Ballybunion Golf Club

Ballybunion Golf Club is located on the rugged northwest coast of County Kerry. It’s known as one of the best places to play golf in Ireland. This historic club features two amazing 18-hole courses: the Old Course and the Cashen Course. Both are surrounded by stunning sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.

For golfers who want to enjoy links golf in Ireland, Ballybunion offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and challenges. If you’re planning a golf break in Kerry or want to check out the best golf courses in Ireland, Ballybunion’s classic design promises a memorable experience that will test your skills and reward your focus.

Course Layout of Ballybunion Golf Club

The Old Course at Ballybunion Golf Club opened in 1893 and is a fun and challenging course that stretches 6,802 yards and has a par of 72. As you play this course, you’ll see views of the Atlantic Ocean, especially on the front nine, which runs along the beach. The back nine takes you inland with hard shots and interesting changes in elevation, making each hole unique.

The Cashen Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1984, is slightly longer at 7,000 yards. This course features longer par-4 holes, higher tee boxes, and tougher rough, which makes it exciting but also a bit more challenging. It requires players to adjust to the unpredictable Irish winds, making it a great choice for skilled golfers looking for an intense coastal golf experience.

Course Challenges

Ballybunion is one of the best golf courses in Ireland because it is very challenging. The Old Course has some tough shots, like the famous “Hump” on the 5th hole, which can confuse players who aren’t familiar with the course. Strong winds make even simple shots harder, turning mistakes into hard situations.

The Cashen Course is even tougher. It’s longer and surrounded by big dunes, which means there aren’t many safe places to miss your shot. You might even need to use a longer club when the wind is blowing.

Playing here is not just a physical challenge; it also tests your mind. Even experienced players leave feeling both challenged and excited. If you love challenging links golf in Ireland, Ballybunion will help you improve your skills under pressure, far away from the easier parkland courses.

Signature Holes at Ballybunion Golf Club

A visit to Ballybunion wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its famous holes. The 11th hole on the Old Course, known as “The Rails,” is a 473-yard par-4 and is considered the best hole at the club, and maybe even one of the best in all of Ireland. Golfers need to hit their tee shots down a narrow path between railroad tracks and sand dunes. The second shot is hard because players must hit over a big gap to reach the green, which is well protected.

Another signature hole is the 14th, a par-5 that bends to the left, with the ocean crashing nearby. This hole encourages players to take risks as they play. On the Cashen Course, the 13th hole is a par-3 that offers a stunning view. It drops down to a bowl-shaped green, which creates a chance for birdies, but it also comes with some challenges.

These signature holes at Ballybunion show what makes the course special. A mix of beauty and tough play.

Facilities at Ballybunion Golf Club

Ballybunion Golf Club offers great facilities that make your visit more enjoyable than just playing golf. The clubhouse is modern and has a pro shop with high-quality gear. You can relax in the locker rooms that have saunas and enjoy fresh seafood and Irish dishes with ocean views at the Strand Bar & Restaurant.

There are caddies, buggies, and club rentals to make your game smooth and easy. You can also practice before your round at areas like a driving range and putting green.

If you want to stay longer, places like Teach de Broc nearby provide comfortable lodging for golfers, along with secure storage for your clubs. All these features make Ballybunion not just a golf course, but a full golf resort in Ireland.

Hosted Tournaments

Ballybunion is known for its rich history in golf. It hosted the Murphy’s Irish Open in 2000, attracting players from around the world. The venue also held the Home Internationals in 2003 and the Palmer Cup in 2004, which was a match between teams from Europe and the U.S., similar to the Ryder Cup. In 2006, the Irish Amateur Close Championship took place at Ballybunion, further highlighting its importance in Irish golf.

Book Now

Ballybunion Golf Club captures the true spirit of links golf in Ireland. It’s a stunning course that offers a unique experience for every golfer. Make sure to book your tee time at this course and discover why so many golfers feel inspired by its charm.