Chambers Bay Golf Course isn’t just another place to play 18 holes—it’s a story of vision, transformation, and accessibility. Nestled along the shores of Puget Sound and backed by the majestic Olympic Mountains, this public course in University Place, Washington, offers a rare blend of natural beauty and world-class design.

Unlike many elite golf destinations, Chambers Bay was built with a mission: to be a public facility capable of hosting a U.S. Open. And it did, in 2015. But beyond the prestige, it remains open to everyone, offering an unforgettable experience that’s both challenging and rewarding.

From its origins on reclaimed land to its current status as a must-play course in the Pacific Northwest, Chambers Bay continues to draw players from all over the country. Whether you're planning a visit or just curious about what makes this place so special, you're in for a real treat.

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Table of Contents

• Location & Setting
• A Public Course With Championship Ambitions
• Course Design & Playing Experience
• Booking Tee Times & Waitlist Options
• Tips for Visiting Chambers Bay
• Frequently Asked Questions

Location & Setting

Chambers Bay Golf Course is located southwest of Tacoma, Washington, just outside the city of University Place. Surrounded by the waters of Puget Sound and with views of the Olympic Mountains, the course offers more than just a round of golf—it’s a visual experience.

Set on a former sand and gravel quarry, the land was reclaimed and transformed into a links-style layout that feels more like Scotland than the Pacific Northwest. The natural contours of the land, along with the ever-present wind off the sound, make every round at Chambers Bay feel a little different.

Getting there is pretty straightforward, especially if you're coming from Seattle or Tacoma. It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle and just 10 minutes from downtown Tacoma. For out-of-town visitors, the course is a great stop on any Pacific Northwest golf trip.

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A Public Course With Championship Ambitions

Chambers Bay was developed by Pierce County with a clear goal in mind: to build a public golf course that could host a U.S. Open. That goal became a reality in 2015 when the course hosted the U.S. Open Championship, an event that put Chambers Bay on the national map.

It wasn’t just a one-off event, either. The course was designed with championship play in mind, featuring wide fairways, large greens, and a layout that challenges the best players while still being accessible to the average golfer. That balance is rare for a public course and part of what makes Chambers Bay stand out.

Unlike many elite courses that are private or exclusive, Chambers Bay is open to all. It’s a place where a weekend golfer can walk the same fairways as the pros, which is a pretty cool thing if you ask me. So, it's not just about the views or the layout—it's about the opportunity to play somewhere that's both historic and meaningful in the world of golf.

Course Design & Playing Experience

The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and it shows. From the dramatic elevation changes to the use of natural terrain, Chambers Bay is a masterpiece of modern public course architecture.

One of the most unique features is the use of fescue grasses throughout the course, giving it that classic links feel. The bunkers are deep and penal, and the greens are big and undulating—just like you’d expect on a championship course.

The par-71 layout plays over 7,400 yards from the back tees, but there are forward tees for players of all skill levels. The 18th hole, which plays downhill to a green overlooking Puget Sound, is arguably one of the most memorable finishing holes in the country.

Each round feels a bit different, thanks to the ever-changing wind and the way the course interacts with the natural landscape. Whether you're playing early in the morning or in the late afternoon, the light and conditions shift in ways that can affect your game—so it’s always a bit of a new challenge.

Booking Tee Times & Waitlist Options

If you're planning a trip to Chambers Bay, one of the first things you’ll want to do is check tee times. Since it’s a public course but also a destination spot, times can fill up quickly—especially in the summer months.

The best way to book a tee time is through the official Chambers Bay website. You can reserve a spot online, and the system will show availability based on your selected date and time. If the times you want are already taken, there’s also a waitlist option that lets you sign up for notifications when new tee times become available.

Here’s a quick way to get started:

1. Visit the Chambers Bay tee time page.
2. Select your date and preferred time.
3. If no times are available, click “Join Waitlist” and enter your preferences.
4. You’ll get an email or text when a tee time opens up that matches your request.

It’s a pretty handy system, especially if you're flexible with your schedule. And since the course is open to the public, there’s no membership required to book—just your name and payment info.

Learn more about golf course etiquette and how to prepare for your first round at Chambers Bay on our site.

Tips for Visiting Chambers Bay Golf Course

Whether it's your first time or your tenth, here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your visit:

• Dress for the weather: Wind and rain are common, even in summer, so layers are your friend.
• Bring a rangefinder or GPS: The course has very few yardage markers, so knowing distances is key.
• Walk if you can: The course is walkable, and walking really lets you take in the views and feel of the layout.
• Play early or late: The lighting is amazing during sunrise and sunset, and the course is quieter during those times.
• Bring a camera: There are more than a few photo-worthy moments along the way.

Also, don’t forget to stop by the clubhouse before or after your round. The pro shop has a good selection of gear and souvenirs, and there’s a small restaurant with decent food and a nice view of the course. So, if you're looking to relax after your round, it's a good spot to unwind.

For more info on what to expect, explore our full guide to playing public courses in the Pacific Northwest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chambers Bay Golf Course open to the public?

Yes, Chambers Bay is a public course owned and operated by Pierce County. It’s open to all players, no membership required.

What's the best time of year to play Chambers Bay?

Spring and early fall tend to offer the best weather—mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but can be busy, while winter rounds are possible but weather-dependent.

Can I walk the course at Chambers Bay?

Absolutely! The course is designed to be walkable, and many players choose to walk to fully experience the layout and views. Carts are available if you prefer, but walking is highly recommended.