Waterville Golf Links

Overview

Waterville Golf Links sits on a rugged promontory on the south‑west coast of County Kerry, where the Atlantic Ocean, Ballinskelligs Bay and the Inny River estuary converge. The 18‑hole, par‑72 championship layout stretches 7,378 yards (7,325 yds according to some sources) across undulating dunes, native grasses and gorse, delivering a true links experience that is rare even in the British Isles. Consistently ranked among the best courses in Ireland – 2nd by the Golf Channel and 3rd by Golf World UK – the Links is also a fixture in the UK & Ireland Top 100 (ranked 23 for 2025/26). Its dramatic setting, with panoramic views of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks to the north‑east and the Atlantic to the south‑west, makes every round feel like a pilgrimage.

History

The roots of golf in Waterville date back to 1889 when a modest nine‑hole layout was first laid out on the eastern side of the present course. The early club was formed by workers building the trans‑Atlantic telegraph cable stations on the Iveragh Peninsula; they played on the low‑lying grass during winter months. In 1891 Waterville became one of the founding members of the Golfing Union of Ireland – the world’s first national golf union.

After a period of dormancy, Irish‑American Jack Mulcahy acquired the estate in the late 1960s and commissioned Eddie Hackett – Ireland’s most prolific golf architect – together with former Masters champion Claude Harmon to create a modern links. The new 18‑hole course opened in 1973 and was later refined by world‑renowned architect Tom Fazio, whose coastal‑management project ensured the course’s longevity against erosion.

The Butler family built the original estate in the 18th century, and the town later became a hub for trans‑Atlantic telegraph cables. The course has welcomed legends such as Tiger Woods, Mark O’Meara, Payne Stewart, Raymond Floyd and Nick Faldo, and even hosted a warm‑up for the Open Championship. Payne Stewart was appointed honorary captain before his untimely death, and a bronze statue commemorates his connection to the Links.

What to See & Do

The Course

The front nine is relatively flat, winding along the estuary, while the back nine traverses towering dunes and finishes on three spectacular holes that hug the Atlantic. Highlights include:

• Mulcahy’s Peak (17th) – the highest tee on the course, offering sweeping sea‑to‑mountain panoramas. Jack Mulcahy’s ashes were interred here after his passing in 1994.
• Tranquility (11th) – a 500‑yard par‑5 that runs through a narrow corridor of dunes, often cited as the most beautiful hole in Ireland.
• Liam’s Ace (16th) – a 366‑yard par‑4 where local pro Liam Higgins recorded a hole‑in‑one; the hole is now named in his honour.
• Mass Hole (12th) – originally intended to be built over a hidden valley used for clandestine Catholic Masses during penal times; the green was relocated to protect the sacred site, giving the hole a poignant historical layer.

Clubhouse & Amenities

The clubhouse underwent a full refurbishment in 2019, delivering modern locker rooms, a well‑stocked golf shop and dining facilities with indoor and outdoor seating. The on‑site 1889 Bar & Restaurant, run by international chef Rob O’Mahony, serves fresh Irish seafood and seasonal produce while offering uninterrupted views over Ballinskelligs Bay.

For those wishing to stay on the property, Waterville House – an 18th‑century Georgian manor – provides 12 luxury bedrooms, en‑suite facilities, a sauna, steam room, health suite and preferred tee‑times. Its location on the Wild Atlantic Way means guests can step out of their room and onto the first tee.

Practice Facilities

• Full‑length driving range (designed by Tom Fazio)
• Chipping area with practice bunker
• Large putting green adjacent to the clubhouse
• Electric buggy hire and cart hire available for those who prefer not to walk the dunes
• PGA‑qualified coaching staff on‑site for lessons

Wildlife & Environment

Waterville’s emblem is the Irish hare, a frequent sight across the dunes. Over fifty bird species, including gulls, terns and the occasional peregrine falcon, nest on the links, making early‑morning rounds a treat for birdwatchers. The course sits within the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, offering excellent stargazing opportunities on clear evenings.

Events

Waterville hosts a busy calendar of tournaments that showcase both elite and amateur talent:

• Noel Cronin Memorial Tournament – 25‑27 June (stroke‑play event attracting club members and visitors)
• The Kerry Cup – 5‑9 July (a week‑long competition featuring regional clubs)
• World Invitational Father & Son Tournament – 5‑8 August (family‑focused event)
• Charlie Chaplin AM‑AM – two‑day tournament each August honouring the actor’s long association with the village
• September International Member‑Guest – 10‑12 September (open to members of partner clubs worldwide)

While the remote location precludes major championship hosting, these events keep the course vibrant and attract golf enthusiasts from across Ireland and abroad.

Nearby Attractions

While you’re in Waterville, the Ring of Kerry offers a 179 km scenic drive through mountains, coastal cliffs and charming villages. The village itself boasts a bronze statue of Charlie Chaplin, who holidayed here for over a decade, and the annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival each August. Anglers will appreciate the proximity to Lough Currane, and hikers can explore the ancient four‑stone alignment at Eightercua, just 1.5 km south‑south‑east of the town.

A short drive north brings you to the famed links at Ballybunion, another world‑class coastal course worth a swing if you have time.

Practical Information

Address: Murreagh, Waterville, Co. Kerry, Ireland Phone: +353 66 947 4102 Website: watervillegolflinks.ie Opening hours: Open daily (tee times by reservation). The course operates year‑round, weather permitting.

Green Fees & Services

• Green‑fee range: €60 – €150 (varies by season, tee colour and residency status). Junior and senior discounts apply.
• Cart/buggy hire: Electric carts and traditional buggies available for a fee.
• Caddies: Professional caddies on‑site for hire.
• Club rental: Full set of clubs available for visitors.

Booking & Access

Tee‑times are best secured well in advance, especially during the summer months when the Ring of Kerry draws golf pilgrimages. The club accepts major credit cards and offers online booking via its website. Parking is available on‑site free of charge for players and guests.

Accessibility

The clubhouse and main facilities are wheelchair‑accessible, with level access to the restaurant and bar. The practice range and most of the course are designed for able‑bodied golfers; however, the natural dunes can present challenges for mobility‑restricted visitors.

Getting There

Waterville lies on the N70 Ring of Kerry route, approximately 30 km west of Killarney. The nearest airports are Kerry Airport (KIR) and Shannon Airport (SNN); both provide car‑rental services with ample space for golf bags. Public transport options are limited, so a private hire or self‑drive is recommended.

Visitor Tips

• Weather – The Atlantic can bring strong winds; early morning rounds often offer calmer conditions.
• Visitor play – Waterville is a private club but welcomes limited visitor play. Booking a year ahead is advisable for peak season.
• Stargazing – After a late round, step outside the clubhouse to enjoy the dark‑sky reserve’s spectacular night sky.