Irelands Hidden Gem Golf Courses

Atlantic Way Golf is world-renowned for its legendary golf destinations — think Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Royal County Down. But beyond the famous fairways lies another side to Irish golf: a collection of hidden gems tucked between rugged coastlines, quiet villages, and rolling green countryside. These lesser-known courses offer the same breathtaking scenery and warm Irish welcome, without the crowds or the price tags. Whether you’re chasing a new challenge or simply want to play where the locals go, Ireland’s hidden golf gems are waiting to be discovered.

For golfers worldwide, Ireland’s hidden courses offer something truly special — authentic links golf set against dramatic Atlantic backdrops, paired with genuine local hospitality and world-class accommodations. Whether it’s walking the windswept dunes of the west coast, discovering a family-run course with a century of history, or finishing your round in a cozy seaside pub, we design every itinerary to capture the soul of Irish golf.

So, where should you tee off first? Here are some of our favorite under-the-radar courses along Ireland’s Atlantic coast that deserve a spot on your next golf itinerary.

1. Enniscrone Golf Club – County Sligo

Tucked away on the wild Atlantic coast, Enniscrone is a true links masterpiece that delivers both challenge and beauty in equal measure. Sweeping dunes frame fairways that twist and turn through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of Killala Bay. It’s golf at its most natural — raw, windswept, and utterly unforgettable. Many visitors say it feels like discovering a secret you almost don’t want to share.

2. Carne Golf Links – County Mayo

Few courses capture the untamed spirit of the west like Carne. Designed by the legendary Eddie Hackett, this remote gem is carved into dramatic dunes overlooking Blacksod Bay. The layout is as thrilling as the scenery — every shot feels like an adventure. Carne isn’t just a round of golf; it’s a pilgrimage for purists seeking golf in its truest form.

3. Connemara Golf Links – County Galway

Where the rugged beauty of the Twelve Bens mountains meets the Atlantic, you’ll find Connemara — a course that seems to exist in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Expect dramatic landscapes, shifting winds, and holes that demand creativity as much as precision. After your round, the warm hospitality in nearby Clifden completes the experience.

4. Strandhill Golf Club – County Sligo

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, County Sligo Golf Club, Strandhill is a delightful surprise. This lively seaside course winds through towering dunes with ocean views at nearly every turn. It’s fun, scenic, and full of character — the kind of place where the locals greet you by name and the post-round pint tastes just a little better.

Whether you’re seeking a true links challenge or a peaceful round surrounded by nature, these courses embody the best of Ireland’s hidden golf scene. At Atlantic Way Golf, we bring these destinations to life — combining exceptional golf with handpicked accommodations, local experiences, and seamless travel planning. Ireland’s hidden gems are waiting. All you need to do is bring your clubs.