In a crazy year like the one we all just experienced, collectively we needed to grab hold of anything we could to keep some “normalcy” in our lives. Some of us got outdoors more, some of us bought a new home gym, some of us binged all of Game of Thrones, and well, some of us grabbed the mashie and niblick and played some golf! It seems like there are more people golfing than ever, bringing folks from all different walks of life onto the links. I got to thinking, since there are all these different types of golfers, why not highlight some different courses for different types of players? Whether you push, carry or ride, grab your sticks and go play some Pacific Northwest golf!
The Beginner
“Just got my first set of clubs, trying a new hobby so I can get more fresh air…”
Interbay Golf Links — Seattle, WA
Located in Seattle, you’ll find nine holes of golf, a two-story driving range, a putting and chipping area, and even 18 holes of mini-golf! Don’t worry, they’re not just about the golf here; stop by the bar and pick up a drink on your way to hit some range balls. At Interbay, you will frequently see groups of friends hanging out and socializing during their golf experience, making it a comfortable place for players of all skill levels. If you’d like to give the course a try, the nine-hole course at Interbay offers a variety of short to medium-length holes that are perfect for the new player. If you are new to the game but eager to learn, Interbay Golf Links is the perfect place for you!
The Casual Golfer
“Hey, we just want to have a good time and play some golf on the side…”
Foster Golf Links — Tukwila, WA
A hidden gem awaits the casual golfer at Foster Golf Links in Tukwila. This awesome little 18-hole course offers no shortage of fun, starting with four consecutive drivable par fours to begin the round. The greens at Foster are as good as it gets for the price, and if you’re just looking to have a good time, you will feel comfortable and welcome at this golf course. After driving some greens and having a blast on the links, head in to Billy Baroo’s Bar & Grill for some food and refreshments in a “Caddyshack” themed dining area.
The Avid Hacker
“We both shoot 100 but love the game and appreciate a great course…”
The Home Course — DuPont, WA
Get out the driver and let it rip at The Home Course, one of the purest and most enjoyable layouts in the state. A fair and challenging test for golfers of all skill levels, The Home Course has plenty of room off the tee and offers plenty of chances at birdie. On a clear day you can catch an epic view of Mt. Rainier from the tee on the par four seventh hole, but if it’s a rainy PNW day don’t you worry, The Home Course has some of the best winter conditions around. A great place to learn the game, break 100 for the first time or hone your skills, the wide, rolling fairways at The Home Course will keep you coming back for more fun.
The Experienced Low Handicapper
“Single-digit handicaps, lost by one last time, the epic rematch ensues…”
Chambers Bay Golf Course — University Place, WA
If you have the game and want to step it up to the next level, look no further than Chambers Bay Golf Course. Situated right on the water in University Place, this behemoth of a golf course is truly one of a kind. A masterpiece from Robert Trent Jones Jr., Chambers Bay weaves together traditional golf links and a classic Pacific Northwest layout, with a modern touch sprinkled on top. Chambers Bay will take your breath away with Mars-like scenes, dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views of the bay. A walking-only course, Chambers Bay is both a mental and physical challenge unlike any other and will test the wits of even the best golfer. A truly world-class golf course, Chambers Bay hosted the 2015 US Open and carries an appropriate price tag. If you’re looking for a big challenge and an unforgettable experience, grab your sticks and take on this legendary PNW giant.
The PNW Adventure Golfer
“It’s all about the venue, I’m here for the nature!”
White Horse Golf Club — Kingston, WA
If you’ve got the whole day and want more of our beautiful green wonderland that is the PNW, hop on a ferry and head to Kingston, where the tree-lined epicness of White Horse Golf Club awaits you. I recommend teeing it forward at White Horse, as the narrow fairways and complex greens provide plenty of difficulty. Recognized as one of the most challenging courses in the state when it opened, White Horse has since been tamed by a redesign and now offers 18 holes of engaging, natural golf. The signature 18th hole presents a 386-yard par four with water down the left all the way through the green, providing a hearty final test for any golfer. Hit some fairways, roll the rock on solid greens and enjoy the calm serenity at White Horse Golf Club.
Seeking golf in southwest Washington? Check out Where To Go Golfing in Vancouver, Washington.
Photos: White Horse Golf Club, Interbay Golf Center, The Home Course, Foster Golf Links. Additional photos by the author.
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