Experience the magic of golf in Ireland & receive a welcome unlike any other
A golf trip to Ireland is like stepping into another world, where great golf takes center stage, where the pace of life is refreshingly relaxed and the welcome really is as warm as its reputation suggests.
Whether it’s the bucket-list tour of the South West that takes in Payne Stewart’s beloved Waterville and the legend that is Ballybunion, a Northern Ireland itinerary that covers the powerhouse Royals of Portrush and County Down or even a voyage of discovery to seek out the wild golfing secrets of the North West, we’ve got all of Ireland covered. Check out our best-selling Irish golf vacations to plan your next unforgettable trip.
Why book an Ireland golf trip?
- Visit the home of a quarter of the world’s natural links courses
- Experience incredible scenery & rugged landscape
- Enjoy the wonderfully friendly & hospitable people
- Immerse yourself in amazing pubs, restaurants & nightlife
- Direct flights into Dublin & Shannon from North America
- Taste the fresh Guinness & join in on the great Craic
Unbelievable golf, beautiful scenery & great craic
Golf in Ireland is truly magical. From the stunning natural links to the beautiful scenery, the Emerald Isle is a popular destination and it's clear to see why. A plethora of golf awaits you, with a great selection of hotels just outside the big cities, as well as golf resorts, allowing you to choose between staying in one place or experiencing the culture while enjoying a Guinness.
From the picturesque countryside and windswept courses on the rugged coastline to courses near vibrant cities, Ireland offers something for every golfer. Whether you play in Lough Erne, Dublin, Cork, or Kerry, many of the courses boast spectacular scenery and are regarded as some of the best golf courses in Ireland.
Dublin
A vibrant capital with world-famous links courses.
Dublin offers the perfect blend of lively city life and top-tier golf. Known for its fantastic Guinness and pub culture, it’s easy to see why Dublin is a favorite for golf travelers. Just outside the city, you’ll find some of Ireland’s most storied courses.
Top Courses in Dublin:
Portmarnock Golf Club – A historic links with a classic layout and incredible views, Portmarnock is just 10 miles from the city and consistently ranked among the best courses in the world. The European Club – Nestled along the rugged coastline of County Wicklow, this world-renowned links course offers a challenging and unforgettable golfing experience just an hour south of Dublin. Designed by Pat Ruddy, it combines stunning sea views with a modern take on traditional links golf.
Check out the best golf courses in Dublin!
North West Ireland
Rugged beauty and hidden gems.
North West Ireland is a haven for golfers looking to escape the crowds and discover some of the most breathtaking, under-the-radar courses in the country. Home to County Sligo, Donegal, and Galway, this region is a treasure.
Top Courses in North West Ireland:
Carne Golf Links – Set in the remote dunes of County Mayo, Carne offers a dramatic and unforgettable links experience that feels like a journey back in time. St. Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna – Set against the stunning backdrop of Donegal’s Atlantic coastline, this spectacular links course is a masterpiece by Tom Doak. As part of the historic Rosapenna Golf Resort, it delivers a pure, windswept golf experience in one of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural settings.
Check out the best golf courses in North West Ireland!
Northern Ireland
Home to some of the most iconic courses in the world.
Northern Ireland has earned global recognition for its championship golf courses and scenic splendor. From dramatic coastlines to historic clubhouses, and Belfast offering top-tier dining, nightlife, and culture, this region is a must for any golf enthusiast.
Top Courses in Northern Ireland:
Royal Portrush Golf Club – Host of the 2019 Open Championship, Royal Portrush is a spectacular links that challenges even the most seasoned players. Royal County Down Golf Club – Widely considered one of the top golf courses in the world, Royal County Down sits beneath the Mourne Mountains and offers a magical setting and a world-class layout.
Check out the best golf courses in Northern Ireland!
South West Ireland
Links legends in Ireland’s most picturesque region.
With rolling green hills, seaside cliffs, and charming towns, South West Ireland is the crown jewel of Irish golf. Some of the best towns include Cork, Killarney, and Limerick. This region is often compared to St Andrews and is perhaps the best place in the world to play golf.
Top Courses in South West Ireland:
Ballybunion Golf Club – Old Course – A legendary links that combines tradition, challenge, and stunning seaside views, Ballybunion is a rite of passage for serious golfers. Lahinch Golf Club – Perched on the wild Atlantic coast of County Clare, Lahinch is a classic Irish links course with over a century of history. Known for its quirky charm, dramatic dunes, and ever-changing sea breezes, it offers a thrilling and authentic test of golf in a truly iconic setting.
Check out the best golf courses in South West Ireland!
Tips for Making the Most of Your Ireland Golf Vacation
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Best Time to Visit: May through September offers the best weather—mild temperatures, longer days, and optimal course conditions. Spring and early fall also offer great value with fewer tourists.
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Accommodation: Stay at world-class resorts like Adare Manor, Trump Doonbeg, or The K Club. Boutique inns and charming B&Bs near top courses also offer authentic Irish hospitality.
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Travel Tips: Book tee times in advance, especially during peak season. Many resorts offer stay-and-play packages that include accommodations, golf, and additional amenities.
Discover the best golf courses in Ireland
Ireland is blessed with some of the finest golf courses in the world, headlined by the outstanding Royal County Down and the breathtaking Ballybunion Golf Club. With nearly 20% of the world's true links courses, Ireland is a paradise for lovers of oceanfront golf. An Ireland golf trip promises unparalleled golfing experiences.
Wherever you choose to play golf in Ireland, the courses are set in unique, stunning locations across the North, South, East, and West. The country’s miles of unspoiled natural landscape and glorious scenery make it an unmatched destination for a golf vacation. Some of Ireland's best courses include...
Royal County Down Ranked the third-best golf course on the Top 100 Golf Courses and a three-time host of the Irish Open, Royal County Down is nestled in the Mountains of Mourne. Expect blind drives, pristine conditions, and picturesque views on this magnificent course.
Ballybunion Golf Club – Old Course Located in County Kerry, Ballybunion is one of the most iconic links golf courses in Ireland. Its dramatic dunes and seaside views make for an exhilarating round that tests skill and creativity.
Royal Portrush Golf Club Founded in 1888 and located on the coast of Northern Ireland, Royal Portrush Golf Club is famed for its tricky tee shots and thick rough. It is also a three time host of the Open Championship (1951, 2019, 2025).
Lahinch Golf Club Perched along County Clare’s wild Atlantic coast, Lahinch blends over 130 years of history with pure links character. The course features natural dunes, unpredictable winds, and quirky holes that create a uniquely fun and testing round.
St. Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna Designed by Tom Doak and set against Donegal’s stunning coastline, St. Patrick’s Links is a modern masterpiece. Seamlessly woven into the rugged landscape, it offers a raw, exhilarating experience that has quickly elevated it into Ireland’s elite.
Portmarnock Golf Club – Old Course Just a short drive from Dublin, the Old Course at Portmarnock is one of Ireland’s most historic and respected layouts. With firm fairways, strategic bunkering, and ocean views on nearly every hole, it delivers a true and timeless links test.
Waterville Golf Links Located between the Atlantic Ocean and Lough Currane, Waterville Golf Links is known for its stunning views and excellent par threes. On windy days, skill is required to stay on the fairways.
Palmer Course (The K Club) Set in 550 acres of rolling countryside in County Kildare, the Palmer Course hosted the historic 2006 Ryder Cup. This Dublin gem offers a challenging test of golf with its doglegs, trees, water hazards, and thick rough.
Enniscrone Golf Club Situated on a headland overlooking Killala Bay at the mouth of the Moy Estuary, Enniscrone Golf Club boasts over a century of history. It is consistently ranked among Ireland’s top 15 courses.
Ballyliffin Golf Club As Ireland's most northerly golf course, located on the Inishowen Peninsula, Ballyliffin’s fairways undulate, offering many memorable holes. The dunes terrain and strong winds make for an unbelievable golfing experience.
Plan your golf trip to Ireland and experience the extraordinary variety and breathtaking scenery that make it a world-class golf destination.
Popular Ireland golf tour destinations
Indulge in excellent resort & accommodation options
From high-caliber resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there is a wide range of accommodations to choose from in Ireland. For a taste of true luxury, we recommend Fota Island or Dromoland Castle. Both resorts offer outstanding hospitality and service alongside fantastic golf courses.
To get the best value accommodation for an Ireland golf vacation, check out the stay & play packages where you will have everything in the same place which makes discovering the area easier than ever. However, we also recommend taking inspiration from our personalized tours which take away the stress of planning.
Some of the best resorts in Ireland include:
Set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup, Adare Manor is one of the most prestigious golf resorts in Ireland.
Located in County Limerick, Adare Manor combines elegance, history, and world-class golf in an exceptional five-star experience. The resort’s Tom Fazio-designed course is known for its immaculate conditioning, challenging layout, and stunning riverside setting.
Adare Manor has been awarded Golf Digest’s "Best Golf Resort in Great Britain and Ireland" for five consecutive years, and it's easy to see why—from its luxurious accommodation and Michelin-level dining to the tranquil spa and lush parkland surroundings. This is Ireland’s ultimate luxury golf destination and a must-visit for any serious golf traveler.
Trump Doonbeg International Golf Links & Hotel
A five-star seaside haven on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, ideal for a luxury golf escape.
Situated on the stunning South West coast in County Clare, Trump Doonbeg offers an unforgettable mix of dramatic scenery, relaxed elegance, and championship golf. The Greg Norman-designed course hugs the coastline, with rolling dunes, ocean breezes, and panoramic views creating a thrilling links experience.
The resort's residential-style suites and cottages add a warm and intimate touch, perfect for couples or groups. Enjoy refined dining, a luxury spa, and access to one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches—all while soaking in the rugged Atlantic atmosphere.
A golfer’s paradise on the edge of Sheephaven Bay in County Donegal.
Rosapenna offers three world-class links courses: the historic Old Tom Morris Links, the dramatic Sandy Hills, and the modern masterpiece St. Patrick’s Links, designed by Tom Doak. Each course offers a unique challenge with sweeping views of Downings Beach and the surrounding countryside.
The four-star Rosapenna Hotel offers elegant accommodation, gourmet dining, and a warm Donegal welcome. It's the perfect blend of traditional charm and luxury, making it a standout for golf travelers seeking both quality and tranquility.
A Ryder Cup venue and one of Ireland’s premier five-star golf and spa resorts.
Located in the heart of County Kildare, just 30 minutes from Dublin, The K Club is steeped in history and luxury. The resort boasts two championship courses—the Palmer North, which hosted the 2006 Ryder Cup and multiple Irish Opens, and the scenic Palmer South, a newer layout offering its own distinctive challenges.
Off the course, The K Club features a luxurious spa, fine dining, equestrian center, and an impressive wine cellar. It’s a perfect base for both golfers and non-golfers looking to enjoy an upscale Irish countryside retreat.
Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links
A coastal gem blending old-world elegance with a championship links experience.
Just 25 minutes from Dublin city center, Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links is a top choice for travelers seeking a luxury golf resort near Dublin. Set on a 200-acre estate overlooking the Velvet Strand, the resort offers easy access to both vibrant city life and peaceful seaside charm.
The on-site course, designed by Bernhard Langer, is a true test of links golf, with firm fairways, pot bunkers, and coastal winds providing a classic experience. Guests can enjoy award-winning dining, spa treatments, and scenic walks along the beach—all within a refined and relaxed atmosphere.
Good hotels for Golf Tours:
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Bushmills Inn Hotel – A charming and historic retreat in the heart of the Causeway Coast, perfect for relaxing after a round on nearby championship courses.
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The Grand Hotel, Malahide – Overlooking the sea just north of Dublin, this elegant hotel offers comfort and convenience with easy access to top courses like Portmarnock and The Island.
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Mount Falcon Estate – Set in the lush countryside of County Mayo, this luxurious estate combines timeless elegance with superb amenities—ideal for golfers exploring the west of Ireland.
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Killarney Avenue Hotel – Located in the vibrant heart of Killarney, this welcoming hotel is a perfect base for discovering the famed courses of southwest Ireland.
Golf travel tips for Ireland
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Ireland is arguably the best golf destination in the world, with incredible links courses, breath-taking scenery and that renowned Irish hospitality.
Senior Golf Vacation Specialist - UK & Ireland
Multiple golf break experiences in one country
Not only is there a vast choice of golf courses across Ireland, but there are also several types of golf vacations you can enjoy during your stay.
Some of our popular golf vacations experiences include:
- UK & Ireland hidden gem golf trips - Discover secluded locations and some of the UK & Ireland's best-kept secrets on your next golf trip. Across the island there is a variety of links layouts in majestic landscapes, without the congestion of some of the bigger name courses.
- Bucket-list Scotland & Ireland golf trips - If you want to walk in the footsteps of golfing greats then a bucket list golf tour to Ireland should be at the top of your list. Take on the courses which feature on The Open Championship and experience all that the Emerald Island has to offer.
- Ireland golf tours - Find a perfectly tailored golf tour so you can experience everything you would ever want from your dream trip across the pond. Whether it's soaking up Belfast culture or staying at Ryder Cup venues, there is something to suit all.
While Ireland is world-famous for its championship golf courses, the experience doesn’t stop at the 18th hole. Off the course, Ireland offers a treasure trove of adventures, cultural experiences, and natural wonders that make your golf trip truly unforgettable. From lively cities to tranquil coastlines, ancient history to modern luxury—there’s something for every type of traveler.
Explore Ireland’s Vibrant Cities
Dublin The capital city is a must-visit, buzzing with energy and rich in history. Wander through Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, enjoy a pint at the iconic Guinness Storehouse, or catch a live traditional music session in the Temple Bar district. Dublin is also a hotspot for contemporary cuisine, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy gastropubs serving up Irish classics.
Cork Ireland’s second-largest city is known for its foodie scene, colorful streets, and charming riverside setting. Visit the English Market for local delicacies or take a short trip to Blarney Castle to kiss the famous stone.
Galway On the west coast, Galway is a vibrant, bohemian city known for its arts scene, street performers, and stunning views of Galway Bay. It’s also a gateway to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.
Belfast Northern Ireland’s capital combines industrial history with a modern edge. Explore the Titanic Belfast museum, walk the Peace Walls, and enjoy a thriving food and craft beer scene.
Discover Natural Wonders
The Giant’s Causeway Located in County Antrim, this UNESCO World Heritage site features over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. It’s one of the top natural attractions in Northern Ireland, steeped in legend and breathtaking views.
The Wild Atlantic Way Stretching along the west coast, this scenic drive passes dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and surf beaches. Highlights include the Slieve League Cliffs, Achill Island, and Loop Head.
Why book with anyone else?
- ValueGuaranteed best price, flexible booking and free amendments.
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