eXplore Seattle

Seattle’s proximity to mountains, water, and evergreen forests makes it one of the premier golf regions in the Pacific Northwest. Within an hour’s drive of downtown, golfers can enjoy championship-caliber courses, affordable municipal tracks, and breathtaking views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday round or planning a full weekend golf adventure, here are five of the best public courses near Seattle—each offering unique play experiences, stunning scenery, and accessible options for golfers of all levels.

⛳ 1. Chambers Bay – University Place, WA (~1 hour from Seattle)

• Designer: Robert Trent Jones II

• Claim to Fame: Host of the 2015 U.S. Open

• Course Style: True links-style with dramatic elevation changes

• Walking Only: Yes (caddies and push carts available)

• Highlights:

  • Towering sand dunes and firm, fast fairways

  • Unparalleled views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains

  • Fescue-lined fairways that transport you to Scotland

  • A premium municipal course that feels like a private resort

Pro Tip: Play it early in the morning or near sunset for unforgettable light across the Sound.

⛳ 2. The Golf Club at Newcastle – Newcastle, WA (~20 mins from Seattle)

• Designers: Robert E. Cupp & Fred Couples

• Courses: Coal Creek & China Creek (36 total holes)

• Style: Championship layouts with stunning elevation and skyline views

• Highlights:

  • Panoramic vistas of Seattle, Lake Washington, and Mount Rainier

  • Resort-style clubhouse, dining, and wedding/event facilities

  • Coal Creek is more challenging; China Creek is more forgiving

  • Well-maintained, upscale public golf with a Scottish castle-style clubhouse

Pro Tip: Coal Creek at sunset is one of the most beautiful rounds you’ll play in the state.

⛳ 3. The Home Course – DuPont, WA (~1 hour from Seattle)

• Owned By: PNGA and Washington Golf

• Style: Championship-caliber, walkable layout

• Green Fees: Weekdays ~$54 | Weekends ~$66

• Highlights:

  • Excellent conditioning at reasonable rates

  • Mountain and water views without the premium price tag

  • Spike-free policy keeps greens in top condition

  • Often used for USGA qualifiers

Pro Tip: A perfect alternative to Chambers Bay—less expensive but equally scenic.

⛳ 4. Washington National Golf Club – Auburn, WA (~35 mins from Seattle)

• Designer: John Fought

• Home Course Of: UW Men’s and Women’s Golf Teams

• Style: Championship layout with a collegiate twist

• Highlights:

  • Purple and gold accents and Husky memorabilia throughout

  • Wide fairways and elevated greens demand smart play

  • Accommodates all skill levels with tees from 5,100–7,300 yards

  • Collegiate prestige in a public setting

Heads Up: Solo golfers can’t book tee times in advance—must walk on.

⛳ 5. West Seattle Golf Course – Seattle, WA (~10 mins from downtown)

• Established: 1940

• Style: Municipal layout with character and affordability

• Green Fees: Accessible rates, especially off-peak

• Highlights:

  • Flat, forgiving front nine along Longfellow Creek

  • Hilly, wind-swept back nine tests strategy and shotmaking

  • Convenient for quick rounds and urban golfers

  • Diverse layout makes it a favorite for repeat play

Pro Tip: Afternoon winds on the back nine can change everything—plan accordingly!