10 Things to Know for Southwest Ireland Golf Trips

Essential Tips for the Jewel of Links Golf in Ireland

Southwest Ireland has carried the torch for links golf on the Emerald Isle for decades, offering a perfect blend of world-class courses, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

When considering Southwest Ireland golf packages, it's important to understand the unique aspects that set this region apart from other destinations for golf across the pond.

Whether you're embarking on your first golf trip to Southwest Ireland or returning for another round of unforgettable experiences, here are ten important considerations to help you make the most of your journey.

We've also covered Southwest Ireland in 3-part episode on our Golf and the Good Life podcast. Tune-in below or wherever you get your podcasts.

1. Courses Are Spread Out

Southwest Ireland is home to some of the world’s best golf courses, but they are more spread out compared to other regions. The top lodging options and towns are often an hour or more from each course, which means longer daily commutes.

If you’re traveling with a driver-host, this can mean reaching the driver’s daily hours limit more often, particularly after a long day of golf and dinner. In those cases, you may need to taxi back to your hotel while your driver takes a well-deserved (and usually required) rest.

2. Incredible Concentration of Golf

The golf in Southwest Ireland is truly exceptional, with several courses ranked in the Golf Digest World Top 100 and even a future Ryder Cup venue at Adare Manor.

You’ll find legendary links like Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Tralee, each offering its own unique challenge and stunning coastal views. And then there's Old Head Golf Links, which must be seen to be believed.

With so many top-tier courses in close proximity, your trip to Southwest Ireland promises an unmatched and unforgettable golf experience.

The members of Old Sandwich Golf Club soak in the sun at Ballybunion.

3. Multiple Hotels are Needed

Since the courses are spread out, your itinerary might require checking-in to three different accommodations. We generally prefer sticking to one or two hotels for convenience, but in Southwest Ireland, moving around a bit helps you reach all the must-play courses without extending the already lengthy commutes.

We try to plan the trip so that multiple courses are played from each base, but with so many outstanding courses, you'll usually need to unpack an extra time or two.

4. Extra Days Required

Thanks to the concentration of great golf, you'll need to allow more time here compared to other areas. While some regions in Scotland and Ireland can be played in a weeklong trip, Southwest Ireland ideally needs a few extra days to be done properly.

A 10-day minimum stay is perfect to fully enjoy the top courses of Southwest Ireland and avoid feeling rushed. This gives you time to enjoy both the golf and the off-course activities at a relaxed pace.

Anything less, and you'll probably need to cut some must-play courses from the itinerary.

The members of Onwentsia Club take in the unforgettable views at Old Head Golf Links

5. The Good Life is Exceptional

The off-course experiences in Southwest Ireland are just as incredible as the golf. From stunning natural sites to lively pubs where “the craic” is always flowing, there’s plenty to do.

Unlike some areas that are best suited for hardcore golfers, Southwest Ireland is great for golfers and tourists alike, with lots to see and enjoy off the course.

So much, in fact, that we call special attention to the next tip...

6. You'll Want a Day Off of Golf

Even though the golf is amazing, taking a day off the course to explore the region is totally worth it. Check out Killarney National Park, drive the Ring of Kerry, or explore the Dingle Peninsula. The scenery, charming towns, and rich culture make for a well-rounded trip that captures the essence of Golf and the Good Life.

Plus, having some extra time for sightseeing means your body—and your golf game—will appreciate the rest.

The members of Ridglea Country Club enjoying Golf and the Good Life at Adare Manor.

7. Easy Access from Shannon

Shannon Airport makes getting to Southwest Ireland a breeze, with shorter commutes compared to arriving or departing from Dublin. In some cases, you’re just minutes away from your destination.

Although there are fewer flight options from the U.S. than there are to Dublin, the convenience and proximity can make for a much smoother start or end to your trip.

8. You Need to Plan Early

Southwest Ireland’s top courses are in high demand, especially during peak season. For some courses, booking tee times over a year in advance is essential to secure your ideal schedule.

Flexibility helps, but planning ahead is the best way to make sure you get to enjoy your must-play courses. For Southwest Ireland, we suggest that you start working with one of our Expedition Planning Managers in the spring of the year prior to your trip.

The members of Summit Hills Country Club with The King at Tralee.

9. Be Ready to Walk

Most courses in Southwest Ireland are designed to be walked, and that’s really the best way to experience them. In some cases, it's the only way, due to a lack of buggies.

The terrain can be hilly and challenging, so it's a good idea to prepare your body before your departure. Especially considering the number of rounds you're likely to play in a short period of time. Go on some long walks or skip the cart for a round or two at your club.

And if you really want to make the most of it, we strongly recommend hiring a local caddie. Not only will they help you navigate the course, but they’ll also share local knowledge and stories that add even more to your experience.

10. Dinner Reservations are Essential

After a long day on the course, the last thing your group will want to do is sort out dinner—especially after the commute back to town. Popular spots can fill up quickly, particularly in peak season, so making dinner reservations ahead of time is a good idea.

You don't necessarily need a reservation for every night—it's a good idea to leave some flexibility to hop into a pub or enjoy a recommendation from your driver-host. But if there's a day or two where a late return to town is inevitable, put a reservation in place so that you're not scrambling in the moment.

Your H&B Concierge will walk you through the key nights to do so and handle your desired reservations accordingly.

In closing, Southwest Ireland offers a truly unique golfing adventure, blending world-class courses, unforgettable landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Planning ahead and understanding the nuances of the region can make all the difference in creating a memorable trip. Whether it's navigating longer commutes, enjoying time off the course, or savoring local cuisine, each part of the journey adds to the experience.

Take your time, soak in everything this incredible region has to offer, and prepare for a golf trip that will be talked about for years to come.