When it comes to golf, Ireland is a destination like no other. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, it’s no surprise that the country is home to some of the world’s finest courses. Whether you’re a fan of challenging links or beautifully designed parklands, Ireland offers something for every golfer.
In this guide, we focus on some of the standout courses in the southwest, a region celebrated for its rich golfing heritage. From the iconic Ballybunion and Waterville to hidden gems like Dooks and Dingle, we’ve compiled a comparison table to help you explore the features and accolades of each course.
Of course, what makes a course “the best” is entirely subjective—every golfer has their own preferences and priorities. This list is shaped by the expertise of golfers who know Ireland best.
Page Contents
- Ballybunion
- Cork
- Dingle
- Dooks
- Dromoland
- Killarney
- Lahinch
- Old Head of Kinsale
- Trump Doonbeg
- Tralee
- Waterville
To help you decide which course might be your next favourite, we’ve put together a handy comparison table highlighting key details like par, length, and accolades for each course.
Comparison table
| Course | County | Type | Founded | Par | SSS | Length | Awards |
| Ballybunion | Kerry | Links | Old: 1893 | 71 | 72 | Old: 6,739 yds | 🏅 Ranked 9th in the world by Golf Digest (2024) |
| Cashen: 1981 | 72 | 71 | Cashen: 6,290 yds | ||||
| Dooks | Kerry | Links | 1889 | 71 | 71 | 6,511 yards | 🏞 Voted Ireland’s Most Scenic Golf Course (2020) |
| Dingle (Ceann Sibéal) | Kerry | Links | 1924 | 72 | 71 | 6,696 yards | 🏆 Ranked 41st in National Club Golfer’s Top 100 (2024) |
| Dromoland | Clare | Parkland | 1961 | 72 | 74 | 6,824 yards | 🏨 Named Ireland’s Best Golf Hotel (2018) |
| Killarney | Kerry | Parkland | 1893 | 72 | 72 | Killeen: 7,252 yds | 🏆 Named Parkland Course of the Year (2024) |
| 72 | 72 | Mahony’s Point: 6,800 yds | |||||
| Waterville | Kerry | Links | 1889 | 72 | 73 | 7,347 yards | 🏅 Awarded Ireland’s Best Golf Course (2014) |
| Tralee | Kerry | Links | 1896 | 72 | 73 | 6,975 yards | 🏆 Best Links Course in Munster (2024) |
| Lahinch | Clare | Links | Old: 1892 | 72 | 74 | Old: 7,050 yds | 🏅 Awarded Ireland’s Best Golf Course (2018) |
| Castle: 1963 | 69 | 67 | Castle: 5,488 yds | ||||
| Old Head of Kinsale | Cork | Links | 1997 | 72 | 72 | 7,200 yards | 🌍 Most Spectacular Course in the World (2011) |
| Trump Doonbeg | Clare | Links | 2002 | 72 | 74 | 7,151 yards | 🏨 Best Golf Resort in Ireland (2017) |
| Cork | Cork | Parkland | 1888 | 72 | 72 | 6,770 yards | 🏆 Ranked 6th in Top 30 Parklands (2024) |
Ireland is well known as a golfer’s paradise. The country has a diverse selection of courses that cater to all preferences.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to explore the legendary links courses, or a more casual player looking for a scenic escape on your golf break while visiting Ireland, there’s a perfect course waiting to be discovered.
This guide delves into the top contenders, exploring both the best links golf courses and best parkland courses to help you craft the ultimate Irish golfing experience.
Planning a memorable golf trip can be overwhelming with so many Irish courses vying for your attention. But this guide will help you .
We’ll answer the age-old question, “what are the best golf courses in Ireland?” by showcasing a variety of exceptional courses, from renowned five-star resort layouts to hidden gems. So, grab your clubs and get ready to tee off on some of the world’s most unforgettable courses.
1. Ballybunion Golf Club
“Ballybunion is a course on which many golf architects should live and play before they build courses. I consider it a true test of golf”
Tom Watson
Playing style (links, parkland): Links
Memorable feature: Dramatic seaside setting with rolling fairways, ever-present winds, and stunning ocean views from nearly every hole
Ideal for golfers who: Crave the authentic links golf experience and want to test their skills against nature’s elements
What you can expect:
Ballybunion Golf Club has two courses: The Old Course and the Cashen Course. These two world-class links courses offer unique challenges and breathtaking scenery. The Old Course, a classic links layout, is renowned for its strategic bunkering, undulating fairways, and dramatic coastal views. The Cashen Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a more modern test of golf, characterised by its demanding terrain, blind shots, and elevated greens. While the Old Course is often regarded as the more iconic of the two, the Cashen Course has gained considerable acclaim in recent years and is considered by many to be one of Ireland’s finest links courses.
Embark on a golfing adventure unlike any other at Ballybunion Golf Club. Book your tee time now and experience the allure of true links golf on Ireland’s stunning coastline
2. Cork Golf Club
“I have happy memories of Cork Golf Club, both as an amateur and professional. The course has always impressed me”
Paul McGinley, Ryder Cup Captain (2014)
Playing style (links, parkland): Parkland and links
Memorable feature: Cork Golf Club boasts a classic links layout with several holes running alongside the scenic Lee Estuary. The course offers a unique blend of parkland and links elements, making it a favourite among those who appreciate variety
Ideal for golfers who: Enjoy a challenging yet fair links course with strategic bunkering and water hazards in play. The variety in hole types keeps the game interesting for golfers of all skill levels
What you can expect:
The course is a par 71 and stretches to 6,900 yards from the back tees. Players will find a variety of challenges throughout the round, including rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that come into play on several holes. Five of the holes wind their way through an old limestone quarry, adding a unique element to the course. The course is also known for its stunning views of the Lee Estuary.
Ready to play Cork? Explore SWING Golf’s tour packages.
3. Dingle Golf Links, Ceann Sibeal
“This course has everything that St. Andrews has to offer, and more!”
Christy O’Connor Junior
Playing style (links, parkland): Links
Memorable feature: Dingle Golf Links, also known as Ceann Sibeal, boasts the title of “westernmost course in Europe.” Dramatic cliffside holes and ever-present coastal winds define this challenging links experience.
Ideal for golfers who: appeals to players of all levels who appreciate the thrill of traditional links golf and the beauty of Ireland’s wild coastline
What you can expect:
Located in the heart of the Gaeltacht region in County Kerry, Dingle Golf Links offers an unforgettable golfing experience in one of Ireland’s most scenic locations. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the course features 18 holes that weave through rugged terrain and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Golfers are treated to a challenging round of golf amidst towering dunes, rolling fairways, and strategic bunkering, all set against the backdrop of Ireland’s stunning west coast. While the scenery is captivating, don’t be fooled – strategically placed bunkers and streams throughout the course present a significant challenge, especially with the ever-present wind
Ready to experience the beauty and challenge of Dingle Golf Links? Contact us today to add it to your Irish golf tour
4. Dooks Golf Links
“Dooks is maybe the loveliest little golf club in the world. Certainly I have never been more totally surrounded by superb scenery than at Dooks”
David Davies (The Guardian)
Playing style (links, parkland): Links
Memorable feature: Golfers are treated to a true links experience, with undulating fairways, rugged dunes, and challenging coastal winds creating an exhilarating round of golf
Ideal for golfers who: Appreciate a scenic links challenge that’s both beautiful and playable. Don’t be fooled by its length – just over 6,000 yards – Dooks offers a strategic and engaging round for golfers of all skill levels
What you can expect:
Designed by the legendary golf architect, Dr. Alister MacKenzie, the course features 18 holes of challenging links golf that meander through towering dunes and along the pristine coastline. With its timeless charm and breathtaking vistas, Dooks Golf Links promises an authentic and memorable round of golf for players of all abilities. Nestled on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Dooks Golf Links offers an authentic links experience. The course winds its way along rolling terrain, with pot bunkers, gorse, and the ever-present wind adding to the challenge. While the scenery steals the show, strategic bunkering and water hazards on three sides keep the game interesting. Be sure to save room for their renowned seafood chowder after your round!
Contact Swing to add Dooks Golf Links to your Irish golf itinerary!
5. Dromoland Castle Golf Club
“A challenging parkland course, amidst the peace and serenity of a beautiful location”
Gary Player
Playing style (links, parkland): Parkland
Memorable feature: Set on the stunning grounds of Dromoland Castle, offering a luxurious golfing experience alongside a well-conditioned course
Ideal for golfers who: Appreciate a luxurious setting and a well-maintained course with some challenge for all skill levels
What you can expect: Set amidst the rolling hills of County Clare, Ireland, Dromoland Castle Golf Club offers a peaceful retreat for golf enthusiasts. Eight miles from Shannon Airport,the course runs through woodlands, lakes, and streams within the magnificent 360-acre estate, offering a classic parkland challenge amidst a truly spectacular setting. The course, designed by Ron Kirby and JB Carr, features 18 beautifully landscaped holes. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, Dromoland Castle Golf Club promises a memorable round amidst the timeless elegance of its historic surroundings.
Live like royalty and tee off at Dromoland Castle. Contact Swing to craft your unforgettable Irish golf escape!
6. Killarney Golf and Fishing Club
“Killarney has a special place with golfers the world over for decades, where the breathtaking scenery is a perfect match for the challenging golf”
Padraig Harrington
Playing style (links, parkland): Parkland (although some consider it a heathland course due to its natural features)
Memorable feature: Two championship courses (Killeen & Mahony’s Point) nestled amidst Killarney National Park, offering stunning lake and mountain views.
Ideal for golfers who: Appreciate scenic beauty alongside a well-maintained course with variety in hole difficulty
What you can expect: Located in the heart of County Kerry, Ireland, Killarney Golf and Fishing Club offers a scenic and tranquil escape for golfers. Founded in 1891, Killarney Golf and Fishing Club boasts two championship courses, Killeen and Mahony’s Point. Both courses meander through mature trees and offer stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. While scenic, the courses provide a good challenge with water features and strategic bunkering The parkland-style course features 18 beautifully landscaped holes set against the backdrop of Killarney National Park, providing a peaceful and enjoyable golfing experience for players of all levels. Killarney is also a Six-time host of the Irish Open.
Contact us now to book your tee time and discover the magic of golfing in the heart of Killarney National Park
7. Lahinch Golf Club
“Lahinch will make the finest and most popular course that I, or I believe anyone else, ever constructed”
Dr. Alastair MacKenzie
Playing style (links, parkland): Links
Memorable feature: One of its most iconic features is the famous “Dell” hole, a short par-3 nestled between towering sand dunes, requiring accuracy and nerve to navigate successfully
Ideal for golfers who: Ideal for golfers who relish the traditional links golf experience. With its rugged terrain and ever-changing coastal winds, it will appeal to those who enjoy the strategic nuances and unpredictability of links-style courses
What you can expect:
Lahinch Golf Club offers two exceptional links courses, each providing a unique golfing experience. The Old Course, often hailed as the “St Andrews of Ireland,” is a classic links challenge with dramatic dunes, blind shots, and stunning coastal views. It’s a true test of golf, demanding precision and strategic thinking. The Castle Course also has a delightful and rewarding layout. Its more forgiving nature and scenic beauty make it a fantastic choice for golfers of all abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer to the sport, Lahinch offers a memorable golfing experience.
Ready to tee off at Lahinch? Contact Swing to craft your dream Irish golf getaway
8. Old Head of Kinsale Golf Club
“The most spectacular course on earth”
Joe Passov, Links Magazine (1999)
Playing style (links, parkland): Links
Memorable feature: Perched on a stunning peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, Old Head of Kinsale Golf Club offers breathtaking cliffside views from nearly every hole, creating an unforgettable golfing experience
Ideal for golfers who: Old Head appeals to golfers who appreciate links-style courses and dramatic coastal landscapes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy navigating strategic bunkering and contending with coastal winds while admiring panoramic ocean views
What you can expect:
Old Head of Kinsale Golf Club, nestled on a stunning promontory in County Cork, Ireland, boasts a world-renowned links course that captivates golfers with its dramatic coastal setting and challenging layout. Designed by a team including Ron Kirby, Paddy Merrigan, and the late Eddie Hackett, the course spans over 220 acres, offering 18 holes that meander along the rugged cliffs and Atlantic coastline. Golfers are treated to panoramic views of the ocean from nearly every tee, providing a sensory feast of crashing waves and salty sea air. Each hole at Old Head presents a unique challenge, with undulating fairways, pot bunkers, and strategically placed hazards demanding precision and strategy from players. The signature holes, such as the par-4 4th and the par-5 12th, stand out for their breathtaking vistas and strategic design.
Experience golf like never before at Old Head of Kinsale – where breathtaking views meet world-class links play. Book your unforgettable round today.
9. Trump Doonbeg International Golf Links
“Located 40 miles west of Shannon International airport and midway between two Irish shrines, Ballybunion and Lahinch, Doonbeg is poised to become one itself”
GOLF Magazine
Playing style (links, parkland): Links and dunes
Memorable feature: The course is well known for its dramatic cliffside setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Despite the variety and scenic beauty, Doonbeg’s challenge lies in its mix of hole lengths and strategic use of bunkers and water hazards
Ideal for golfers who: Low-, mid- and high-handicap golfers as well as luxury golfers
What you can expect:
Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland, situated on the captivating west coast of Ireland in Doonbeg, County Clare, is home to a prestigious links golf course that embodies both challenge and beauty. Designed by the legendary golf architect Greg Norman, the course winds through towering dunes and along the rugged coastline, offering golfers a truly authentic links golf experience. With panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and strategic bunkering, each hole presents a unique and exhilarating challenge for players of all skill levels. The course’s natural terrain, undulating fairways, and unpredictable coastal winds provide a formidable test of golfing prowess, while its immaculately manicured greens ensure a rewarding putting experience. Renowned for its world-class design and breathtaking scenery, Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland stands as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable golfing adventure amidst the stunning beauty of the Irish coastline.
Experience unparalleled golf and scenery. Book your tee time at Doonbeg today.
10. Tralee Golf Club
“I have never come across a piece of land so ideally suited for the building of a golf course. I am happy we have one of the world’s great links here”
Arnold Palmer
Playing style (links, parkland): Links
Memorable feature: Tralee Golf Club, an Arnold Palmer design in Ireland, is known for its dramatic cliffs, beaches, and Atlantic Ocean views. It offers a challenging yet playable course. Varied holes (short par 4s, long par 3s, reachable par 5s) cater to golfers of all skill levels
Ideal for golfers who: Enjoy a drastic variation in play. Arnold Palmer said of his design, “I designed the first nine but surely God designed the back nine”
What you can expect:
Tralee Golf Club, situated in County Kerry, Ireland, stands as a prestigious links course designed by Arnold Palmer. Offering panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the Brandon Mountains, it’s renowned for its challenging yet captivating layout amid natural dunes and rolling fairways. Established in 1896, Tralee Golf Club has hosted esteemed tournaments and consistently ranks among Ireland’s top courses. With each hole presenting unique challenges, it caters to golfers of all levels. Beyond golf, amenities such as a clubhouse, pro shop, and practice facilities ensure a complete experience. Combining warm hospitality with stunning scenery, Tralee Golf Club beckons enthusiasts worldwide to immerse themselves in an unforgettable golfing journey along Ireland’s southwest coast.
Contact Swing now to book your tour and experience the challenge and beauty of this prestigious links course firsthand.
11. Waterville Golf Club
“Swing Courses Waterville & Ballybunion helped me realise the dream of a lifetime – victory in the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale the following week”
Mark O’Meara
Playing style (links, parkland): Links and dunes
Memorable feature: Breathtaking coastal setting, with stunning views of the Atlantic coastline. The course presents a significant challenge, with its strategic bunkering, undulating fairways, and often windy conditions
Ideal for golfers who: If you love the links and you’re an experienced golfer, this course is for you
What you can expect:
Waterville Golf Links, nestled in County Kerry, Ireland, offers a picturesque golfing experience along the Ring of Kerry. Known for its challenging yet breathtaking layout blending links and dunes, it provides golfers with a unique and memorable journey. Established in 1889, the course has been enhanced over time by architects like Tom Fazio and Tom Doak, solidifying its status as one of Ireland’s top golf destinations. Beyond golf, the club offers amenities including a clubhouse, pro shop, and practice facilities. Accommodations nearby cater to those extending their stay. Renowned for its natural beauty and hospitality, Waterville Golf Club beckons visitors to experience its world-class course and stunning surroundings. The course has hosted several prestigious golf events, including the Irish PGA Championship and the European Tour’s Kerrygold International Classic. It has also attracted many famous golfers from around the world who come to experience its beauty and test their skills on its challenging fairways and greens.
Speak to our friendly team and secure your tee time for an unforgettable round.
Book your trip today
Beyond the courses mentioned here, Ireland offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Remember, the “best” course is ultimately a matter of personal preference. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to choose the courses that best suit your skill level, desired challenge, and travel aspirations.
Ready to book your dream Irish golf vacation? Contact SWING’s expert team today. We’ll help you design a personalised itinerary that perfectly matches your golfing preferences, desired locations, and budget.
From tee times at championship courses to luxurious accommodations and unforgettable off-course experiences, SWING will ensure your Irish golf trip is one for the ages. We invite you to look at some of the reviews we’ve received from our valued customers.
We look forward to helping you plan the trip of a lifetime!
