Hogs Head Golf Club

Located on the Hogs Head peninsula in Waterville, County Kerry, Hogs Head Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in Ireland. It offers a unique mix of beautiful scenery and luxe design. Created by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and opened in 2017, this private members’ club is all about “built by friends, for friends, for fun.”

The course covers 150 acres of clifftop land along the Ring of Kerry, showcasing scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Ballinskelligs Bay, the Finglas River, and the Kerry Mountains. If you’re looking for a challenging golf experience in County Kerry, Hogs Head has a par-72 layout that stretches 7,155 yards from the back tees. It features five par-3 and five par-5 holes that test your skill and strategy in Ireland’s coastal landscape.

Course Layout of Hogs Head Golf Course

Hogs Head’s routing masterfully integrates the site’s contours, transforming the former Skellig Bay course into a modern links-style masterpiece. Over 8,000 meters of stone walls were removed, and more than 100,000 tons of sand were added to ensure firm, fast playing surfaces that evoke classic seaside challenges. The front nine winds through river valleys and elevated dunes, while the back nine climbs to cliffside perches, culminating in infinity-edge greens that appear to spill into the sea. This design rewards strategic shot-making, making it a must-play for enthusiasts of Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf courses.

Course Challenges

Hogs Head is a unique and challenging golf course in Ireland, known for its strong coastal winds. These winds add extra difficulty to the course’s hilly fairways and steep greens. The five par-5 holes require big drives and careful shots, especially when dealing with the changing winds. The par-3 holes, which sit on high cliffs, need precise accuracy to avoid falling off the edge. With tough turf and hard bunkers, players will find that scoring low takes patience and smart planning, rather than just hitting hard.

Signature Holes at Hogs Head

Golfers love the special holes at Hogs Head, each one showing off creative design. The 6th hole, called “Shake Hands,” is a long par-5 with Europe’s only Biarritz green on a par-5. It has a big slope from front to back that makes putting hard. The 9th hole is a long par-4 that leads to a tiny punchbowl green. This green catches wayward shots but punishes players who take too many risks. The most exciting hole is the 13th, known as “Kathleen’s Choice.” It’s a clifftop par-3 with two infinity greens offering distances from 165 to 230 yards. This design lets golfers adjust based on the weather while enjoying stunning views of the ocean below.

Facilities in Waterville, Ireland

At Hogs Head, golfers can enjoy a range of great facilities. The luxurious clubhouse includes great dining options and a pro shop filled with high-quality golf gear. They also have a modern golf simulator room, allowing for practice all year round.

For those looking to stay overnight, they offer seven private cottages. Each cottage has four bedrooms, en-suite baths, and amazing views, making them perfect for a golf break in Ireland.

In addition to golfing, you can relax at the spa, explore hiking trails, or take a helicopter tour to combine your 36-hole day at Hogs Head with nearby Waterville Links.

Hosted Tournaments

Hogs Head has quickly become a popular place for member-hosted golf tournaments, bringing together its 550 members from around the world. Some of the biggest events are the Father & Son Tournament, the Genesis Invitational, and the Men’s Member-Member tournament. These events attract top amateur players who enjoy friendly competition in a fun atmosphere.

The Mick O’Dwyer Annual Golf Classic is another highlight, bringing in local golf legends and visitors to play for charity every October. In 2017, Hogs Head was named Golf.com’s Best New International Course, and it continues to host events that celebrate the enjoyment of golf and friendship.

Book Now

Hogs Head Golf Club is a place for anyone looking for a great golf experience in Ireland. Whether you’re playing on its stunning cliffs or relaxing in its beautiful facilities, each visit promises to create wonderful memories. Book your round today and see why so many golfers love this spot in Kerry!