Nestled amidst the majestic Ballinskelligs Bay and crowned by the spectacular MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range, Waterville Golf Club is a truly breathtaking setting. Harmoniously combining natural wonders with innovative design, Waterville is a haven for golfers seeking an unforgettable experience.
Initially a 9-hole course, the visionary American golfer, John “Jack” Mulcahy transformed Waterville Golf Course into the world-class links it is today. Mulcahy and his architects rerouted and reconfigured the original nine, creating a new layout that weaves amongst some of the most dramatic dunes in Irish golf. Enjoy this stunning course on its own or as a stop on the beautiful South West Ireland Golf Tour.
Founded in 1889, Waterville Golf Club was one of the first clubs to join the Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI). In 1891, the GUI became the first golf union established in the world and Waterville and its members have played an important role in the development of golf in Ireland ever since.
Completed in the modern era opening in 1973, the course can be stretched to over 7,300 yards from the tips and players should heed what is to follow with the first hole aptly named “Last Easy.” Other notable holes include the 17th “Mulcahy’s Peak” whose tee is the highest point of the course and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
The famous 12th hole called “Mass” pays homage to the Catholic worshippers that used the neighboring depression to practice their religion and escape persecution. Originally, that historic depression was intended to be part of the hole’s design, but it was decided by Hackett not to incorporate the sacred ground.
While Waterville is perhaps the most famous, and certainly the highest-rated Killarney golf course, there are several other standouts in the Ring of Kerry golf family. Including the Ring of Kerry Golf Course and the two championship courses; Kileen and Mahoney’s Point at the Killarney Golf & Fish Club.
Waterville Golf Club, a must-play on every southwest Ireland golf itinerary, is a private club and enjoys a very active local, country, and overseas membership. They are very proud of their magnificent links and therefore allow limited visitor play so others may experience it in person.
However, as is the case with many of the highly rated courses their visitor diary fills quickly, and it is suggested to plan well in advance, a year or more, prior to your scheduled visit to not be disappointed.
Set against the rugged beauty of South West Ireland, Waterville Golf Club lies between Ballinskelligs Bay and the majestic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. This world-class course offers a unique blend of natural splendor, rich history, and exceptional design.
Positioned on a rare isthmus of natural dune-land, it’s bordered by the Wild Atlantic Ocean, the Inny River and Estuary, and native bogland. This unique setting creates a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere that’s truly one of a kind.
Each hole is carefully shaped by the surrounding dunes, giving a sense of privacy and serenity, while native flora adds texture and color to the fairways and greens. The Irish Hare, proudly featured as the club’s emblem, is a regular sight on the course, alongside over fifty bird species that call the links home.
Originally crafted by Eddie Hackett and later refined by acclaimed architect Tom Fazio, Waterville Golf Links is consistently ranked among the top five courses in Ireland and the top 20 links courses in the world. Just beyond the course lies the charming village of Waterville, renowned for its angling heritage and the scenic Lough Currane, completing an unforgettable golfing escape in Ireland.
Unlike many Irish courses born from British military influence, golf came to Waterville through innovation. In the late 1800s, workers building transatlantic cable stations arrived from Valentia Island to Ballinskelligs and finally to Waterville. With them came golf, played simply at first, often in winter when the grass lay low.
By 1889, the sport had taken root under the Waterville Athletic Club and became a fixture in the village. A modest nine-hole course served workers from the Commercial Cable Company until the mid-20th century, when changing technology brought a long pause, until the arrival of John A. Mulcahy, who revived and reimagined the course.
Over the years, the charm of Waterville has drawn legends of a different kind. Charlie Chaplin was a regular visitor, honored today by the annual two-day AM-AM tournament held in his name. While its remote location makes it an unlikely venue for major championships, Waterville remains a bucket-list destination for discerning golfers. Like Ballybunion, it offers more than just a test of skill: it offers an experience, one that leaves many feeling they’ve stumbled upon a hidden treasure along the wild Atlantic edge of Ireland.
Allan O’Connor, Ireland Operations Manager
The Killarney Park is a standout stay for me, not just for its central location which makes it easy to enjoy the charm of Killarney after golf, but for the genuine warmth and five-star comfort that greets you the moment you arrive. It strikes that rare balance between luxury and a welcoming, home-like feel.
Play Waterville as part of a South West Ireland golf tour. Include Tralee, Ballybunion, Old Head, and Lahinch, on a golf package filled with the best coastline golf courses that South West Ireland has to offer.
6 nights accommodation and 5 rounds of golf
From $6,172 per golfer
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Waterville is home to one golf course, which is an 18-hole golf course. This renowned course offers golfers the opportunity to enjoy a challenging and picturesque round of golf in the beautiful surroundings of Waterville.
The closest airport to Waterville Golf Links is Shannon Airport. It is approximately a 3-hour transfer from the golf course. Shannon Airport offers convenient access for travelers, including direct flights from the USA.
To book a tee time at Waterville Golf Links, a renowned golf course in southwest Ireland, you can do so by booking through Premier Golf as part of a Southwest Ireland golf package. Premier Golf specializes in creating exceptional golf experiences for enthusiasts and can assist you in securing tee times at Waterville Golf Links.
As per the latest information the green fee is from €300 for 2023. At Premier Golf the green fee is always included within the package.