Ballybunion, Ireland

⛳

Experience the finest golf courses Ballybunion has to offer

Golf Courses & Reviews: Ballybunion, County Kerry – A Golfer's Paradise

Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses

Ballybunion, a name synonymous with links golf excellence, offers a dramatic coastline and challenging layouts that have captivated golfers for over a century. Here's a detailed look at the courses, highlighting their unique characteristics and local significance.

1. Old Course: The Jewel in the Crown

Signature Holes: The 17th and 18th holes are legendary – dramatic cliff-top par 4s with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. The 17th, in particular, is a memorable finish, demanding accuracy and strategic club selection.
Design Notes: Designed by Old Tom Morris, the Old Course is a classic links layout, shaped by the natural contours of the coastline. It features undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging green complexes. The course is heavily influenced by the prevailing westerly winds, making club selection crucial.
Local Terrain Adaptations: The course seamlessly integrates with the rugged coastal terrain. Bunkers are often positioned to protect greens from the wind and to accentuate the dramatic views.
Local Culture: The Old Course holds immense historical significance for the local golfing community. It's a course steeped in tradition, played by generations of Kerry golfers. Winning a major championship here is considered a true honour.
Green Fee: €150 - €200 (approx. $170 - $220 USD)
Cart Fee: €40 (approx. $45 USD)
Caddie: Highly recommended (€40-€50, approx. $45-$55 USD)

2. Cashel Course: A More Forgiving, Yet Still Challenging Experience

Signature Holes: The 14th, a short par 3 perched above the cliffs, offers a thrilling approach. The 18th, a reachable par 4, requires a well-struck drive to avoid trouble.
Design Notes: The Cashel Course is a slightly more forgiving layout than the Old Course, with wider fairways and less severe bunkering. However, it still presents a significant challenge, particularly in windy conditions.
Local Terrain Adaptations: The course is built on flatter land compared to the Old Course, but still benefits from the coastal location, with strategically placed bunkers and greens that are often exposed to the wind.
Local Culture: The Cashel Course is a popular choice for local golfers and visitors alike. It's a great introduction to Ballybunion's links golf and offers a more relaxed pace of play.
Green Fee: €120 - €160 (approx. $140 - $180 USD)
Cart Fee: €40 (approx. $45 USD)
Caddie: Optional (€35-€45, approx. $40-$50 USD)

3. Dune Course: A Hidden Gem with Stunning Coastal Views

Signature Holes: The 5th, a challenging par 3 with a dramatic approach over a ravine, and the 17th, a demanding par 4 with a blind tee shot, are particularly memorable.
Design Notes: The Dune Course is a more recent addition to the Ballybunion complex, designed to complement the existing courses. It features undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging green complexes.
Local Terrain Adaptations: The course is built on dunes, giving it a unique character and a strong connection to the coastal environment.
Local Culture: The Dune Course is popular with local golfers seeking a challenging but rewarding experience. It's a great option for those looking to escape the crowds of the Old and Cashel courses.
Green Fee: €100 - €140 (approx. $110 - $160 USD)
Cart Fee: €40 (approx. $45 USD)
Caddie: Optional (€30-€40, approx. $35-$45 USD)

4. Ladies Course: A Gentle Introduction to Ballybunion's Beauty

Signature Holes: The 9th, a picturesque par 3 overlooking the ocean, and the 18th, a gentle par 4 finishing with a scenic approach, are highlights.
Design Notes: Designed for all skill levels, the Ladies Course offers a more relaxed and accessible golfing experience. It features shorter holes, wider fairways, and less severe bunkering.
Local Terrain Adaptations: The course is designed to showcase the beauty of the coastal landscape, with strategically placed greens and bunkers that enhance the views.
Local Culture: The Ladies Course is a popular choice for local golfers of all ages and abilities. It's a great option for families and those looking for a more relaxed round of golf.
Green Fee: €80 - €100 (approx. $90 - $110 USD)
Cart Fee: €40 (approx. $45 USD)
Caddie: Optional (€25-€35, approx. $30-$40 USD)

5. The Old Course (9-hole): A Taste of the Classic

Signature Holes: A condensed version of the Old Course, offering a taste of its iconic holes.
Design Notes: A shorter, more accessible version of the Old Course, ideal for a quick round or for those new to the course.
Local Terrain Adaptations: Maintains the classic links character of the Old Course.
Local Culture: A popular option for visitors wanting to experience the Old Course without committing to a full 18 holes.
Green Fee: €60 - €80 (approx. $70 - $90 USD)
Cart Fee: €30 (approx. $35 USD)
Caddie: Not available.

6. The Cashel Course (9-hole): A Quick Coastal Fix

Signature Holes: Highlights of the Cashel Course, offering a taste of its coastal beauty.
Design Notes: A shorter, more accessible version of the Cashel Course.
Local Terrain Adaptations: Maintains the classic links character of the Cashel Course.
Local Culture: A popular option for visitors wanting to experience the Cashel Course without committing to a full 18 holes.
Green Fee: €50 - €70 (approx. $55 - $80 USD)
Cart Fee: €30 (approx. $35 USD)
Caddie: Not available.

7. The Dune Course (9-hole): A Coastal Preview

Signature Holes: Highlights of the Dune Course, showcasing its unique dune landscape.
Design Notes: A shorter, more accessible version of the Dune Course.
Local Terrain Adaptations: Maintains the dune character of the Dune Course.
Local Culture: A popular option for visitors wanting to experience the Dune Course without committing to a full 18 holes.
Green Fee: €50 - €70 (approx. $55 - $80 USD)
Cart Fee: €30 (approx. $35 USD)
Caddie: Not available.

Hidden Gems

Waterville Golf Links (County Laois): While not in Kerry, a short drive from Ballybunion, Waterville offers a stunning links course with a rich history. It's a popular choice for golfers seeking a more secluded and less crowded experience.
Ross Castle Golf Club (County Killarney): A charming 9-hole course with beautiful views of Ross Castle and the lakes. It's a great option for a relaxed round and a taste of local golfing life.

Premium Options

Waterville Golf Links (County Laois): A championship course with a long history and a reputation for challenging play.
Royal County Down Golf Club (County Down): One of the finest links courses in the world, offering a truly unforgettable golfing experience.

Value Champions

Ladies Course (Ballybunion): Offers excellent value for money.
9-hole versions of Ballybunion's courses: A budget-friendly way to experience the iconic layouts.

International Golfer Essentials

Difficulty & Standards

Handicap Ratings: USGA handicap ratings are generally lower than those used in Ireland. Expect a course rating of around 71-73 for the main courses in Ballybunion.
Slope Ratings: USGA slope ratings are also typically lower than those used in Ireland.
Local vs. International: Local golfers are generally very skilled, and the courses are challenging even for experienced players.

Language Considerations

English Proficiency: English is widely spoken throughout Ireland, so communication is rarely a problem.
Key Golf Terms: "Fore" (warning), "Amen" (after a shot), "Strokes" (number of shots taken), "Fairway" (short grass between tee and green), "Rough" (longer grass off the fairway).
Communication Tips: Be polite and respectful, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Cultural Golf Etiquette

Local Customs: Maintain a respectful silence while others are addressing the ball. Avoid talking during a player's swing.
Dress Codes: Smart casual attire is generally acceptable. Golf trousers or shorts are appropriate, and collared shirts are preferred. Avoid jeans, t-shirts, and athletic wear.
Pace of Play: Maintain a brisk pace of play. Be ready to play when it's your turn.
Tipping Practices: Tipping is not customary in Ireland, but it is appreciated for exceptional service from caddies.

Booking Requirements

Advance Reservations: Booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Documentation Needs: Passport or other valid identification is required for all visitors.
Guest Policies: Most courses allow guests, but it's important to check the specific policies of each course.

Seasonal & Climate Intelligence

Monthly Playing Guide

Month	Weather Patterns	Rainfall (mm)	Temperature (°C)	Optimal Playing Conditions
January	Cold, wet, windy	80-100	2-7	Limited
February	Cold, wet, windy	70-90	2-7	Limited
March	Gradually improving, still wet and windy	70-80	5-10	Improving
April	Variable, improving, occasional sunshine	60-70	8-13	Good
May	Mild, increasingly dry, pleasant	40-50	12-17	Excellent
June	Mild, dry, sunny	30-40	15-20	Excellent
July	Warm, dry, sunny	20-30	18-25	Excellent
August	Warm, dry, sunny	20-30	18-25	Excellent
September	Mild, dry, sunny	20-30	15-20	Excellent
October	Variable, increasingly wet and windy	70-80	10-15	Good
November	Cold, wet, windy	80-100	2-7	Limited
December	Cold, wet, windy	80-100	2-7	Limited