Gamble Sands, Brewster, Washington
- Craig Smith
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 29
When it comes to bucket-list golf trips, Gamble Sands has always been high on our list. Tucked away in the middle of nowhere in Brewster, Washington, this hidden gem has been delivering good vibes, great golf, and even better memories for years. And now, with big changes coming in 2025, Gamble Sands is about to cement itself as one of the must-visit golf destinations in the country.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Getting to Gamble Sands is part of the adventure—it’s tucked away in the middle of nowhere, and that’s what makes it so special. You have two major airport options, but both require a drive. Spokane International Airport (GEG) is my go-to; it’s a great airport and a much easier experience than Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA). From Spokane, it’s about a 2-hour 25-minute drive, while coming from Seattle will take you closer to 4 hours. If you’re flying in, I highly recommend Spokane for a smoother trip and a shorter drive to one of the most fun courses you’ll ever play.
The Lodging
The lodging at Gamble Sands is easily top 5 for us. It has a distinct brand and a rustic luxury vibe that perfectly complements the golf experience without overshadowing it. Our room had everything you’d want after a long day on the course—a firepit, a rain shower, and great beds (or maybe we were just exhausted). But the best part? We could step right out of our room onto a massive putting green—nearly the size of two football fields. Just writing about it makes me want to book another trip.
The Current Golf Offered at Gamble
Before we get to the big news, let’s talk about what Gamble Sands already offers. Right now, the main draw is The Sands Course, an 18-hole championship course that, to this day, remains one of my all-time favorites. Designed by David McLay Kidd (DMK)—the same architect behind Bandon Dunes and Mammoth Dunes—this course is all about fun, wide fairways, crazy undulations, and massive, strategically placed bunkers. Every hole feels unique, and some are downright unforgettable.
From a playability standpoint, The Sands Course is as pure as it gets—generous landing areas, firm and fast conditions, and an emphasis on creativity over punishment. It stretches to 7,227 yards from the tips, but with multiple tee options, it’s approachable for golfers of all skill levels. The course consistently earns high praise, sitting at #1 in Washington and a Top 50 Public Course in the U.S. according to multiple rankings. Here is a flyover of every hole Gamble Sands Flyover every hole
The Cherry on Top: Quicksands
If The Sands Course is the main event, then Quicksands is the perfect cherry on top. This 14-hole short course is all about pure fun—no scorecards, no pressure, just golf the way it should be. Shoes? Optional. Playing in a big group? Absolutely. And to top it all off, there are speakers throughout the course blasting music, creating an atmosphere that’s as laid-back as it gets.
Every hole has its own personality, with wild greens, crazy slopes, and plenty of opportunities for creative shot-making. Whether you’re dialing in your wedge game or just out for a good time, Quicksands is one of the most fun golf experiences you’ll ever have. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a round on The Sands Course—or to settle a few bets with your buddies. You only need 120 Yard club and down.
Our only critique of Gamble Sands...
We’ve made the journey to Gamble Sands twice since it opened, and from the very first visit, we had just one knock—we wished there was one more course. When you’re traveling this far for golf, having 36 championship holes plus the Quicksands 14-hole short course would truly put it in the same conversation as Streamsong, Sand Valley, and the other top golf destinations.
And now, that’s exactly what they’re doing. David McLay Kidd is back, designing a second course at Gamble Sands, and from what we’ve seen, it looks absolutely phenomenal. Kidd is one of the best in the game, and honestly, he’s a huge part of what makes Gamble Sands so special. His designs are fun, memorable, and most importantly—playable. Unlike a lot of bucket list courses that can beat you up, Gamble Sands is pure enjoyment from start to finish.
Designed by David McLay Kidd, the mastermind behind the Sands Course, Scarecrow is set to take everything we love about Gamble Sands and turn it up a notch. If it’s anything like DMK’s past work, expect wide fairways, massive greens, and plenty of fun shot options, all wrapped in that signature playable-yet-challenging design that makes his courses so enjoyable.
Whether you’re planning a buddies’ trip or just want to experience one of the most unique golf destinations out there, this is the year to make it happen.
So start rounding up your crew, set your sights on June or July when Scarecrow opens and get ready to add Gamble Sands to the top of your golf bucket list. Trust us—this is one trip you won’t regret.
What do you think? Ready to lock it in? And don't hesitate to DM us if you have any questions!
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