Chambers Bay

I had a few problems with:

1) The conditions of the fairways and greens. #1 seem to be a temp green, as you could not distinguish the fairway from the green, and the green was in direct route of golfer's teeing off 18. They literally had to wait until I finished the hole to tee off.
2) More disappointing and above all, was finding out this is a STRICTLY WALKING course. Unfortunately that was not explained to me or mentioned from the 3rd party I booked the tee through, until I got down to the range and asked for the location of carts. I was told then that in order to get a cart a note from doctor would have to faxed over. Considering I have titanium in my back the excitement of being there quickly died.
3) I attempted to play the front, but the pain was unbearable by the time I reached #5. This course is not for anyone with metal in their body. However the pro shop (great people) did allow me to return any time and asked that a note from my doctor be faxed in order to use the carts.
4) The staff were great. Essentially their player assistants (marshals) provided me a ride to each hold to cut down on the walking and pain.
5) For the holes I did play there was a lot of "under construction areas." And I realized they are preparing for the Open next year, but I was not expecting the amount of work including netting on #4 (just in front of the green at the top of the hill).
5) The course is located on trail, so expect skateboards, "Dude Perfect" noise, and kids when you are at the tee box, and in some cases on the green putting.

The previous day I played NewCastle, which has unbelievable views of Seattle from afar, bagpipe playing at sunset, a great staff, and extremely lush greens and fairways. My expectation was even higher for Chambers Bay. I will attempt again with a cart and provide a follow up review as well.

This is by far the most stunning course I have seen/played. The views are spectacular and the course is equally impressive. The greens are firm and fast. I agree with the other review about hiring a caddie, as there are too many nuances for a first time player.

I second the dressing in layers as the weather in WA can change quite quickly.

When you step onto the property, you are greeted with a fantastic view looking down over the quarry and the Puget Sound with the lone tree perched near the water. The course looks even more intimidating from above but it's most certainly worth it!

I'm surprised no one has written a review of Chambers Bay yet, especially because of its reputation for being a special golfing experience. Of course, a lot of average golfers have told me they are intimidated by Chambers Bay's reputation as a demanding, physically-punishing course, not to mention the perception that the exorbitant greens fees require taking out a second mortgage. I certainly shared that impression before I played my first round there in 2010, even after volunteering at the U.S. Amateur Championship earlier that year. As a mid-to-high handicap golfer who returned to the game after a long layoff, I expected a "beat down" from this links-style course. My experience turned out to be just the opposite. Here are some tips to help make your Chambers Bay debut more enjoyable:
1. First timers will definitely benefit from hiring a caddie. The crew at Chambers Bay are talented, courteous, and knowledgeable. Not only will a caddie help you save about 10 strokes over your round, he'll make the loop a lot less physically tiring as well. 2. Take advantage of the included warm-up time at the range; it'll help get you accustomed to the firm greens and fairways, plus acclimated to that day's weather conditions, which usually includes wind gusts. 3. Dress in layers, and appropriately for the weather. Walking 18 holes here is closer to hiking in the mountains than a stroll in the park, so rugged, comfortable golf shoes are not optional!

Above all, have fun! The views are fantastic, and when you drop your tee shot just right on #9, watching it roll down next to the hole, you'll be jazzed beyond belief.