championship 18-hole course upgrades
- Williams Nine executive course improvements
- Country's first covered LED-lit range
- Multi-level practice facility
- Modern irrigation systems
Despite the ongoing construction, the course remains playable and offers exceptional value at just $25 for 18 holes. The 6,093-yard layout with a slope rating of 116 provides an enjoyable challenge without requiring you to mortgage your house for a dozen Pro V1s.
North Shore's tribal transformation
North Shore Golf Course is experiencing its own renaissance with a $7.5 million renovation led by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. The back nine reopened in July 2025 featuring state-of-the-art irrigation, redesigned green complexes, and reimagined bunkers that actually make strategic sense now.
This 60-year-old course is positioning itself as a premium daily-fee option. The tribe's investment shows in every detail, from the improved conditioning to the thoughtful redesign that respects the original layout while bringing it into the modern era.
Value options for every golfer
Not everyone has three Benjamins burning a hole in their pocket for a round at Chambers Bay. Fortunately, Tacoma delivers outstanding value options that won't require selling a kidney.
American Lake Veterans: Nicklaus design on a muni budget
American Lake Veterans Golf Course stands out as both an incredible bargain and an inspiring story. The facility features a Jack Nicklaus-designed back nine completed in 2016—his 400th course worldwide. The entire course is ADA-accessible and specifically designed for veteran rehabilitation, maintained entirely by dedicated volunteers.
At just $8 for a large bucket of 110 balls, American Lake Veterans offers the area's best practice value. The course plays to 5,724 yards with a modest slope of 105, making it perfect for beginners and those working on their games. The contrast between the traditional 1950s front nine and Nicklaus's modern back nine creates an interesting round that won't destroy your confidence or your wallet.
Highlands: Quick rounds, lasting memories
Highlands Golf Course earned recognition as the fifth-best short course in America according to Golfer's Choice 2024. This nine-hole par-3 course offers:
- Holes from wedge to long iron
- Round completion under 75 minutes
- Green fees from $20.82
- Eight bunkers strategically placed
- Three water hazards
As home to the Washington State Par 3 Championship, Highlands proves that shorter doesn't mean easier. It's perfect for squeezing in a quick round before work or practicing your short game without committing to four hours on the course.
Private clubs and semi-private options
While public golf dominates Tacoma's landscape, several prestigious private clubs add depth to the scene for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
Historic Tacoma Country & Golf Club
Established in 1894, Tacoma Country & Golf Club holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating golf club in the Western United States. The club employed "Long Jim" Barnes as its professional from 1911-1914, who later won four major championships. This historic venue will host the 2025 Washington Open and the 2027 U.S. Senior Women's Open.
Fircrest's preserved perfection
Fircrest Golf Club, designed by legendary architect A.V. Macan in 1923, ranks among Washington's top courses with its Scottish-influenced layout. The course has remained virtually unchanged since opening, preserving Macan's original vision through 165 acres of wooded terrain. Those multi-tiered undulating greens will make you question everything you thought you knew about reading putts.
Oakbrook goes semi-private
For those seeking private club access without the initiation fee shock, Oakbrook Golf Club transitioned from private to semi-private in 2012. Now owned by PGA Tour professional Ryan Moore, the club offers limited public tee times with the feel of a private club experience. It's like getting into the VIP section without knowing the bouncer.
Practical planning for your Tacoma golf adventure
Success on Tacoma's courses starts with smart planning. Here's what you need to know before teeing it up.
Booking strategies that actually work
Timing is everything when booking Tacoma tee times. Chambers Bay allows groups of 12 or more to book up to one year in advance, while individual players should reserve as early as possible during peak season. Most courses utilize online platforms including GolfNow and TeeOff, which often feature discounted rates.
For the best value, consider twilight rates starting around 2 PM, offering savings of 30-50% on many courses. Just remember that Pacific Northwest summer twilight lasts until 9 PM, so you'll actually finish your round.
Weather realities and seasonal play
The Pacific Northwest weather gods are fickle, but patterns exist:
- July-September: Driest conditions, highest rates
- October-March: Softer conditions, lower rates
- April-June: Variable but playable
- Year-round: Most courses stay open
Links-style courses like Chambers Bay actually play better in wind and light rain—it's part of the "authentic" experience. Winter golf remains popular, though expect preferred lies and potentially muddy conditions from November through March.
Practice facilities comparison
Not all driving ranges are created equal. Here's the breakdown:
Full-service facilities:
- Chambers Bay: Grass hitting areas, teaching academy
- The Home Course: Complete practice complex
- Oakbrook: Grass range, multiple greens
Weather-protected options:
- Meadow Park: New LED-lit covered range
- American Lake Veterans: Covered bays
Basic facilities:
- Allenmore: Iron-only range
- Various municipal courses: Mats only
Making your choice: Where to play based on your game
Different golfers need different experiences. Here's how to match your game to the right course.
First-time visitor must-plays
If you're making the pilgrimage to Tacoma golf, Chambers Bay remains mandatory despite its challenges. Plan to walk, bring extra balls (seriously, bring more than you think), and consider hiring a caddie to help navigate those elevation changes. Pair it with a round at The Home Course for a more relaxed but equally scenic championship experience.
Mid-handicapper sweet spots
Lake Spanaway and the renovated North Shore provide ideal Pacific Northwest golf without extreme difficulty. Both offer:
- Tree-lined fairways
- Strategic challenges
- Reasonable green fees
- Excellent conditioning
- Actual chance of breaking 90
Meadow Park will join this category once renovations complete, combining history with modern amenities at municipal course prices.
Beginner-friendly options
Start at American Lake Veterans or Highlands, where welcoming environments and appropriate challenges help develop skills without frustration. These courses prove that accessible golf doesn't mean compromising on conditions or enjoyment.
The future of Tacoma golf
Tacoma's golf landscape continues evolving with over $47 million in combined renovations currently underway. The commitment to improving public golf infrastructure while maintaining accessibility sets Tacoma apart from other markets where municipal courses often suffer from neglect.
Youth development thrives through First Tee programs and the Washington Youth on Course initiative, which provides $5 rounds for juniors aged 6-18. These programs ensure golf's future while making the game accessible to families regardless of economic background.
The Tacoma Golf Association, operating since 1931, maintains four legacy city championship events and regular amateur competitions. This competitive infrastructure supports players looking to test their games beyond casual rounds.
Final thoughts on Tacoma golf
Tacoma's golf scene offers something genuinely special: world-class golf alongside affordable municipal options, all set against spectacular Pacific Northwest scenery. Whether you're chasing a bucket-list experience at Chambers Bay or enjoying a quick nine at Highlands, the variety and quality consistently impress.
The ongoing renovations and investments in public golf infrastructure position Tacoma as a premier golf destination that respects both tradition and innovation. From century-old municipal courses to modern championship venues, from Jack Nicklaus designs to preserved A.V. Macan classics, Tacoma delivers memorable golf experiences at every price point.
Just remember to pack rain gear, extra balls, and reasonable expectations about your score at Chambers Bay. The views alone make every triple bogey worth it.
