Ireland is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. In Ireland, you can enjoy the full flavor of golf, as it offers some of the most scenic and challenging golf courses in the world.
With green fairways, coastlines, and mountains, you can have a thrilling golf experience. Whether you are a novice or an experienced golfer, the top golf courses in Ireland will impress you.
Let us explore some of the best golf destinations in Ireland together. In this article, I have reviewed the best golf courses in Ireland. You can choose any one from this list because all of them are among the best in the country.
Ballybunion Golf Club (Ballybunion, Ireland)
Location: Co. Kerry, Ireland
Length: 6,802 yards
Par: 71
Designed by: Tom Simpson
Established: 1893
Hosted Irish Open: 2000
Where to stay: South West
Designers: Lionel Hewson, Tom Simpson
Golfweek’s Best Rating: 8.33
The name Ballybunion is not just the name of this golf course but also the name of the town. This name has a history. In this town, there was a family named Bunion who owned the local 15th-century castle. The town was later named after them.
It was started in 1893, and at that time, the course had only 12 holes. Although it started well, it later suffered significant losses. In 1898, the course faced a financial crisis and had to close. It was re-established in 1906 and redesigned by the famous Irish golf journalist Lionel Hewson.
The Ballybunion course came into the spotlight at the 1937 Irish Championship. It will impress you at every turn, especially the 11th hole. Around the 14th and 15th holes, there are stone-paved paths next to the lush green grass.
Tom Watson (an American retired professional golfer) praised it, saying, “Ballybunion is a course that many golf architects should have lived and played before they built a golf course.” Watson also said that the 11th hole is one of the best par-4s in golf.
Royal County Down (Newcastle, Northern Ireland)
Location: Newcastle, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
Length: 7,186 yards
Par: 71
Designed by: George L. Baillie, Old Tom Morris, Harry Vardon, Harry Colt
Established: 1890
Hosted Irish Open: 4 times (1928, 1935, 1939, 2015)
Golfweek’s Best Rating: 8.95
Royal County Down Golf Club is one of the most prestigious and famous golf clubs in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the mountains and Dundrum Bay. Founded in 1889, the club was originally designed by Old Tom Morris and later improved by other architects, including Harry Colt.
The course allows golfers to enjoy the sport amidst picturesque mountains, Irish Sea views, and rolling sand dunes. The championship course is known for its blind shots, unobstructed greens, and rough, making it a real test for golfers of all levels.
It is regularly ranked as one of the top golf courses in the world by Golf Digest and other publications. It hosts many prestigious tournaments, including the Irish Open. Tee times are available on certain days, but advance bookings are recommended due to high demand.
Lahinch Golf Club (Lahinch, Ireland)
Location: Co. Clare, Ireland
Length: 6,950 yards
Par: 72
Designed by: Old Tom Morris, Dr. Alister MacKenzie, Dr. Martin Hawtree
Established: 1892
Golfweek’s Best Rating: 7.89
Lahinch Golf Club is a famous golf course located in Lahinch, County Clare, Ireland. Established in 1892, the club is renowned for its rich history, breathtaking coastal views, and challenging links-style course. It is often referred to as the “St. Andrews of Ireland” due to its popularity with golfers worldwide.
The historic Lahinch Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience set in beautiful natural surroundings. The golf course’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes for a wonderful experience, with the sound of waves crashing nearby. The course is surrounded by rolling hills that enhance its beauty. You can relax in its clubhouse and enjoy some delicious Irish food.
The name “Lahinch” comes from the old Irish name for Lethynsey, meaning “half-island.” In the 1890s, the town became accessible when the West Clare Railway was built. Then in 1892, three golfers, with the help of officers from the Scottish Black Watch Regiment, laid out an 18-hole course. Subsequently, the town became a paradise for golfers. The course is also famous for its challenging layout and tricky blind shots that will test your skills. The view from the 3rd hole is amazing.
Portmarnock Golf Club
Location: Portmarnock, Co. Dublin
Length: 7,463 yards
Par: 72
Designed by: William Pickeman
Established: 1894
Hosted Irish Open: 19 times (1927-2003)
Golfweek’s Best Rating: 7.42
Portmarnock Golf Club is one of the most prestigious and historic golf courses in Ireland. This classic links course is steeped in history and tradition. Established in 1894, it is renowned for its layout, stunning coastal views, and challenging design, which has attracted some of the world’s best golfers. From here, you can enjoy views of the Irish Sea and the Dublin Mountains, enhancing the pleasure of golfing.
Originally designed by W.C. Pickeman and later improved by George Ross, it has been refined over the years. The natural terrain, fairways, and strategically placed bunkers make it a true test of golf.
When playing at Portmarnock, the wide fairways and deep bunkers add to the challenge. The greens here are fast and smooth, making every shot exciting. The clubhouse offers a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, including fine dining and a warm atmosphere.
Tralee Golf Club
Location: Co. Kerry, Ireland
Length: 6,975 yards
Par: 72
Designed by: Arnold Palmer
Established: 1892 (current course 1984)
Golfweek’s Best Rating: 7.01
Tralee Golf Club is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The stunning beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the charming town of Tralee will captivate you. This renowned links course stretches along the high dunes and rugged coastline, with each hole promising a new challenge and thrill.
Designed by the world-renowned Arnold Palmer, this course is known for its strategic and creative design. Palmer utilized the natural landscape and dramatic elevations to create an unforgettable experience. The course’s rolling greens, Atlantic Ocean backdrop, and pristine natural surroundings make it unique.
Tralee Golf Club offers a layout suitable for players of all skill levels. Its diverse challenges are enjoyable for both novice and experienced golfers. One of the club’s highlights is the 3rd hole, a par-3 known as “Castle Beach.” This hole stretches over a rocky inlet above the ocean, demanding precision for a perfect tee shot. The green is set between the mountains and the ocean, creating a breathtaking view.
