- Ballybunion Golf Club (Old Course): Located in Ballybunion, this 18-hole par-72 links course (6,739 yards), founded in 1893 and enhanced by Tom Watson, is consistently ranked among the world’s top courses. Its towering dunes, firm fairways, and Atlantic winds create a thrilling challenge, with every hole shaped by nature. Host to numerous prestigious events, it’s a bucket-list destination for visitors, praised for its raw beauty and exceptional pro shop. The 11th hole, a 478-yard par-4. Known as “Watson’s Way,” this cliff-edge hole runs along the Atlantic, requiring a precise drive and approach to a green perched above the beach. Its stunning ocean views and strategic challenge make it iconic.
- Waterville Golf Links: Situated on the Ring of Kerry, Waterville is an 18-hole par-72 links course (7,355 yards), designed by Eddie Hackett and refined by Tom Fazio. Ranked Ireland’s top links by some sources, it features rolling dunes, unpredictable winds, and Ballinskelligs Bay views. Frequented by golfing legends like Tiger Woods and Payne Stewart, it’s lauded for its pristine condition, challenging layout, and luxurious clubhouse. The 17th hole, a 194-yard par-3, “Mulcahy’s Peak.” This hole plays to an elevated green surrounded by dunes, with the Atlantic and Kerry’s cliffs as a backdrop, demanding precision amid stunning scenery.
- Tralee Golf Club: Designed by Arnold Palmer in 1984, this 18-hole par-72 links course (6,975 yards) in Ardfert is celebrated for its rugged coastal setting and dramatic dunes. Overlooking the Atlantic, it offers views of castles, islands, and the beach from “Ryan’s Daughter.” Visitors praise its challenging layout, spectacular scenery, and friendly caddies, making it a must-play in Kerry. The 3rd hole, a 202-yard par-3, “Palmer’s Point.” This cliff-top tee shot to a green surrounded by dunes and the ocean is both visually spectacular and tactically demanding, epitomizing Palmer’s design.
- Dooks Golf Club: Located in Glenbeigh, Dooks is an 18-hole par-71 links course (6,586 yards), established in 1889 and redesigned by Martin Hawtree in 2006. Set against Dingle Bay and the Slieve Mish Mountains, it’s known for its natural greens, medium-sized dunes, and accessible yet challenging layout. Visitors love its scenic beauty, affordability, and warm clubhouse, calling it a “hidden gem.” The 13th hole, a 151-yard par-3. This hole requires a tee shot to a green set in a natural amphitheater of dunes, with Dingle Bay views. Its compact challenge and stunning backdrop make it memorable.
- Killarney Golf & Fishing Club (Killeen Course): Located in Killarney, the Killeen Course is an 18-hole par-72 parkland course (7,100 yards), designed by Eddie Hackett and Dr. Billy O’Sullivan. Host to three Irish Opens, it features lake views, fast greens, and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks as a backdrop. Visitors enjoy its championship pedigree, scenic beauty, and resort amenities, ideal for a golfing holiday. The 18th hole, a 423-yard par-4, “Heaven’s Reflex.” This finishing hole plays along Lough Leane, requiring a strategic drive and approach to a green framed by the lake and mountains, a dramatic and scenic close.
- Ring of Kerry Golf Club: Situated in Templenoe, near Kenmare, this 18-hole par-72 parkland/heathland course (6,923 yards), designed by Eddie Hackett and Ron Kirby in 1998, blends sweeping terrain with tree-lined fairways and Kenmare Bay views. Its PGA-standard layout challenges all skill levels, with a modern clubhouse and Nua Vista restaurant enhancing the visitor experience. The 7th hole, a 180-yard par-3. This elevated tee shot plays to a green framed by bunkers and the bay, with the Caha Mountains in the background. Its scenic beauty and precision demand make it a highlight.
County Kerry:
Ireland’s county Kerry is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, with the Ring of Kerry offering scenic drives past lakes and coastal cliffs. Killarney National Park features the serene Lakes of Killarney and historic Muckross House, while Dingle’s coastal trails and dolphin-watching opportunities add natural allure. Accessible by seasonal ferry, the Skellig Islands’ ancient monastic ruins make Kerry a compelling choice for outdoor adventure and history. Kerry is Ireland’s fifth largest county by size (4,701 square km) and 15th largest by population (156,458). Population peaked at 293,880 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 112,785 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kerry is Ireland’s fourth most visited tourist county with around 877,000 international visitors per year.
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