Chambers Bay

Chambers Bay is a unique golf course. And golfers that have never played true links golf will be blown away by it. Even though the dunes on the property aren't "natural" they certainly feel as if they are. And this combined with the fescue mix of grasses produces an authentic Irish links experience. But keep in mind, this isn't an experience that is enjoyed by all golfers. It's a tough walk, can be VERY windy, highly challenging, and golfers will face shots they have never seen before. Those that like a more predictable and comfortable form of golf will be intimidated and uncomfortable. But the right attitude can yield one of the most memorable golf days in your life.

I'm not sure what reaction Chambers Bay will receive from the pros in the U.S. Open #I'm guessing mixed#. Chambers Bay is a bold selection by the USGA. It won't look or feel like a U.S. Open. The setup will be critical. It's a golf course that could quickly get away from officials and "cross the line." I hope it doesn't. Regardless of the U.S. Open outcome this is a bucket list golf course for avid golfers.

Chambers Bay is a walk on the wild side. It will challenge you mentally and physically. It's relentless. While a caddie is not required, it is a wise investment. Kemper Sports managed facilities have phenomenal caddies. And you need their expert advice for at least the first couple of times you play this course. And I'm not talking about just reading the greens. There are blind tee shots and hidden sideboards around the greens that caddies will point out.

Here are a few pointers. Fescue grass is not perfect. The greens are inconsistent in speed and firmness. You will be fooled by putts. You will miss some short putts that "bump." Don't take it personally.Although the fairways are wide, your ball will run out into the rough. Be careful walking in the rough. It's very east to twist an ankle. Embrace the ground aspect of links golf. Put the ball on the ground quickly and watch it run out. You may find that you like the creativity involved in this style of play.

PLAY THE PROPER TEES FOR YOUR SKILL LEVEL. Leave your ego at home.

Bring Advil. After 7 and a half miles on uneven ground you will need it.

Try the clam chowder and fish and chips in the restaurant. I'd suggest a little Tabasco on both.

And finally. Bring a camera!

Not sure why it took me so long to play Chambers Bay but I'm glad I finally did. This course is a treasure to have in our backyard. Since it was my first time, I got a caddie, Steve, and he was awesome. We had a great time. I booked as a single that filled out a foursome. This seems to be the trend for Hot Deals at CB. If you book as a single I hope you get paired with 3 folks like I did, great guys! Each hole has its own unique challenges and spectacular views. After finishing the hole, I recommend you look back at fairway and admire the view and challenges you just survived. ha. I can't wait to play it again.

From the clubhouse greeting to the shuttle dropping me off, the staff are always helpful and friendly. Couldn't of had any better weather and the views were outstanding. Thank you for having me

Fairways are like greens at your local muni. Greens are exceptional. Course layout very challenging. I walked 11 miles. Get a caddy your first time for sure. Staff friendliness is above any other course I’ve played. This is my favorite course by a long shot.

Hope of the 2015 US Open did not disappoint!

Slow pace because of the mandatory walking!

We walked 8.5 miles. A fair value at $200 or less! Not worh any more!

Great weather- sunny day. The course conditions were excellent - fast greens

My first time playing Chambers bay and thoroughly enjoyed the course and my caddie. I was paired with a father and his 2 teenage sons, all good players but the boys did not have any gold etiquette. They were very nice people but difficultto play with. If I was at a local muni it would be more understandable, but why at Chambers bay??. It's actually quite hard to disrupt me especially at such a beautiful place . It's always a risk going as a single but most times you meet like minded people. Sadly that wasn't the case today

I was unsure what to expect. The course was in impeccable condition and had views that are inspiring. 38-41 for a 79 was a pleasant surprise. Get a caddie. It’s worth the spend.

Always a beautiful challenge. Prepare to burn some calories.

Great layout and challenging.

Elevation changes keep one thinking on club selection

Layup distance and approaches definitely keep one thinking especially with quick greens

1st time ever playing a course that’s hosted a modern Tour Event/Major, it was fun beyond belief. The staff were super helpful & nice (shoutout to Chris the Starter) the range on course had complimentary extra small buckets of balls (Taylormade Tour Response) the practice green was massive & push/pull carts are free to use w/ a tee time. I got paired up w/ some locals who were super helpful w/ lines off the tee box, where to land it around/on green, and just general knowledge of the place. I carried my bag the whole 18 (i usually use a pushcart back home in SoCal) and it wasn’t that tough of a walk even on the holes that have large ascents/descents, thought my legs would be dead by 17th but made it through the whole round plus the walk to the lower parking lot just fine. Personally i don’t like the PNW due to it’s gloomy/rainy weather and can care less about the views of the “sound” but even so Chambers is beautiful in a golf sense, as a links style fanboy i’m so happy i racked up enough golfnow points to get a massive discount on the tee time.

This is a true links style course that is very fun to play. No trees. The waste areas and the undulating greens are the defense. Staff is very friendly. Walking only course that requires some strong legs and patience as it takes over 4.5 hours with 4 golfers to play even without holdups. When it is busy, expect 5 hours or more. The course is expensive during the good weather but you can get deals off season and play the course as true links conditions :-)