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Discover South West Ireland golf trips
Ireland’s answer to St Andrews, the South West is one of the world’s greatest places to play golf. Packed with dozens of magnificent courses – stretching from the eye-popping Old Head of Kinsale in the south all the way round to the westerly Lahinch – a golf tour in South-West Ireland really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Imagine yourself enjoying an itinerary that also included legendary links like Ballybunion, Tralee and Doonbeg. With spectacular views, giant dunes and some of the world’s most incredible holes, this really is bucket-list golf. Six of Ireland’s Top 20 courses are found in this region, underlining its status as a world-class golfing destination. And with plenty of direct flights from North America to Shannon – and all the courses within a couple of hours of there – it’s easy to see why this corner of the Emerald Isle is so popular.
Why book a golf tour in South West Ireland?
- Play some of the world’s most iconic links courses
- Experience dramatic coastal scenery and unforgettable landscapes
- Stay in lively golf towns like Killarney or Cork
- Enjoy outstanding pubs, restaurants, and traditional Irish music
- Take on legendary courses like Ballybunion, Waterville & Tralee
- Easy access via Shannon or Cork from North America
Visit Ireland's answer to St Andrews!
South West Ireland is home to some of the most iconic and celebrated links courses in the world. Set along the Wild Atlantic Way, these layouts combine dramatic scenery with rich history and unforgettable design. Check out the top golf courses in South West Ireland:
Ballybunion Golf Club Location: Co. Kerry | Courses: Old Course (Par 71) & Cashen Course (Par 72) | Architects: Robert Trent Jones Sr. | Founded: 1893
Widely regarded as one of the finest links courses in the world, Ballybunion’s Old Course is famed for its towering dunes and exhilarating back nine along the Atlantic. A true bucket-list experience. Its consistently high global rankings and praise from tour professionals reinforce its status as a must-play venue.
Lahinch Golf Club Location: Co. Clare | Course: Old Course (Par 72) | Architects: Old Tom Morris (original), Alister MacKenzie (redesign) | Founded: 1892
Often referred to as Ireland’s St Andrews, Lahinch is a historic and characterful links, known for its quirky holes, natural routing, and stunning coastal setting. The course’s unique blind shots and natural terrain make it one of the most distinctive rounds in Ireland.
Old Head Golf Links Location: Co. Cork | Course: Championship Course (Par 72) | Architects: Ron Kirby & Paddy Merrigan | Opened: 1997
Set on a dramatic peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic, Old Head is one of the most visually spectacular courses in the world, with cliff-edge holes and panoramic ocean views at every turn. Nearly every hole offers a view of the ocean, creating a truly unforgettable visual experience.
Waterville Golf Links Location: Co. Kerry | Course: Championship Links (Par 71) | Architects: Eddie Hackett (original), Tom Fazio (updates) | Founded: 1889
Remote and steeped in tradition, Waterville offers a pure links experience on the Ring of Kerry, where strategy and shot-making are key against a backdrop of stunning scenery. Its isolation adds to the sense of occasion, making every round feel special.
Doonbeg Links (Trump International Golf Links) Location: Co. Clare | Course: Championship Course (Par 72) | Architect: Greg Norman | Opened: 2002
A modern links masterpiece, Doonbeg combines wide fairways, dramatic dunes, and oceanfront holes with luxury resort facilities, offering a premium and memorable golf experience. The layout is both playable and strategic, appealing to a wide range of golfers.
Adare Manor Golf Course Location: Co. Limerick | Course: Championship Course (Par 72) | Architect: Tom Fazio (redesign) | Reopened: 2017
One of Ireland’s finest parkland courses, Adare Manor delivers immaculate conditioning, precision design, and a truly five-star golf experience. Set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup, it has firmly established itself on the global stage as a must-play venue.
Travel Tips for South West Ireland
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Best time to visit – May to September offers the best conditions, with June and July providing long daylight hours. May and September are ideal for fewer crowds and excellent value.
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Fly into Shannon or Cork – Both airports offer easy access to the region, with many courses within a 1–2 hour drive - ideal for a seamless golf itinerary.
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Base yourself in Killarney – A central and lively hub, perfect for accessing multiple top courses while enjoying great dining and nightlife.
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Plan your course order – The region is compact, but grouping courses (Kerry, Clare, Cork) will make your trip more relaxed and efficient.
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Book early – Iconic courses like Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Old Head are in high demand, especially in peak season.
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Prepare for changing weather – Conditions can shift quickly along the coast, so layers and waterproofs are essential.
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Enjoy the après-golf – From Killarney’s pubs to Kinsale’s food scene, make time to experience the culture as well as the golf.
Best-selling golf tours in South West Ireland
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Popular golf tours in South West Ireland
Ireland's equivalent of 'southern hospitality'
South West Ireland offers an exceptional range of accommodation to suit every style of golf trip - from five-star luxury resorts to lively town-center hotels and relaxed golf retreats. Whether you’re looking to indulge, unwind, or stay close to the action, there’s a perfect base for your itinerary.
Adare Manor Golf Resort Best for: Ultimate luxury & bucket-list stays
One of Ireland’s most prestigious resorts and host of the 2027 Ryder Cup, Adare Manor delivers a truly world-class experience. Set within a vast estate, it combines five-star accommodation, fine dining, and immaculate parkland golf - perfect for those looking to elevate every part of their trip. Ideally located for access to South West icons including Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Tralee.
Hayfield Manor Best for: Boutique luxury & refined atmosphere
A peaceful five-star retreat in Cork, Hayfield Manor offers elegant rooms, exceptional service, and a more intimate feel than larger resorts. Ideal for those who want luxury with a personal touch, while still being within easy reach of Old Head. It also provides convenient access to Fota Island and Cork Golf Club.
Fota Island Golf Resort Best for: Golf resort convenience
For a seamless golf-focused stay, Fota Island is hard to beat. With on-site courses, modern accommodation, and excellent facilities, it’s perfect for those who want everything in one place without compromising on quality. It also serves as a great base for playing Old Head and Cork Golf Club.
Killarney Park Hotel Best for: Luxury in a lively town setting
Located in the heart of Killarney, this five-star hotel combines high-end comfort with immediate access to restaurants, pubs, and nightlife. A great option for those who want premium accommodation alongside a vibrant atmosphere. From here, you’re well positioned for Ballybunion, Tralee, Waterville, and Dooks.
Eviston House Hotel Best for: Value & traditional Irish atmosphere
A more relaxed and affordable option in Killarney, Eviston House is known for its warm hospitality and the legendary Danny Mann pub. Perfect for golfers who want an authentic experience and lively evenings after a day on the course. It offers easy access to the same Kerry heavyweights, including Ballybunion, Tralee, and Waterville.
Dromoland Castle Best for: Historic castle experience
For something truly memorable, Dromoland Castle offers a stay steeped in history and elegance. With lush surroundings, top-class service, and its own golf course, it’s ideal for those looking to combine golf with a unique Irish experience. It’s also within easy reach of Lahinch and Doonbeg.
The Kingsley Best for: Stylish city base
Set along the River Lee in Cork, The Kingsley provides a modern, comfortable base with easy access to the city’s food scene and nearby golf. A strong choice for those wanting a mix of golf and city energy. Nearby courses include Fota Island, Cork Golf Club, and the spectacular Old Head.
For a change of pace from the links, many of these properties also offer access to outstanding parkland golf, creating a well-rounded and memorable itinerary.
There’s good reason why SW Ireland is deemed the Emerald Isles’ number one golf destination, with Ballybunion, Waterville, Tralee and Old Head being the big 4 you must play.
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Golf travel tips for South West Ireland
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Why choose a golf tour in South West Ireland?
South West Ireland is the Emerald Isle’s golfing showpiece, home to some of the most famous links courses in the world. Often regarded as Ireland’s premier golf region, this stretch of coastline from Cork through Kerry to Clare delivers a concentration of legendary layouts set against breathtaking Atlantic scenery. From the cliffs of Old Head to the rolling dunes of Lahinch, every round feels like a highlight.
This is the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, where dramatic landscapes and world-renowned courses combine to create a truly unforgettable golf experience. For those seeking iconic names, stunning views, and vibrant towns, South West Ireland is hard to beat.
Killarney & Kerry
At the centre of the South West lies Killarney, the region’s most popular base and a hub for golf travellers. Surrounded by lakes and mountains, it offers easy access to legendary courses like Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, Tralee, Dooks, and the world-famous Ballybunion and Waterville nearby. Off the course, Killarney is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional pubs, and excellent restaurants - making it the perfect blend of great golf and vibrant Irish culture.
Shannon & Limerick
Centred around Shannon Airport, this part of the South West offers some of Ireland’s most iconic and accessible links golf. Lahinch Golf Club, often referred to as Ireland’s St Andrews, is the standout - an historic and endlessly enjoyable links set along a stunning stretch of coastline. Nearby, Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg provides a more modern contrast, with dramatic oceanfront holes and immaculate conditioning. This region combines world-class golf with convenience, as many of the top courses are within a short drive of Shannon. Beyond the fairways, you’ll find breathtaking scenery including the Cliffs of Moher, along with charming coastal towns, traditional pubs, and a relaxed pace that perfectly complements the golf experience.
Cork & Old Head
To the south, County Cork delivers some of Ireland’s most visually stunning golf. Old Head Golf Links, set on a narrow peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic, is one of the most spectacular courses anywhere in the world. Paired with excellent parkland options and a thriving food scene, Cork offers a slightly different pace while still delivering unforgettable golf.
Off the course
Beyond the fairways, South West Ireland offers an experience that’s just as memorable. From the bustling streets of Killarney to the coastal charm of Lahinch and Kinsale, the region is packed with character.
Enjoy traditional Irish music in lively pubs, explore historic castles and scenic national parks, or take in the dramatic beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry. Whether it’s great food, stunning scenery, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s no shortage of ways to unwind after a round.
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Earn golf gift cards when you book a golf trip.Value
Guaranteed best price, flexible booking and free amendments.Service
Hassle-free golf trip planning and expert travel advice.Trust
Over 25 years’ experience and rated excellent by our customers on Trustpilot.Choice
An extensive choice of venues across the USA and worldwide.Rewards
Earn golf gift cards when you book a golf trip.
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