Chambers Bay Golf Course | Tacoma

Chambers Bay Golf Course is a world-renowned public golf facility located in University Place, Washington, just south of Tacoma. It is celebrated for its dramatic links-style design, sweeping views of Puget Sound, and challenging yet visually stunning golf experience. Opened in 2007, Chambers Bay was developed on a former sand and gravel quarry site, transformed into an expansive 930-acre park by Pierce County. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., a highly respected golf course architect, who envisioned creating a modern links course that embraces natural terrain and coastal landscapes.

Course Design and Characteristics

Chambers Bay spans approximately 7,585 yards from the championship tees and plays to a par 72. Its design draws heavily from classic Scottish links courses, which are known for their rugged, natural landscapes, undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and native grasses. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, steep slopes, and wide expanses of fescue grasses, which provide a stark contrast to the smoother, manicured fairways typical of many American courses.

The course is noted for its unique “vertical-links” style, which integrates significant elevation changes that are uncommon in traditional links layouts. This verticality adds an extra layer of strategic complexity to play, requiring golfers to carefully select clubs and shot trajectories to navigate uneven lies and strong coastal winds. One distinctive design element is the absence of a defined “line of play” on many holes, encouraging players to be creative with their shots and pick different angles to the greens, making every round unique.

The greens at Chambers Bay are large, multi-tiered, and often surrounded by deep bunkers and native rough, demanding precision and tactical approach shots. The course’s layout is designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels, balancing playability with the demands of tournament competition.

Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability

Chambers Bay is part of an extensive environmental restoration and park development effort. The site was reclaimed from an industrial quarry and converted into a naturalized habitat that supports local wildlife and native plants. The course’s management has been committed to environmental sustainability, earning the Audubon International Silver Sanctuary certification. This recognition reflects careful stewardship of the land, including water conservation, habitat preservation, and the use of native vegetation that reduces the need for intensive maintenance.

Championship Legacy

Chambers Bay rapidly established itself on the national stage when it hosted the 2010 U.S. Amateur Championship, introducing its challenging and scenic layout to top amateur golfers. Its profile soared even higher when it was selected to host the 2015 U.S. Open Championship, one of golf’s four major tournaments. The 2015 U.S. Open was historic for many reasons, with Jordan Spieth capturing his second consecutive major title after a tense final round.

The tournament showcased Chambers Bay’s challenging nature-its firm and fast greens, strong winds, and strategic hazards proved tough for the world’s best players. While the course received some criticism for the condition and speed of the greens during the Open, it also earned praise for its bold, natural design and spectacular setting overlooking Puget Sound.

Following the U.S. Open, Chambers Bay underwent several improvements to enhance playability, especially the greens. Between 2017 and 2019, the course replaced its fine fescue greens with Poa annua grass to provide more consistent surfaces and reduce the extreme speeds that caused difficulties during the championship.

In addition to the U.S. Open, Chambers Bay has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the 2021 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball, the 2022 U.S. Women’s Amateur, and upcoming championships such as the 2027 U.S. Junior Amateur and the 2033 U.S. Amateur, solidifying its status as a premier championship venue.

Playing Experience and Facilities

Chambers Bay is renowned for offering a true walking-only golf experience, aligning with the traditions of links golf. Golf carts are not permitted during normal play, encouraging players to fully engage with the natural terrain and appreciate the course’s scenic beauty. This walking policy also preserves the turf and environment, contributing to the course’s sustainability goals.

The course’s facilities include a clubhouse with the Chambers Bay Grill, serving cuisine inspired by the Pacific Northwest with an emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients. The grill provides a welcoming atmosphere for golfers and visitors, offering spectacular views of the course and Puget Sound.

Practice facilities at Chambers Bay include a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas, catering to golfers looking to warm up or refine their skills. The course also offers membership packages and frequent player programs, accommodating local enthusiasts and regular visitors.

For players seeking instruction, the Chambers Bay Academy provides professional coaching and clinics for all skill levels. Led by PGA professionals, the academy features private lessons, group classes, and a Junior Academy designed to nurture young golfers through structured development and fun learning environments.

Accessibility and Location

Chambers Bay is conveniently located about 35 minutes south of Seattle and roughly 20 minutes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, making it accessible to both local players and tourists. Its proximity to urban centers allows visitors to combine a golfing trip with sightseeing or business travel in the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.

Summary

Chambers Bay Golf Course is a landmark in Pacific Northwest golf, celebrated for its bold links-style design, environmental commitment, and championship pedigree. Its rugged coastal landscape, challenging play, and stunning views of Puget Sound provide a memorable golf experience that combines tradition with modern sustainability. The course’s ability to host prestigious national events alongside welcoming everyday golfers makes it a versatile and prestigious destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.