Photo: Wikimedia CommonsWaterville Golf Links
Waterville, Co. Kerry · Designed by Eddie Hackett · Est. 1889
Waterville is the great underappreciated links of Kerry. Spectacular and far less crowded than it deserves to be, it sits on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic and Ballinskelligs Bay on the Ring of Kerry. Payne Stewart accepted the honorary captaincy in 1999 — he was killed in a plane crash that October, and the club has honoured his memory ever since. Tranquillity, a long par 5 that runs alongside the Atlantic, is one of the most celebrated holes on the course. Stay at the Butler Arms in the village. Book direct with the club.
Highlights
- Payne Stewart memorial connection
- Tranquillity — famous par 5
- Ring of Kerry setting
Visitor Information
Getting There
Common questions
Is Waterville Golf Links worth the journey to remote Kerry?
Yes, without qualification. Waterville sits on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic and Ballinskelligs Bay on the Ring of Kerry — a location that produces extraordinary light and weather. Payne Stewart accepted the honorary captaincy in 1999 — he died in a plane crash that October, and the club has honoured his memory ever since. It is less crowded than Ballybunion or Lahinch, and that relative quiet is itself a reason to go.
What is the famous Tranquillity hole at Waterville?
Tranquillity is a long par five that runs alongside the Atlantic — considered one of the most beautiful holes on the course. It plays downwind in one direction and into the prevailing wind in the other. The view back towards the dunes and the sea from this hole is the image most golfers take away from Waterville.
How do I book Waterville and how far in advance?
Book directly through the Waterville Golf Links website. One to two months ahead is often sufficient outside peak summer. June and July are busiest. The club does not use GolfNow.
What should I do beyond golf in Waterville?
The Skellig Ring road west of the village is spectacular. The Skelligs boat trips leave from Portmagee, about twenty minutes south, and should be booked separately well in advance. The Butler Arms hotel in the village has been feeding golfers for generations.
Where to Stay
Book directly with the club — no agent, no waiting
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Course Facts
Destination guide
Golf in Kerry
Courses, hotels, restaurants and things to do beyond the fairways.
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