In 2024, the National Golf Foundation estimated that 47.2 million Americans over the age of 6 play some form of golf — a record-breaking number, according to the organization, and one that matches the increasing demand for golf tourism.
While Scotland is known as the birthplace of golf, its neighbor to the west is beloved for the sport as well. Ireland is home to more than 400 golf clubs, including famed ones such as Royal Portrush and Ballybunion, and it boasts more than one-third of the world’s natural links courses, or courses set on scenic coastal terrain.
And while golfers of any level will find a place to putt in Ireland, the plethora of other activities golfers might enjoy once they step off the 18th green — castle visits, history tours and whiskey tastings among them — is what makes the island a truly worthwhile golf vacation destination.
But golf trips can be tricky to plan, as navigating unique logistics such as tee times and transport to and from remote courses isn’t always straightforward. That’s where a tour operator such as North and West Coast Links comes in. Travel advisors with golf-loving clients can reach out to this knowledgeable team for assistance with Ireland golf trips.
How North and West Coast Links Helps Travel Advisors
According to John Murray, a golf travel specialist for North and West Coast Links, the relationship between advisor and outfitter is a true collaboration — and working together equals a far better golf trip for a client.
“Advisors know their clients, and they understand their personalities, travel styles and expectations,” Murray said. “We know the destinations, the timing, the hidden gems and how to navigate the logistics of a multi-course, multiday golf trip.”
Donna Touchette, an Arizona-based travel advisor with Montecito Village Travel, agrees that a good partnership is key. She values the knowledge an outfitter like North and West Coast Links brings to the table, so she turns to them when creating itineraries.
“I need to hook up with an expert, whether it's for a golf trip or a garden tour,” she said. “I'm not afraid to go and connect, no matter where the destination is.”
Mount Falcon Estate has hosted a number of golf pros.
Credit: 2025 North and West Coast Links
To that end, North and West Coast Links has created multiday trips that advisors can book for clients or slot into larger Ireland itineraries. There’s the Chips & Fish trip, a six-night adventure with four days of golf and two days of fishing. On the Whiskey, Wedges and Wonders of Ireland’s North itinerary, six rounds of golf and whiskey tastings are included. These trips have been curated to highlight the best of what the country has to offer, according to Murray.
Golf history and Irish culture are prominent components of other itineraries from the operator, too. Overnight stays at Mount Falcon Estate — which has hosted golfing greats such as Tiger Woods, Mark O'Meara and Nick Faldo — are part of some trips. Dinner at Belleek Castle and a tour of its museum, which features medieval weapons and armor, is another itinerary possibility. At dinner here, clients might try a dish called the Drunken Bullock — steak served on a sword.
Irish hospitality is unmatched. It’s not just about great golf, it’s about who you meet along the way, from local publicans to witty caddies who feel like old friends by the ‘19th hole.’
“Irish hospitality is unmatched,” Murray said. “It’s not just about great golf, it’s about who you meet along the way, from local publicans to witty caddies who feel like old friends by the ‘19th hole.’”
Murray hopes travel advisors working with golfers of any ability will reach out for assistance from North and West Coast Links. The operator can curate the best course experiences, and the best of Irish landscapes, history and culture, too.
Clients on golf trips will stay at hotels such as Harvey's Point in Donegal.
Credit: 2025 Harvey's Point
“Golf in Ireland flows naturally with the culture,” he said. “Mornings on the course, afternoons exploring abbeys or villages, and evenings by the fire with a pint — it’s a lifestyle more than an itinerary.”
Golf Tourism Trends to Know
Murray has observed several trends in golf tourism in recent years, including multigenerational trips and women-only trips. Multigenerational golf vacations are special, and they require extra attention around accommodations and accessibility — another way in which tour operators can be useful. North and West Coast Links has a long history of working with hotels throughout Ireland, and their knowledge of what properties can comfortably fit a family that includes grandparents and grandkids is invaluable.
Carne Golf Links is considered by many to be one of Ireland's most spectacular golf courses.
Credit: 2025 North and West Coast LinksWomen-only trips are also trending upward, which is why North and West Coast Links is hosting their first annual Ladies Invitational in May 2026. The package includes five nights in a four-star accommodation with four rounds of golf, in addition to an Irish cooking school experience and sightseeing.
"We’re seeing a move away from large, generic tours toward more intimate, tailored experiences,” Murray said. “Golfers are looking for flexibility, comfort and insider access.”
