Seattle is one of the best cities in the United States for golfers. With its lush green landscapes and beautiful views, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon on the links. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing round or intense competition, Seattle has a course that will meet your needs. Here’s our list of the 13 best golf courses in Seattle and what they have to offer.
West Seattle Golf Course
If you’re looking for a municipal course in Seattle that stands out from the rest, West Seattle Golf Course is the place to be. Located just a few miles south of downtown, this course offers players a challenging and rewarding experience that they won’t soon forget. The front nine features a flat terrain that runs alongside Longfellow Creek, while the back nine is a bit trickier, with hills and wind to contend with.
Despite playing 300 yards shorter than the front, the back nine can be a real test of skill. And with stunning views of downtown Seattle and Elliot Bay from some of the holes, it’s no wonder that this is a favorite among golfers. Designed by H. Chandler Egan, who also worked his magic at Pebble Beach, West Seattle Golf Course has stood the test of time since its completion in 1940. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable round of golf just minutes from the city center, look no further than West Seattle.
Address: 4470 35th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126-2636, United States
The Golf Club at Newcastle
Located a mere 22 minutes from Seattle’s city center, The Golf Club at Newcastle boasts some of the most breathtaking views in the area. Golfers have their choice between two outstanding courses, Coal Creek and China Creek, both of which are framed by the stunning Lake Washington.
Playing China Creek will require golfers to anticipate undulations on several fairways and bunkers strategically placed throughout. Meanwhile, the Coal Creek course provides unparalleled views alongside a challenging layout that includes undulating green complexes and elevation changes where proper club selection is paramount.
Designed by Robert E. Cupp and Masters champion and area native Fred Couples, the Coal Creek course is a championship-caliber course, while the China Creek course, also designed by Cupp, is a bit shorter and plays easier for a more leisurely round.
Without a doubt, The Golf Club at Newcastle offers golfers a truly unforgettable experience.
Address: 15500 Six Penny Ln, Newcastle, WA 98059, United States
Washington National Golf Club
Nestled southeast of downtown Seattle, Washington National Golf Course is a true treasure of the Pacific Northwest. This publicly played course is home to the University of Washington’s Men’s and Women’s varsity golf teams, and was designed by renowned architect John Fought. The course boasts wide fairways that may initially lull golfers into a false sense of security, but strategically placed hazards and challenges await even the most accomplished shot makers.
With tee options ranging from 5,100 to 7,300 yards, Washington National accommodates a wide range of play abilities. For those seeking a formidable challenge, the burly 7,304-yard championship course is sure to test even the most experienced golfers. But fear not, a variety of tee boxes provide an enjoyable experience for all players. Experience the beauty and challenge of Washington National Golf Course, just 37 minutes from the city center.
Address: 14330 SE Husky Way, Auburn, WA 98092, United States
Seattle Golf Club
Seattle Golf Club was founded in 1900 and has since undergone a renovation carried out by Arnold Palmer in the mid-1990s. However, the basic layout of this Golden Age track has remained unaltered for over a decade, providing an authentic experience for golf enthusiasts. The course occupies compact property featuring well-manicured greens and stately stands of Douglas fir-lined fairways. What sets Seattle Golf Club apart from others in the Pacific Northwest region is the variety of design and extent of elevation changes that golfers can experience throughout a round.
In 2007, Thad Layton from the Arnold Palmer Design Company drew up a plan to revamp the course, utilizing Ridgetop Construction to upgrade the program. During the process, five greens were completely reconstructed, fairway bunker modifications were made on four holes, and new tees were added on another four holes. The bunkering may be of new millennium vintage, but the traditional style of Seattle Golf Club’s design truly stands the test of time.
Address: 210 NW 145th St, Shoreline, WA 98177, United States
Chambers Bay
Nestled just 50 minutes from the city center, Chambers Bay Golf Course is a masterpiece designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Golf Digest recently ranked it #21 on their list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, and for good reason. Featuring tawny fescue, towering sand dunes, and sprawling fairways, the course offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and snow-capped Olympic Mountains. Although it invokes Scotland’s spirit, the course remains distinctly Pacific Northwest.
What sets Chambers Bay apart is its links-style layout and walking-only policy, making it an unforgettable experience for any golf enthusiast. Expert caddies are also available for hire, offering their knowledge and helping players make the most of their time on the course. Chambers Bay is undoubtedly Seattle’s best-known course, and it’s easy to see why.
Address: 6320 Grandview Dr W, University Place, WA 98467, United States
Druid’s Glen Golf Club
Druids Glen Golf Club in Covington, Washington, has solidified its place as one of the 10 most difficult courses in the state. The course, designed by architects Keith Foster and Ted Locke in 1997, boasts an impressive championship layout that stretches over 7,000 yards from the back tees. Situated just an hour south of Seattle, the course occupies a dramatic terrain that characterizes the Pacific Northwest. Mount Rainier serves as a spectacular backdrop, and the course offers undulating greens and rolling fairways framed by mature trees.
More than 60 bunkers and water hazards come into play throughout, providing a challenging and well-rounded test for golfers of all skill levels. With its hilly terrain and varied elevation changes, Druids Glen Golf Club infuses testing accuracy with sidehill, uphill, and downhill lies. All this presents a top-notch experience for golf enthusiasts who seek a challenge fit for the professional golfer.
Address: 29925 207th Ave SE, Covington, WA 98042, United States
TPC Snoqualmie Ridge
TPC Snoqualmie Ridge is a golfer’s paradise located just a short distance from Snoqualmie. Offering stunning views and a challenging course for golfers of all skill levels, the Jack Nicklaus signature course is not for the faint of heart. Measuring 7,264 yards, the high-risk, high-reward course can prove to be quite a challenge.
Although it boasts several good holes on the front 9 course, including the stroke index 1 rated 462-yard 3rd and the all-carry tee shot across Eagle Lake on the 9th hole, the real magic is found on the back nine. With features like the downhill 210-yard 13th, aptly nicknamed “Mt. Si-gh,” and the 211-yard 17th, known as “On the Rock,” where golfers must navigate around an enormous boulder, the back nine is sure to impress even the most seasoned of golfers. What’s even more impressive is that TPC Snoqualmie Ridge is the only course in the state designed by the legendary Golden Bear and has been providing golfers with a challenging yet rewarding experience since its creation in 1999.
Address: 36005 SE Ridge St, Snoqualmie, WA 98065, United States
Harbour Pointe Golf Club
Harbour Pointe Golf Club is a true gem for any golf enthusiast, offering a beautiful woodland course that is sure to challenge any skill level. The course was expertly designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, who is best known for his illustrious designs at Bay Harbor Golf Club, Half Moon Bay Golf Links, and Newport National Golf Club. This Washington gem is the only course of its kind in the area, boasting lots of rolling terrain and elevation changes that will keep players on their toes.
Golfers of all levels will be tested by the course’s challenging front nine, which brings water into play often, while the back nine plays with the hilly terrain. One of the standout holes is the 11th, which features a 100-foot drop from tee box to green. It’s no wonder that this fantastic course has been a popular destination since it opened in 1990.
Address: 11817 Harbour Pointe Blvd, Mukilteo, WA 98275, United States
Maplewood Golf Course
As a charming municipal course owned and operated by the city of Renton, Maplewood Golf Course offers Seattle golfers an exciting and accessible 18-hole, par-72 layout. Spanning over 6,000 yards, the course gives golfers of all skill levels the opportunity to experience a challenging and rewarding round of golf.
Designed by renowned architect Al Smith and opened in 1952, the course features four front-nine par-4s measuring 310 yards or less from the white tees, providing a chance for golfers to sink birdie putts if they can navigate the numerous bunkers, penalty areas, and out-of-bounds stakes. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just starting out, Maplewood Golf Course is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and exciting round of golf near Seattle.
Address: 4050 SE Maple Valley Rd, Renton, WA 98058, United States
Jefferson Park Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts visiting the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Seattle will relish in the opportunity to play a round at the stunning Jefferson Park Golf Course. Managed by Premier Golf Centers LLC and maintained by the City of Seattle, this par 69 course measures over 6,200 yards and boasts exceptional views of the city’s skyline and the iconic Mt. Rainier.
Alongside the main course, there is also a nine-hole Executive course—a perfect option for those tight on time. A driving range and on-site instruction facilities cater to golfers of all levels, with group and individual lessons available. Completed in 1915 and designed by Tom Bendelow, the course is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic golf architecture. With a history stretching back over a hundred years, Jefferson Park Golf Course represents a true golfer’s paradise.
Address: 4101 Beacon Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108, United States
Foster Golf Links
Foster Golf Links, an idyllic golf course in Tukwila, Washington, has entertained golfers since 1925. With its recent remodel in 2004, the facility has undergone significant and impressive changes. Foster’s 18-hole course, located along the scenic Duwamish River, offers players ample opportunities to observe wildlife and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding them.
Additionally, Foster Golf Links offers golfers the chance to improve their skills by practicing on the chipping and putting greens and browsing through the golf essentials at the Foster Golf Shop. Moreover, Billy Baroo satisfies players’ hunger after a long day on the course. With two par 3 holes that allow players to shoot across the majestic river, Foster Golf Links leaves a lasting impression on all players. At 4804 yards with a par-68, Foster Golf Links has something to offer every golfer, from the beginner to the seasoned professional.
Address: 13500 Interurban Ave S, Tukwila, WA 98168, United States
Glen Acres Golf & Country Club
Welcome to Glen Acres, a perfect escape for those looking for a quick golfing get-away. Known as one of the best 9 hole/18 tee golf courses in the Northwest, Glen Acres offers slick greens and a classic A.V. Macan layout that is both fun and surprisingly challenging. With a stunning view of the Seattle skyline as a backdrop, this premier golf, family, and country club is located less than ten minutes from Downtown Seattle. Built in 1925 by George S. Pop Merrit and Vernon Macan, the par 36 course is 3131 yards in length. Thanks to its affordability and amazing location, Glen Acres is a top pick for both scratch and beginning golfers alike.
Address: 1000 S 112th St, Seattle, WA 98168, United States
Nile Shrine Golf Course
Nile Shrine Golf Course has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1968. Designed by architect Norman H. Woods, the course was originally a modest 9-hole setup before being expanded to an impressive 18 holes during the 1990s. Nowadays, the course spans a length of 5010 yards and boasts a par 67 score. But perhaps the most impressive aspect of Nile Shrine is the dedication of its groundskeeper, Peter Echols, and his crew. Every day, they work tirelessly to keep the course in pristine condition, ensuring that golfers experience nothing less than excellence during their rounds. For those looking for a semi-private course that offers a challenging yet enjoyable day out, Nile Shrine is a must-visit destination.
Address: 6601 244th St SW, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043, United States
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned golfer, or somewhere in between, the Seattle area has plenty to offer. From the stunning views of Jefferson Park Golf Course to the historic Nile Shrine Golf Course, there is something for everyone. With these courses at your disposal, you will be sure to have an unforgettable experience on and off the course. So grab your clubs and head out to the Seattle area for an unforgettable golfing experience. Happy swinging!
