When it comes to unforgettable golfing destinations, Ireland is the crown jewel. Imagine teeing off on dramatic coastal links with the Atlantic waves crashing beside you, wrapping up a round with a pint of Guinness in a centuries-old pub, and swapping stories with your golf buddies.
At Swing Golf, we can make this trip of a lifetime a reality. With the right help, you can design a once-in-a-lifetime golf tour that checks all the boxes: world-class courses, seamless travel, and legendary Irish hospitality.
We plan Irish golf trips for all types of buddy tours. From birthday celebrations, to college reunions, business trips and those who just want to play some seriously good golf! If it’s your first time organising a buddy tour to Ireland, don’t worry, we will ensure it all goes smoothly.
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Rally Your Golf Crew
Before you take off, consider which airport will be best situated for your trip. Dublin and Shannon are the most popular, with direct flights available from New York, Boston, Toronto and Chicago.
Organising Tip: Appoint one group leader who coordinates directly with us at Swing Golf Ireland. We’ll streamline the planning process and keep everyone informed – because every great golf buddy tour starts with the right team.
When planning your trip to Swing, the earlier the better. Booking patterns typically begin up to 18 months in advance. Once the diaries open and your group has an idea of preferred dates and approximate pricing, it’s important to move quickly to secure your place. Swing welcomes a wide range of groups each year, including college friends reuniting, work colleagues on a getaway, golf clubs, and families coming together for a special occasion. And it’s not just for golfers. Many groups include non-golfers, such as spouses or friends, who enjoy exploring Ireland’s local culture, scenic tours, shopping, spas, and more while others hit the course. There’s something for everyone.
Step 2: Choose Your Bucket-List Courses
One of the best parts of planning a dream golf tour is selecting your courses, and in Ireland, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of champions or explore hidden gems, here are some standout options:
Southwest Ireland
- Ballybunion (Old Course) – A coastal beauty with legendary holes
- Waterville – Seaside serenity with a top-tier challenge
- Lahinch Golf Club – Links golf at its finest, steeped in tradition
Northern Ireland
- Royal County Down – A true masterpiece, often ranked #1 in the world
- Royal Portrush – Host of The Open, dramatic and elite
East Coast & Dublin
- Portmarnock – Minutes from Dublin, but feels like a world away
- The Island Golf Club – Rugged dunes and pure links joy
North West Coast
- Old Head Golf Links – Possibly the most scenic course on Earth
- Tralee – Designed by Arnold Palmer, where the course rivals the views
- Sligo – Stunning views of Rosses Point and Sligo harbour
- Carne – Breathtaking views over the wild Atlantic Ocean
- Enniscrone – Panoramic views of Killala Bay, Bartra Island and sandy beaches
Need course selection help? Let Swing Golf Ireland plan your tour, and we’ll match your preferences, location, and budget with the perfect mix of iconic and lesser-known courses. View our golf map of Ireland to explore all your choices.
Royal County Down Golf Club
Step 3: Choose the Best Time to Go on your Irish Golf Trip
Ireland’s golfing season typically runs from April through October, but each month offers something unique.
| May to July | August to September | April and October |
| Prime time with long days, mild weather, and perfect conditions | Slightly great weather with slightly fewer crowds | Shoulder season deals and more tee time flexibility |
Insider Insight: June offers some of the longest daylight hours in Europe, ideal for squeezing in an extra nine holes!
Step 4: Customise Your Experience Beyond the Course
A dream golf trip to Ireland is about more than just golf. It’s also about the culture, the landscapes, and the unforgettable moments off the fairway with your buddies. At Swing Golf, we help you plan an experience, not just a schedule.
Accommodation Options
- Stay in luxurious castles, boutique hotels, or local guesthouses
- Enjoy on-course resorts or central city stays for nightlife and dining
Local Experiences
- Whiskey tasting tours at Jameson or Bushmills distilleries
- Traditional Irish music nights in authentic pubs
- Day trips to the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, or the Giant’s Causeway
Want it all handled? We’ll plan the perfect balance of golf, travel, and leisure so your group has time to relax between rounds.
Great Southern Killarney Hotel, Kerry, Ireland
Step 5: Leave the Logistics to Swing Golf Ireland
We specialise in crafting premium golf trips, so we know the exact support you need when planning from abroad.
Here’s what you can expect with Swing Golf Ireland:
- Tee times secured well in advance
- Private transfers between courses, hotels, and airports
- Caddie bookings, club rentals, and course recommendations
- 24/7 support while you’re in Ireland
- Custom itineraries with your budget and pace in mind
Whether it’s a luxury 10-day coastal tour or a 4-day links blitz, our local team takes care of every detail.
Step 6: Prepare for a Smooth and Enjoyable Tour
Finally, once you are planned and ready, make sure to take a look at our other guides to Golfing in Ireland, that cover essential information such as etiquette, weather and what to pack.
Old Course, Ballybunion Golf Club
‘Swing Golf was an absolute pleasure to work with throughout the process. Ultimately, Swing Golf was able to provide the experience we sought out for the best price. From an American’s perspective, booking tee times and travel in a different country can be intimidating. It was nice to have this done for us before we arrived.’
– J. Straker, SWING Golf customer.
Irish Golf Trips – Your Dream Golf Buddy Tour Starts Here
Planning a golf tour doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right support, you and your friends can experience the magic of Irish golf without the stress.
At Swing Golf Ireland, we take care of every detail from tee time to toast so you can focus on your swing and soak up every unforgettable moment.
Ready to start planning? Use our Tour Planner here
