How to Plan The Best Golf Trip to Ireland: 6 Steps from Ireland’s Top Golf Operator
At Ireland By Locals, we get the best information from the best local experts.
John Dooley, owner of Concierge Golf Ireland & PGA Professional, shares how to plan your Irish golf trip.
Hi! Here are six steps to help you arrange the best golf and touring experiences to Ireland.
Planning a golf trip to Ireland can feel overwhelming with so many world-class courses and regions to choose from. As an Irish PGA professional who's been arranging golf tours for over 20 years, I've learned what makes the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Whether you're looking at championship links courses like Royal County Down or hidden parkland gems, here's how to plan your Ireland golf trip the right way.
1. Best Golf Courses in Ireland: Links vs Parkland
Ireland is home to world-famous courses like Royal County Down, Ballybunion Golf Club, Lahinch, Old Head Golf Links, The K Club, Mount Juliet and Portmarnock.
- Will you play Championship Golf Links v Parkland Golf Courses?
- Course reputation and difficulty
- Proximity to accommodations and transport routes (avoid long drives)
- Availability for group bookings (booked early)
- Choose courses to suit the group. (courses that are too hard or too long are not enjoyable)
Concierge Golf Ireland Tip: Mix legendary courses with hidden gems for a well-rounded experience.
2. How to Plan Your Ireland Golf Itinerary by Region
Group your golf courses by region and we have four main regions in Ireland (Southwest, Dublin & East, Northern Ireland & Northwest of Ireland) to reduce travel time. Build in:
- Plan longer travel times after playing golf and not before.
- Travel days and rest periods
- Sightseeing or cultural stops (Cliffs of Moher, Guinness Storehouse, Blarney Castle)
- Dining and local pub evenings (leave room for a few pints and local chowder) Irish Traditional Music.
- Weather! It's hard to plan for the best Irish weather, but typically from May until October, there will be sunshine and rain!! The best months are generally June through September for the most consistent conditions.
Concierge Golf Ireland Tip: Aim for 4 to 6 rounds over a 7 to 10 day trip for comfort and enjoyment. A break day after round 3 is good. There is lots to see and do, we also recommend not to pack too much into your itinerary and keep things to see and do as flexible as possible.
3. Ideal Group Size for Your Ireland Golf Tour
Ensure the group members all get along, there is nothing worse than a person that does not fit the group, a bad apple will upset the apple cart eventually. The best size of groups:
- Couples golf tours from 2 to 16.
- Groups of guys and girls from 4 to 16.
Concierge Golf Ireland Tip: Avoid inviting anyone that likes to be excessive, and bad at keeping time.
4. Golf Trip Transportation in Ireland: What Works Best
Transport is crucial, especially for a group of eight and more with clubs & luggage. Options include:
- Private chauffeur with luxury van or coach
- Self-drive vehicle rentals (ensure enough luggage/golf club space, best for groups of 4 or less)
- Helicopter travel from hotels to golf courses
Concierge Golf Ireland Tip: For stress-free travel, a chauffeur lets you focus on the golf and the Guinness.
5. Where to Stay on Your Ireland Golf Trip
Choose accommodations that balance comfort, convenience, and character:
- Hotels, standards run from 3* to 5*
- Golf resorts (like 5* Adare Manor, 5* Carton House, 5* The K Club)
- Boutique hotels or castles (5* Cashel Palace, 5* Dromoland Castle)
Concierge Golf Ireland Tip: Book everything at least 18 months in advance during peak season (May–October).
6. Ireland Golf Trip Extras: Caddies, Whiskey & More
Enhance the tour with unique extras:
- Caddie services (are a must) Please book caddies! Some courses are difficult and an extra set of eyes with sound advice is a lot better than trying to figure out a links course for the 1st time by yourself.
- Whiskey tastings or fine dining experiences
- Unique Irish sightseeing and storytelling tours
- In house dining experiences, create your own menu, chef and catering services
- Welcome gifts or commemorative gear (hats, beer holders, golf towels & etc)
Concierge Golf Ireland Tip: To reduce the incredible work load, contact Concierge Golf Ireland your Irish Golf Tour Operator can help with these details.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for a golf trip to Ireland? May through October offers the best weather, with June through September being most consistent. Avoid January through March for weather, but you'll find better rates and fewer crowds.
Do I need to book golf courses in advance in Ireland? Absolutely. Championship courses like Royal County Down and Ballybunion require booking 12-18 months ahead, especially for groups during peak season.
After 20+ years as an Irish PGA professional, I know what makes a golf trip unforgettable. Email Concierge Golf Ireland and I'll personally help plan your perfect Ireland golf experience.
