Discover your golfing paradise in Ireland's beautiful east
East Ireland is a stunning destination for a golf break, blending natural beauty, vibrant city life, and world-class courses. Its coastline, lakes, and countryside provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable golf experiences, while Dublin adds a lively edge with its culture, history, and nightlife.
From the beautiful stay & play properties of The K Club and Druids Glen to the links brilliance of Portmarnock Old and The Island, golfers are spoilt for choice and variety. Combine championship golf with Dublin’s charm, fine dining, and famous hospitality, and East Ireland becomes the perfect golf destination - whether for a weekend escape or a longer stay-and-play getaway.
Why book a golf break to East Ireland?
- Stay & play at luxury four & five-star golf resorts, inc. The K Club
- Discover 16 of Ireland's best & most natural links courses
- Experience Ireland's vibrant culture & famous nightlife
- Explore stunning coastlines & jaw-dropping scenery
Play the best golf courses in East Ireland
Stretching from the Dublin coastline down to scenic County Wexford, East Ireland is a golfer’s dream destination. This region combines centuries of golfing heritage with some of Europe’s most breathtaking coastal and parkland layouts. From legendary championship links to lush inland fairways, East Ireland offers an unforgettable blend of challenge, beauty, and Irish charm.
Here are some of our favourites:
Portmarnock Golf Club (Old Course) - Dublin
Widely regarded as Ireland’s finest links and consistently ranked among the top 50 courses in the world by Golf Digest and Golf Monthly, Portmarnock’s Old Course embodies the essence of traditional links golf.
Set on a narrow peninsula north of Dublin, every hole is defined by natural contours, shifting sea breezes, and flawless turf. A former host of 19 Irish Opens, it remains a true bucket-list experience - pure, timeless, and uncompromisingly authentic.
The European Club - Brittas Bay, County Wicklow
Designed by legendary Irish architect Pat Ruddy, The European Club is a bold and beautiful modern links masterpiece, ranked among the top 100 courses globally (Golf World).
Carved through towering dunes on the Irish Sea coastline, it offers rugged charm, lightning-fast greens, and an unforgettable test of golf. A favourite of Tiger Woods during his Open Championship preparations.
The Island Golf Club - Donabate, County Dublin
A hidden gem turned world-class destination, The Island is renowned for its towering dunes and stunning seaside routing between the Irish Sea and Rogerstown Estuary.
Now regularly featured in the Top 20 Courses in Ireland (Golf Digest Ireland), it offers a thrilling and authentic links experience full of character, challenge, and natural beauty.
Jameson Links (Portmarnock) - Dublin
Set on the historic Jameson family estate overlooking the Irish Sea, Portmarnock Links, now known as Jameson Links, is a beautifully refined modern links course blending classic seaside character with contemporary flair. Every hole offers a fresh perspective of the Dublin coastline - from the elevated tees of the front nine to the dramatic finish framed by Howth Head.
The course’s clever routing and natural flow make it a joy to play for golfers of all abilities, while its setting beside the luxurious Portmarnock Hotel adds an unmistakable touch of class. Jameson Links perfectly embodies the evolution of Irish links golf - timeless, challenging, and effortlessly elegant.
Palmer North Course, The K Club - County Kildare
Host of the 2006 Ryder Cup and multiple Irish Opens, the Palmer North Course at The K Club is a magnificent parkland layout combining lush fairways, water hazards, and impeccable conditioning.
Designed by Arnold Palmer, it’s both grand and graceful - a course where precision and power are equally rewarded. Expect immaculate presentation and five-star service throughout.
Druids Glen Course - County Wicklow
Affectionately known as the “Augusta of Ireland,” Druids Glen has twice hosted the Irish Open and remains one of Ireland’s most loved inland courses.
Its tree-lined fairways, colourful flora, and dramatic water features create a setting of pure tranquillity. Each hole is meticulously designed to challenge strategy while captivating the senses.
Montgomerie Course, Carton House - County Kildare
Crafted by Colin Montgomerie, this links-style inland course offers a distinctive challenge within the lush Kildare countryside. Featuring deep bunkering, open expanses, and undulating fairways, it brings a touch of Scottish links to the heart of Ireland.
A former Irish Open venue, the Montgomerie Course is a must-play for those seeking championship-calibre golf with a modern twist.
Rosslare Golf Links - County Wexford
Founded in 1905, Rosslare is one of Ireland’s oldest seaside links and the country’s only true links course south of Dublin. Set on a narrow peninsula between Wexford Harbour and the Irish Sea, its firm fairways, rolling dunes, and coastal breezes deliver an honest, invigorating round. A charming and historic stop on Ireland’s southeast coast.
Arklow Golf Club - County Wicklow
Established in 1927, Arklow Golf Club combines old-fashioned links charm with coastal serenity. Its firm fairways, pot bunkers, and salty sea breezes offer an authentic Irish golfing experience.
The course’s friendly atmosphere and seaside views make it a perfect stop for golfers exploring the Wicklow coast.
Travel Tips
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Best time to visit: April to October offers the best golf conditions, with May and September providing mild weather, long days, and quieter fairways.
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Getting there: Fly directly into Dublin Airport or take convenient ferries from the UK to Dublin Port or Rosslare Europort - both ideal gateways for golf along Ireland’s east coast.
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Getting around: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore; most top courses and resorts in Dublin, Wicklow, and Kildare are within an hour’s drive of each other.
Best golf resort breaks in East Ireland
Popular golf tour packages in East Ireland
Best golf in East Ireland
Find the perfect base for your golf break in East Ireland
East Ireland is where championship golf meets exceptional hospitality. From elegant countryside estates to seaside sanctuaries and vibrant city hotels, this region offers a superb collection of resorts designed for relaxation, indulgence, and effortless access to Ireland’s best golf.
Whether you’re looking for a five-star retreat with spa indulgence, a historic estate steeped in tradition, or a coastal escape near Dublin, our handpicked selection brings together the finest golf accommodation in the region.
Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort
County Wicklow | Customer rating: 4.8/5 | 2 courses
Set amidst the “Garden of Ireland,” Druids Glen is one of the country’s premier stay-and-play destinations. The Druids Glen Course, known as the “Augusta of Ireland,” has twice hosted the Irish Open, while Druids Heath provides sweeping sea views. The elegant hotel, luxury spa, and woodland setting make it ideal for both golfers and those simply seeking serenity.
Our experts say... “Druids Glen is simply stunning - from the immaculate fairways to the peaceful spa and gourmet dining, every detail makes it one of Ireland’s must-visit golf resorts.”
County Kildare | Customer rating: 4.9/5 | 2 courses
A true icon of Irish golf, The K Club delivers five-star luxury and championship pedigree in equal measure. Host of the 2006 Ryder Cup and multiple Irish Opens, the Palmer North Course is a masterclass in design and presentation, while the Palmer South offers a scenic, strategic contrast. With opulent interiors, riverside spa, and fine dining, it’s a complete resort experience just 30 minutes from Dublin.
Our experts say... “If you’re after world-class golf paired with true Irish elegance, The K Club is unmatched. Every visit feels like a special occasion.”
County Kilkenny | Customer rating: 4.9/5 | 1 course
A masterpiece of country estate living, Mount Juliet combines five-star service with timeless style. The Jack Nicklaus-designed course has hosted multiple Irish Opens and remains one of Ireland’s finest parkland layouts. The 500-acre estate features a Michelin-starred restaurant, luxury spa, and historic manor house - perfect for a refined and romantic escape.
Our experts say... “Mount Juliet has it all - world-class golf, impeccable service, and one of Ireland’s most beautiful settings. Simply unmissable.”
County Kildare | Customer rating: 4.8/5 | 2 courses
A blend of heritage and sophistication, Carton House features two championship courses - the O’Meara, a scenic parkland, and the Montgomerie, an inland links challenge. The resort’s 18th-century manor and modern Fairmont-managed hotel combine grandeur with contemporary luxury, offering spa relaxation, gourmet dining, and proximity to Dublin.
Our experts say... “Carton House is a masterpiece of heritage and hospitality. The two contrasting courses make it perfect for a weekend of world-class golf.”
Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Links
County Dublin | Customer rating: 4.7/5 | 1 course
Set on the historic Jameson family estate, this seaside resort merges Irish heritage with modern elegance. The newly redesigned Jameson Links provides a captivating links experience with panoramic coastal views, while the hotel’s contemporary design, Seaview Lounge, and spa offer exceptional comfort. Located just 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, it’s perfect for short luxury breaks.
Our experts say... “A perfect choice for a Dublin golf getaway - Jameson Links delivers thrilling coastal golf, and the resort’s seaside setting makes for a memorable stay.”
Knightsbrook Hotel, Golf & Spa Resort
County Meath | Customer rating: 4.5/5 | 1 course
Located in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Knightsbrook is a modern four-star resort offering championship golf designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr. Its full-service spa, leisure club, and excellent dining make it ideal for groups, couples, or families seeking comfort and value.
Our experts say... “Knightsbrook is the ideal choice for a relaxed golf escape - excellent facilities, great value, and a friendly atmosphere throughout.”
County Wicklow | Customer rating: 4.6/5 | 1 course
Set against the backdrop of the Blessington Lakes, Tulfarris offers peace, playability, and natural beauty. The Patrick J. Merrigan-designed course features scenic water views, while the boutique-style hotel and lakeside restaurant create an inviting, tranquil retreat.
Our experts say... “A peaceful resort with breathtaking scenery - Tulfarris offers the perfect blend of playability, relaxation, and Irish charm.”
City & Coastal Golf Stays
For golfers who prefer to stay near the action, East Ireland’s cities and coastal towns offer fantastic hotel bases with easy access to top golf courses and vibrant local life.
The Grand Malahide Hotel - Dublin Coast
A charming seaside hotel overlooking Malahide Marina, just 15 minutes from Portmarnock Golf Club and Jameson Links. Guests enjoy coastal walks, stylish rooms, and proximity to Dublin’s nightlife - ideal for short golf-and-city escapes.
Perfect for those combining golf with sightseeing, Hilton Dublin provides modern comfort, central location, and easy transport links to The K Club, Carton House, and Druids Glen. Excellent choice for golfers wanting flexibility and convenience.
Whites of Wexford - County Wexford
A popular base for playing Rosslare Golf Links and exploring Ireland’s sunny southeast. The hotel offers great dining, a leisure centre, and friendly hospitality in the heart of Wexford town - perfect for relaxed golf tours or weekend breaks.
Golf travel tips for East Ireland
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Things to see & do on the Emerald Isle
While East Ireland is a golfer’s paradise, there’s far more to explore off the course. This region blends vibrant city life, historic landmarks, and stunning natural beauty, offering something for every traveller - from food lovers and history buffs to outdoor adventurers and culture seekers. Whether you’re taking a rest day between rounds or travelling with non-golfers, East Ireland promises unforgettable experiences around every corner.
Discover Dublin’s Charm
Just minutes from several of East Ireland’s top resorts, Dublin is one of Europe’s most welcoming capital cities. Wander through Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells, explore the historic Dublin Castle, or enjoy a pint and live music in the cobbled streets of Temple Bar. Don’t miss a tour of the Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Distillery, both iconic experiences that celebrate Ireland’s rich brewing and distilling heritage.
Top tip: Dublin’s coastal suburbs - like Malahide, Howth, and Dalkey - offer charming harbours, boutique shopping, and some of the best seafood in Ireland.
Explore the Wicklow Mountains
Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” County Wicklow is a natural wonderland of lakes, valleys, and forest trails. Hike to the ancient monastic site of Glendalough, take in the views from Sally Gap, or stroll through the manicured Powerscourt Estate and Gardens often ranked among the world’s finest. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a few days on the fairways.
Must-see: The dramatic Wicklow Mountains National Park, just an hour south of Dublin, offers countless walking routes, scenic drives, and picnic spots.
Embrace Irish History and Heritage
East Ireland is steeped in history. Visit the Hill of Tara, ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland, or explore Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb older than Stonehenge. In Kilkenny, stroll through the medieval streets, tour Kilkenny Castle, and experience the region’s craft and design scene.
For something different, the Irish National Stud & Gardens in County Kildare blends equestrian heritage with peaceful Japanese gardens a hidden gem well worth visiting.
Coastal Escapes and Seaside Villages
If the sea calls, East Ireland’s coastline doesn’t disappoint. Head to Bray or Greystones for scenic cliff walks, enjoy the golden beaches of Brittas Bay, or take a leisurely drive along the Copper Coast for rugged cliffs and charming fishing villages. These coastal spots pair perfectly with nearby golf resorts like Portmarnock or Tulfarris for a day of relaxation and sea air.
Food, Drink & Irish Hospitality
Ireland’s culinary scene has never been better, and East Ireland leads the way. From Michelin-starred restaurants like Lady Helen at Mount Juliet and The Morrison Room at Carton House to cozy gastro pubs serving hearty Irish fare, every meal here tells a story.
Pair it with a tasting at Powerscourt Distillery, Teeling Whiskey, or a pint at a traditional local pub complete with live music and a friendly chat with the locals.
Wellness, Shopping & Culture
For those looking to unwind, many of the region’s resorts boast award-winning spas and wellness retreats. Enjoy a massage at Druids Glen, a yoga session overlooking the Wicklow hills, or some retail therapy in Dublin’s Grafton Street and Kildare Village, home to designer outlets and Irish boutiques.
Cultural enthusiasts can explore the National Gallery of Ireland, EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum, or catch a show at the Abbey Theatre for a dose of authentic Irish storytelling.
Read some of our East Ireland articles below:
Frequently asked questions
Why book with Golfbreaks?
- Trusted expertsOver 25 years’ experience sending more than 3.5 million golfers away
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