Madrona Links Golf Course: approachable public golf in Gig Harbor

Madrona Links Golf Course in Gig Harbor is a shorter public track that asks for smart tee selection and patient approach play. The round moves quickly when you keep the ball in position and play to the bigger parts of the greens.

Madrona Links Golf Course Fast Facts

Course Overview

Madrona Links Golf Course dates to 1978 with a design by Ken Tyson and a focus on playable golf for a wide range of players. The scorecard shows an 18 hole par 71 with a back tee total of 5602 yards. Greens are a point of pride here, with consistent surfaces that locals talk about, and a routing that mixes short par 4 holes with three par 5 holes. It is an easy place to get around and a good option when you want to keep a round under four hours.

The decision making is straightforward. Choose a tee that leaves full swings into greens. Accept center green targets when pins are tight, and plan second shots on par 5 holes around a comfortable wedge yardage rather than raw distance. Par 3 holes vary from the low 140s to just over 200 yards from the back tees, so club selection matters and wind can change the number quickly. Ground or aerial works fine depending on firmness on the day.

Hole-by-Hole Highlights

• Back tees total 5602 yards for a par 71. If you are new to the course, consider moving up one set for the first visit.

• Front nine includes two par 5 holes that reward placement first, then a clear decision for your layup yardage.

• Several par 4 holes play under 330 yards from the back tees. Favor position and a full wedge rather than forcing driver.

• Par 3 yardages run from roughly 142 to just over 200 yards on the card. Take the number to the middle and two putt when in doubt.

• Back nine brings one par 5 and a run of short and medium par 4 holes that can build a score if you keep the ball in front of you.

• When approaches are between clubs, choose the option that keeps the long miss away from trouble and leaves an uphill putt when possible.

• Expect honest green speeds that reward pace control. Long range lag putting is a useful skill here.

• Morning starts tend to move well. Twilight often offers a calmer pace for walkers.

Amenities & Practice

The property includes a pro shop, banquet space for groups, and an on site restaurant and lounge. A driving range is available and range tokens are sold. Power carts, pull carts, and rental clubs are offered. Instruction is available through staff programming.

Food & Beverage

Hackers Bar and Grill operates on site with a posted menu.

Rates / Booking / Local Tips

Book online or by phone. The course posts seasonal green fees, cart rentals, and walking twilight windows. As of August 2025, the official rates page lists summer green fees, a separate twilight schedule, and rental pricing. If you plan to walk, the twilight periods are a good value and the routing works well at that time. For weekend play at Madrona Links Golf Course, secure a morning time if you want the steadiest pace.

How to Score Here

• On Madrona Links Golf Course, pick the tee that gives you full iron swings into most greens. That keeps the round stress free.

• On short par 4 holes, aim for your favorite wedge yardage rather than maxing out the tee shot.

• Treat the par 5 holes as placement, layup, and a confident wedge number. Do not chase back pins across trouble.

• Par 3 yardages vary, so build a simple routine. Commit to the middle when wind shifts or when you are between clubs.

Final Word

Madrona Links Golf Course offers a friendly Gig Harbor round with simple choices, good greens, and a pace that fits into a busy day.

This course is one of many featured in the Washington Golf Directory. Your guide to Washington State public golf courses, local driving ranges, and weekend-worthy golf getaways. Whether you’re playing nine before work or planning a road trip across the state, we’re here to help you explore more golf, one course at a time.