Golf Trip to Ireland? Everything you need to know about the golf courses

My husband in his retirement has become an avid golfer and is constantly looking to play the best golf courses in Ireland. Of course Royal Portrush Golf Club is on his Golf Bucket List but he better win the lottery before he attempts to book that course.

Ireland is a dream destination for golf enthusiasts. The country is home to some of the world’s most iconic and challenging golf courses, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and worldclass design. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, Ireland’s golf courses promise an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best courses, their features, locations, access, and costs. I will tell you in advance that I refuse to add the Doonbeg Golf Course because it belongs to the great orange menace.

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What are the best golf courses in Ireland?

When it comes to the best golf courses in Ireland, you can’t ignore the iconic links courses that hug the rugged coastline. Some of my husband’s personal favorites include Ballybunion and Waterville. For a more parkland experience, Portmarnock and Royal County Down are absolute gems. Each course offers unique challenges and stunning views—truly a golfer’s paradise!

Why is Ireland famous for golf?

Ireland is often hailed as one of the greatest golf destinations in the world due to its rich golfing history and incredible natural landscapes. The country boasts over 400 golf courses in Ireland, including some of the top 100 courses globally. The charming golf clubs are set against the backdrop of the Irish Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, making every round a scenic adventure!

What should I know before playing golf in Ireland?

Before you tee off, remember that the weather can be a bit unpredictable! Always be prepared for a sudden shower, and don’t forget your windbreaker. Also, many golf courses in Ireland require you to book in advance, especially during peak season, so plan your golf trip accordingly. Lastly, respect the local etiquette—golfers here are friendly but appreciate good manners on the course!

Are there any famous golf tournaments held in Ireland?

Absolutely! Ireland has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the Irish Open and various golf trips featuring renowned players. The 2024 Irish Open is set to attract a lot of attention, and if you’re around, you won’t want to miss it! Watching the pros play on some of the best courses in Ireland is an experience you’ll never forget.

Can you recommend a good golf resort in Ireland?

One of the top picks for a golf resort is the luxurious Adare Manor. It features an exceptional golf course designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. 

Who are some famous Irish golfers and where do or did they play in Ireland?

Ireland has produced several worldclass golfers who have made significant impacts on the sport. Here are some of the most famous Irish golfers and where they have played:

Rory McIlroy

Achievements: One of the most successful golfers of his generation, Rory McIlroy has won multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship.

Where He Plays: McIlroy plays on both the PGA Tour and the European Tour. He is a member of several prestigious golf clubs, including Holywood Golf Club in Northern Ireland, where he grew up.

Padraig Harrington

Achievements: Harrington is a threetime major champion, having won The Open Championship twice and the PGA Championship once.

Where He Plays: Harrington plays on the PGA Tour and the European Tour. He is associated with Stackstown Golf Club in Dublin, where he learned to play golf.

Shane Lowry

Achievements: Lowry won The Open Championship in 2019 and has multiple victories on the European Tour.

Where He Plays: Lowry plays on both the PGA Tour and the European Tour. He is a member of Esker Hills Golf Club in County Offaly, where he honed his skills.

Graeme McDowell

 Achievements: McDowell won the U.S. Open in 2010 and has multiple victories on both the PGA Tour and the European Tour.

Where He Plays: McDowell plays on the PGA Tour and the European Tour. He is associated with Rathmore Golf Club in Northern Ireland.

Darren Clarke

 Achievements: Clarke won The Open Championship in 2011 and has numerous victories on the European Tour.

 Where He Plays: Clarke plays on the European Tour and the Champions Tour. He is a member of Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland.

Paul McGinley

Achievements: McGinley is best known for his Ryder Cup performances, including the famous winning putt in 2002. He also captained the European Ryder Cup team to victory in 2014.

Where He Plays: McGinley plays on the European Tour and is associated with Stackstown Golf Club in Dublin.

Can I take my own golf clubs to Ireland from the USA or Canada?

Yes, you can take your own golf clubs to Ireland from the USA or Canada. Most airlines allow golf clubs as part of your checked baggage, but it’s important to check the specific baggage policies of the airline you’re flying with, as fees and weight restrictions may apply. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth process:

1. Check Airline Policies: Confirm the airline’s rules for sports equipment, including size, weight, and any additional fees. Some airlines may count golf clubs as part of your checked baggage allowance, while others may charge an extra fee.

2. Pack Your Clubs Properly: Use a sturdy travel bag or hard case designed for golf clubs to protect them during transit. Consider adding extra padding or a stiff arm to prevent damage.

3. Check Weight Limits: Ensure your golf bag and clubs are within the airline’s weight limits to avoid excess baggage fees.

4. Insurance: Consider insuring your golf clubs, especially if they are valuable, in case of loss or damage during travel.

5. Customs and Declarations: When entering Ireland, you generally don’t need to declare personal items like golf clubs unless they are new and potentially subject to duty. However, it’s always good to check the latest customs regulations.

6. Rental Options: If you prefer not to travel with your clubs, many golf courses in Ireland offer rental sets, though bringing your own ensures you’re playing with equipment you’re comfortable with.

17 of the best golf courses in Ireland

Ballybunion Golf Club (Old Course), County Kerry

Location: Ballybunion, County Kerry, on the southwest coast of Ireland.

Description: The Ballybunion Old Course is a true masterpiece, often ranked among the top courses in the world. Designed by nature and refined by man, this links course features towering dunes, undulating fairways, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The back nine, in particular, is renowned for its dramatic holes carved into the rugged coastline.

Cost: A round at Ballybunion typically costs between €200€250 during peak season (AprilOctober), with reduced rates in the offseason.

Royal Portrush Golf Club, Northern Ireland

Location: Dunluce Road, Portrush, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Description: Royal Portrush is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the world and the only course in Ireland to have hosted The Open Championship (in 1951 and 2019). The Dunluce Links, designed by Harry Colt, is the crown jewel of the club, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience with stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean and the Giant’s Causeway. The course is known for its undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens, making it a true test of skill for even the most seasoned golfers.

Cost: A round at Portrush depends on the season and ranges from  £90  $340 during peak season (April – October), with reduced rates in the offseason.

Old Head Golf Links, County Cork

Location: Old Head Kinsale, County Cork

Description: Perched on a narrow peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, Old Head Golf Links in County Cork is one of the most visually stunning courses in the world. The course, designed by Ron Kirby and Paddy Merrigan, features nine holes that play along the cliff edges, offering panoramic views of the ocean from every angle. The dramatic setting, combined with challenging winds and strategically placed hazards, makes Old Head a mustplay for any golf enthusiast.  

Cost: This is high end golf. The green fee is €395 Euros and you won’t get past the guard at the front door without a tee time booked.

Rosapenna (Old Tom Morris Links), Downings, County Donegal

Location: Sheephaven Bay, Rosepenna, Downings, Co. Donegal,

Description: Located in the remote and rugged beauty of County Donegal, on the Wild Atlantic Way Rosapenna Golf Club is home to the Old Tom Morris Links, one of the oldest courses in Ireland. Designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris in 1891, this classic links course has been updated over the years but still retains its traditional charm. The course is known for its natural dunes, rolling fairways, and challenging greens, all set against the backdrop of Sheephaven Bay and the surrounding mountains. 

Cost:  Day visitor: €200 in 2025

Enniscrone Golf Club, County Sligo

Location: Bartragh, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo

Description: Enniscrone Golf Club, situated on the Wild Atlantic Way in County Sligo, offers a thrilling links experience. The Dunes Course, designed by Eddie Hackett and later enhanced by Donald Steel, winds through towering sand dunes and offers breathtaking views of Killala Bay and the Ox Mountains. The course is known for its dramatic elevation changes, blind shots, and challenging greens, making it a favorite among links purists. 

Cost: Green fees at Enniscrone Golf Club start at €135 per round, regardless of day of the week. 

Carne Golf Links, County Mayo

Location: Carne, Belmullet

Description: Carne Golf Links, located in Belmullet, County Mayo, is one of Ireland’s most remote and unspoiled courses. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the course is set amidst towering sand dunes and offers a true test of links golf. The wild and untamed landscape, combined with the everchanging Atlantic winds, creates a unique and unforgettable golfing experience. 

Cost: Green fees €65  €140

The Island Golf Club, County Dublin

Location: Corballis, Donabate

Description: Just a short drive from Dublin, The Island Golf Club is a hidden treasure on the east coast of Ireland. This classic links course, redesigned by Martin Hawtree, is set amidst rolling dunes and offers a challenging yet fair test of golf. The course is known for its natural beauty, strategic bunkering, and fastrunning fairways. 

Cost: Green fees are €270 per person on weekdays and €295 per person on weekends

Portsalon Golf Club

Location: Fanad Way, Croaghross, Portsalon

Description: Portsalon Golf Club, located on the shores of Lough Swilly in County Donegal, is one of the most scenic and underrated courses in Ireland. The course, designed by Charles Thompson and later updated by Pat Ruddy, offers a mix of parkland and linksstyle holes, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. 

Cost: Green fees start at €70 and go up to €170

County Donegal Golf Club (Murvagh) County Donegal

Location: Murvagh, County Donegal, in the northwest of Ireland.

Description: County Donegal Golf Club is a hidden gem is one of Ireland’s most scenic and challenging links courses. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the course is set on a secluded peninsula surrounded by Donegal Bay and the Blue Stack Mountains. The layout features undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens, with the everpresent wind adding to the challenge.

Cost: Green fees are around €100€120 during peak season, making it an excellent value for a worldclass links experience.

County Sligo Golf Club (Rosses Point), County Sligo

Location: Rosses Point, County Sligo, on the northwest coast of Ireland.

Description: Known as “Rosses Point,” this championship links course is one of Ireland’s most beloved. Designed by Harry Colt, the course offers stunning views of Benbulben Mountain, Knocknarea, and the Atlantic Ocean. The layout is both strategic and scenic, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging greens.

Cost: Green fees range from €150€180 during peak season, with reduced rates for twilight rounds and offpeak play.

County Louth Golf Club (Baltray), County Louth

Location: Baltray, County Louth, on the east coast of Ireland.

Description: Known as “Baltray,” this links course is a favorite among Irish golfers and has hosted the Irish Open multiple times. Designed by Tom Simpson and later refined by Eddie Hackett, the course features a classic links layout with rolling dunes, tight fairways, and fast greens. The proximity to the Irish Sea adds an extra layer of challenge, especially on windy days.

Cost: Green fees are around €150 – €180 during peak season, with discounts available for early or late rounds.

Royal County Down Golf Club, Northern Ireland

Location: Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland, at the foot of the Mourne Mountains.

Description: Royal County Down is often regarded as the most beautiful golf course in the world. Its Championship Course is a challenging links course with narrow fairways, blind shots, and deep bunkers. The course is framed by the stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea, creating a truly magical setting.

Cost: Green fees range from €250€300 during peak season, with lower rates available in the winter months.

Lahinch Golf Club (Old Course), County Clare

Location: Lahinch, County Clare, on the west coast of Ireland.

Description: Lahinch’s Old Course is a classic links course in County Clare (where the Cliffs of Moher are) that combines natural beauty with a challenging layout. Designed by Old Tom Morris and later refined by Alister MacKenzie, the course features blind shots, massive dunes, and fast greens. The famous “Dell” hole, a par3 with a blind tee shot, is a highlight for many golfers.

Cost: Green fees are around €200€220 during peak season, with discounts available for twilight rounds and offpeak times.

The Island Golf Club, County Dublin

Location: The Island Golf Club is located in Donabate, County Dublin, approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Dublin city center. It is situated on a narrow peninsula surrounded by the Irish Sea

Description:  The Island Golf Club is a classic links course that has been a wellkept secret among golf enthusiasts for decades. Originally designed in the late 19th century, the course was significantly updated by renowned architect Martin Hawtree in the early 2000s, enhancing its natural features while maintaining its traditional links character.

The course is set amidst rolling sand dunes and offers a challenging yet fair test of golf. One of the standout features of The Island is its seclusion and natural beauty. The course is surrounded by water on three sides, providing stunning views of the Irish Sea and the nearby Lambay Island.

The course is walkable, and many golfers choose to carry their bags or use a caddie to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Cost: Green fees are €270 per person on weekdays and €295 per person on weekends

Portmarnock Golf Club, County Dublin

Location: Portmarnock, County Dublin, just north of Dublin city.

Description: Portmarnock is a classic links course that has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Irish Open. The course is known for its strategic design, with tight fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging greens. The absence of housing or development around the course adds to its serene and timeless atmosphere.

Cost: Green fees range from €220€250 during peak season, with reduced rates available for afternoon and winter play.

Waterville Golf Links, County Kerry

Location: Waterville, County Kerry, on the Ring of Kerry.

Description: Waterville is a stunning links course in County Kerry (home of the Ring of Kerry) that offers a true test of golf. Designed by Eddie Hackett and later enhanced by Tom Fazio, the course features wide fairways, large greens, and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Cost: Green fees are approximately €200€220 during peak season, with lower rates available in the offseason.

Tralee Golf Club, County Kerry

Location: Tralee, County Kerry, on the southwest coast of Ireland.

Description: Designed by Arnold Palmer, Tralee is a visually stunning links course that hugs the coastline. The back nine is particularly memorable, with holes carved into cliffs and offering panoramic views of the ocean. The course is both challenging and rewarding, with a mix of riskreward holes.

Cost: Green fees are around €180€200 during peak season, with discounts available for early or late rounds.

The European Club, County Wicklow

Location: Brittas Bay, County Wicklow, in Ireland’s Ancient East

Description: Designed by Pat Ruddy, The European Club is a hidden gem in the Wicklow Mountains that offers a true test of links golf. The course features deep bunkers, rolling dunes, and stunning views of the Irish Sea. With 20 holes (two of which are optional), the course provides a unique and memorable experience.

Cost: Green fees are approximately €180-€200 during peak season.

Tips for Golfing in Ireland

Book in Advance: Many of Ireland’s top courses are in high demand, so it’s essential to book tee times well in advance, especially during the summer months.

Pack for the Weather: Irish weather can be unpredictable, so bring waterproof gear and layers to stay comfortable on the course.

Consider a Golf Tour: Many companies offer golf tours that include transportation, accommodations, and tee times at multiple courses, making it easier to experience Ireland’s golfing highlights.

Golfing in Ireland is more than just a sport—it’s an experience that combines worldclass courses with breathtaking scenery and warm Irish hospitality. From the rugged coastlines of County Kerry to the serene beauty of County Down, Ireland’s golf courses offer something for every golfer. While the cost of a round at these prestigious courses can be high, the memories you’ll take home are truly priceless. So pack your clubs, book your tee times, and get ready to tee off in one of the most beautiful golfing destinations in the world.