Washington
Top Choice: Chambers Bay, University Place
9.9/10
Why it's Spectacular
Designed By: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
If you could ever imagine a photogenic golf course, the Chambers Bay has to be it. Somehow the course manages to balance the original elements of the land with the absolute masterpiece vision of its creator.
The course is neither traditional links, or standard format, but almost a hybrid which encompasses bright green grass in a coastal, environment contrasted by its sandy underbelly.
The views are phenomenal from almost every hole and the wow factor of the course itself is well matched by the surroundings of Puget Sound and the stunning mountains in the distance. As a result, the course is more calm and soothing than courses found right on the ocean-front and in many ways, more picturesque, as well.
Signature holes include those with views of the old mining ruins, those running along the train tracks, and the lone-standing pine but in all honesty, this is a course where every hole is interesting and enjoyable and worth adding to any bucket-list.
Other Top Courses
Gamble Sands
-
Pros: A very solid links course in the center of the state Gamble Sands is absolutely worth the stop. There are interesting holes, nice views, and some opportunities to challenge yourself with deceptive lines, huge bunkers, and approach angles that will put your game to a test.
Cons: This is a course that is completely cool to see and play in person but does not have the photogenic appeal of some of the other courses on the list.
Score:
9.5/10
Suncadia Resort
Prospector
Pros: Suncadia Resort is a bit of a sleeper if you're not from the area but there is a reason why locals from Seattle and other surrounding areas flock to it in the summer. The resort is top-notch and the courses are not far behind. Prospector is the more interesting of the two, but both feature great holes which wind through the dense Pines and provide plenty of challenge.
Cons: You do get trapped in the woods a bit and don't have the perspective that you do on many other courses to see other landscapes and mountain features. Nonetheless, its a great experience.
Score:
9.2/10
Suncadia Resort
Rope Rider
Pros: Perhaps the good holes are actually better than the good holes on Prospector, although there are less of them. The course is likely to be in excellent conditions nonetheless and if you are already at the resort its well worth playing both courses.
Cons: Less interesting holes and a bit repetitive if you are playing all 36.
Score:
8.9/10