Ireland is the underrated half of the British Isles golf trip. The links at Lahinch, Ballybunion, and Royal County Down rival anything in Scotland — usually for less money, with shorter waits and warmer welcomes.
Best courses
Tom Watson and Tiger Woods both call it the best course in the world. Newcastle, an hour south of Belfast.
County Clare classic. The Klondyke and Dell holes are pure Irish links charm.
Big dunes, big greens, big history. The trip-of-a-lifetime course on the southwest coast.
When to go
Best monthsMay through September
Similar to Scotland — wetter on the west coast, milder than the Highlands. Wind is the constant.
Sample itinerary
6-day southwest Ireland sampler
- Day 01Land SNN, drive to Lahinch
Arrive Shannon. 1h 20m drive to Lahinch. Dinner in town.
- Day 02Lahinch
Play the Old. Lunch at the 19th, then a walk down the strand.
- Day 03Doonbeg or Tralee
Pick one for the morning. Drive south to Ballybunion in the afternoon.
What it costs
$2,800–$4,200 per person for 5–7 days
Often 15-25% cheaper than Scotland for an equivalent trip. Green fees, hotels, and food all run lighter.
Want a real number for your group? The planner produces a per-person estimate based on your dates, party size, and course choices.
Getting there
- SNN · ShannonDefault for southwest Ireland links. Direct from JFK, EWR, BOS.
- DUB · DublinBetter for the east — Portmarnock, The Island.
Most US golfers fly into Shannon for southwest Ireland links and Dublin for the east coast.
FAQ
How does Ireland compare to Scotland for golf?
Similar quality of links — Royal County Down, Lahinch, and Ballybunion can all hold their own — with about 15-25% lower trip costs. The catch: more driving between marquee courses.
When is the best time to go?
May, June, and September are sweet — long days, fewer crowds, milder weather than July-August peak.
Ready to start planning?
Generate this Ireland trip in minutes- Royal County Down (Newcastle) · County Down, Northern Ireland
- Portrush · County Antrim, Northern Ireland