Kerry, Clare and Cork · Bucket-list links road trip

Planning a Golf Trip to Southwest Ireland: Group Guide

Ballybunion, Lahinch, Waterville, Tralee and Old Head. Wild links golf, pubs and the friendliest golf travel anywhere.

Best forGroups of 4–16 who want links golf and pub nights
Group size4–12 · 12–24 golfers
Budget$$$$ Luxury
Best monthsMay, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Trip styleBucket list · Links / walking golf

The courses to play

  • Ballybunion (Old Course): Dunes and Atlantic cliffs.
  • Lahinch (Old Course): Home of the blind Dell hole.
  • Waterville: A remote, beautiful links on the Ring of Kerry.
  • Old Head of Kinsale: A clifftop peninsula course.
  • Adare Manor: A luxury parkland course, host of the 2027 Ryder Cup.

Getting there

AirportCodeDrive to the golf
ShannonSNN30 min to 3 hrs
CorkORK30 min to 2.5 hrs

Check live flights to SNN on Google Flights →

Nonstop from 3 major U.S. cities: Boston, Chicago, New York City. Group flying from different cities? →

When to go

May through September.

Group tip

Fly into Shannon and out of Cork (or vice versa) to avoid backtracking. Hire a driver. The roads are narrow and the pints are good.

Before you book

  1. Lock the headcount in a multiple of four.
  2. Set the per-person budget with the cost calculator.
  3. Call the resort or golf desk directly and ask for group tee-time blocks, stay-and-play packages and the cancellation and rain policy.
  4. Collect deposits the week you book. Use the deposit tracker.
  5. Pick your format and build pairings.
Watch · 8 min7 Golf Trip Mistakes That Ruin the Trip (I've Made Them All)

How we check facts. Resort or tourism board? Send us updates for this guide.

Course details and access rules change. Confirm current tee-time policies and rates directly with each course before you book.

FAQ

When is the best time for a Southwest Ireland golf trip?

May through September. Best months: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.

What airport do you fly into for Southwest Ireland?

Shannon (SNN), 30 min to 3 hrs; Cork (ORK), 30 min to 2.5 hrs.

What are the best courses at Southwest Ireland?

Ballybunion (Old Course), Lahinch (Old Course), Waterville, Old Head of Kinsale, Adare Manor.

Is Southwest Ireland good for a group golf trip?

Best for: Groups of 4–16 who want links golf and pub nights. It works for groups of 4–12, 12–24 golfers.

How far ahead should we book Southwest Ireland?

For 8 or more golfers in peak season, plan 6–12 months out. Call the golf desk and ask about group tee-time blocks and package rates before you book rooms.

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