If you’re dreaming of cool breezes, emerald fairways, and pint-laced sunsets, Dublin should be top of your golfing hit list. Ireland’s capital delivers everything a heat-weary golfer could want: world-class courses cooled by Atlantic air, dramatic coastal backdrops, and a warm Irish welcome.
Dream of tackling the challenging championship links where the greats have triumphed, with a cooling wind in your face, it couldn’t be easier, as Emirates offer two direct daily flights into the Irish capital.
Throw in some Michelin-starred meals, luxury hotels, and a post-round Guinness with a view, and Dublin becomes more than a golfing destination—it becomes your summer sanctuary. Let’s dive into the best fairways, food, and fun the Emerald City has to offer.
Portmarnock Golf Club: The Crown Jewel of Irish Links
Nestled on a peninsula jutting into the Irish Sea just 10 miles north of Dublin, Portmarnock Golf Club is widely considered the gold standard for Irish links golf. Established in 1894, the club boasts over a century of rich golfing heritage. Originally laid out by Mungo Park and his brother Willie—both Open Championship winners—the course has been meticulously shaped over time into one of the purest tests of links golf in the world.
With 27 holes, the main championship layout (Blue and Red nines) has been the stage for some of golf’s most historic moments. It has hosted the Irish Open 19 times, the Walker Cup in 1991, and numerous Amateur Championships. The natural linksland, rolling dunes, and ever-present coastal winds mean no two rounds are ever the same.
What makes Portmarnock so revered is its uncompromising fairness. As the legendary Tom Watson put it, “There are no tricks or nasty surprises. Only an honest examination of your game.” The par-4 15th is often cited as one of the best holes in the world—a long dogleg that demands both power and precision, with the Irish Sea lapping just yards away. The par-3 12th, measuring over 170 yards and exposed to crosswinds, is another standout, with a devilishly small green framed by bunkers and sea breeze.
While the club maintains a traditional air, the welcome is warm, and visiting players are encouraged to experience the history. The old-world clubhouse, with views over the course and bay, rounds off a day at one of the most iconic golf venues not just in Ireland—but across the globe.
In short, Portmarnock doesn’t just live up to the hype—it defines it.
Royal Dublin Golf Club: The Gentleman’s Test on Bull Island
Founded in 1885, Royal Dublin Golf Club is Ireland’s second-oldest golf club and stands as a living monument to the game’s enduring traditions. Designed originally by W.H. Pickeman and later reimagined by Harry Colt in the 1920s, the course sprawls across the windswept Bull Island nature reserve in Dublin Bay. With the sea on either side and the city skyline in the distance, it offers a uniquely serene yet challenging links experience.
Royal Dublin’s flat terrain belies its toughness. This is a classic out-and-back layout, with the front nine heading straight out toward the bay and the back nine returning to the clubhouse—usually into the prevailing wind. It’s a layout that demands patience, precision, and a steady hand with the flatstick.
A course that once tested the likes of Christy O’Connor Sr., who called it home, Royal Dublin has played host to the Irish Open multiple times. The par-4 16th, nicknamed “The Plateau,” is a knee-knocker: a dogleg right with a brutally raised green that punishes anything short. The 18th is a classic finisher, requiring a gutsy second shot over bunkers to a green that sits invitingly close to the members sipping pints behind the glass.
After the round, tradition continues in the cozy and character-rich clubhouse, where the spirit of Irish golf’s golden era lives on. For lovers of old-school links with a touch of regal flair, Royal Dublin is a must.
The Island Golf Club: Links Golf in the Raw
If you crave drama in your golf—towering dunes, blind shots, and an omnipresent sea breeze—then The Island Golf Club is your kind of heaven. Founded in 1890, this links marvel lies tucked between Donabate and Malahide on a narrow spit of land, surrounded by sea on three sides. Originally only accessible by boat, the course is now connected by a causeway, but it hasn’t lost one ounce of its remote, rugged charm.
This is pure, untamed links golf, where each shot is dictated by the wind and the land. The terrain is wildly natural, with rolling fairways, undulating greens, and some of the most intimidating dunes in Irish golf. There are no gimmicks here—just a stern examination of every club in your bag.
The par-3 13th, known as “Old Clubhouse,” is iconic: a slightly downhill shot into a green perched among dunes and wind-whipped grasses. And the par-4 14th is a beast—a blind tee shot between grassy ridges followed by an uphill approach to a devilish green.
Routinely ranked among the top 10 courses in Ireland, The Island has quietly built a reputation as a hidden gem—though word is certainly out. Rory McIlroy and Padraig Harrington have both praised its unique challenge and natural setting. And once you’ve walked these fairways, you’ll be waxing lyrical too.
Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links: A Modern Links with Heritage Soul
For those looking to combine heritage, luxury, and serious golf, the Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is your one-stop shop. Originally opened in 1995 and reimagined by Ryder Cup legend Bernhard Langer, this course delivers a fresh take on the links experience with a nod to the past—set on the historic Jameson family estate where Ireland’s famous whiskey was once distilled.
Unlike its older neighbour Portmarnock Golf Club, this course features a more modern layout with elevation changes, expansive views of the Irish Sea, and bold green complexes. It’s strategic without being punishing, playable but no pushover—ideal for visiting golfers who want a true Irish links experience without losing too many balls.
The par-5 3rd, called “Burrow,” is a highlight—playing downhill with the beach to your left and views stretching toward Howth Head. And the 17th, a long par-4 called “The Dunes,” is as beautiful as it is brutal, flanked by fescue-covered hills and often playing into the wind.
The resort also offers luxury accommodation, fine dining, and an onsite spa—making it perfect for a golf getaway with a touch of indulgence. And with Portmarnock Golf Club literally next door, you can tick two iconic courses off your list in one trip.
Whether you’re playing or relaxing with a Jameson in hand, this place oozes laid-back class with championship ambition.
Beyond the Greens: Dublin’s Culinary Delights
After a day on the course, Dublin’s vibrant food scene awaits. Here are some top picks:
- Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen: A Michelin-starred establishment offering contemporary Irish cuisine in an elegant setting.
- SOLE Seafood & Grill: Renowned for its fresh seafood and stylish ambiance.
- Etto: A cozy spot delivering Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a modern twist.
- Glovers Alley: An upscale restaurant offering innovative dishes with panoramic views of St. Stephen’s Green.
Rest Your Head: Dublin’s Top Stays
Whether you’re seeking luxury or boutique charm, Dublin has accommodations to suit every taste:
- The Merrion Hotel: A five-star hotel boasting Georgian elegance and a renowned art collection.
- The Westbury: Located in the heart of the city, it offers plush rooms and exceptional service.
- The Dean Dublin: A trendy boutique hotel known for its vibrant décor and rooftop bar.
- The Alex: A stylish hotel blending modern design with comfort, perfect for urban explorers.
Explore the City
Dublin’s allure extends beyond golf:
- Guinness Storehouse: Dive into the history of Ireland’s iconic brew and enjoy a pint with panoramic city views.
- Trinity College & The Book of Kells: Marvel at the illuminated manuscript and the stunning Long Room library.
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Explore the Gothic architecture and rich history of Ireland’s largest cathedral.
Day Trips: Discover Ireland’s Natural Beauty
Extend your adventure with these nearby attractions:
- Wicklow Mountains National Park: Experience breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails.Where2Golf+18GOLFPASS US+18Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links+18
- Brú na Bóinne: Explore ancient Neolithic sites older than the pyramids.Albrecht Golf Travel
- Powerscourt Estate: Stroll through magnificent gardens and visit the historic mansion.
Final Thoughts
Dublin seamlessly blends its rich golfing heritage with a vibrant cultural scene, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re teeing off on historic links, savouring gourmet delights, or exploring ancient landmarks, the city promises memories that will last a lifetime.
