While perhaps not commanding the same widespread acclaim as Ireland’s most renowned golf courses, The Island in Dublin unquestionably merits consideration among the Republic’s elite links.
Established in 1890, The Island holds the distinction of being one of Ireland’s oldest links courses. Its unique history includes a period when it was literally situated on an island, before evolving into the championship-calibre layout it is today. Despite its convenient location just outside Dublin, The Island has often been overlooked, overshadowed by golfing giants such as Portmarnock or Royal Portrush.
Its standing within the Irish golf scene was recently a topic of discussion on the NCG Top 100s Podcast. Podcast regular Dan Murphy admitted his bewilderment as to why The Island doesn’t hold the same esteem in Irish golf society as its more famous counterparts. He noted its somewhat ‘rural’ or ‘backwater’ perception, preventing it from being widely regarded among the absolute top echelon. However, Murphy firmly asserted, “I’m here to tell you that it absolutely is in that category, as far as I’m concerned.”
Distinct from the celebrated links on Ireland’s west coast, The Island is nestled in suburban Dublin, a characteristic that host Tom Irwin sees as a significant part of its allure. Irwin expressed his surprise, questioning why this exceptional course isn’t more widely celebrated. He suggested its charm might stem from its less-trodden path, noting it lacks a ‘royal moniker’ and doesn’t feature prominently on American tourist trails. Unlike the romanticized image of west coast Ireland with its colourful pubs and traditional music, The Island represents a different, suburban facet of the country.
This sense of discovery is precisely what makes it so appealing. Visitors feel as though they’ve unearthed a hidden treasure. What awaits them is an astonishing landscape of dunes, embodying the finest Irish links traditions. Playing amidst these enormous natural formations, particularly on the spectacularly dramatic first and eighteenth holes, is an unforgettable experience.
“At its best, I think it is as good as anywhere,” Irwin commented. He recounted two memorable visits: one during a fierce storm where the desire to play never wavered due to the course’s intrinsic quality, and another on a stunning evening ahead of last year’s Open. In both instances, the sheer brilliance of the course made them reluctant to leave, affirming its status as a truly sensational golf destination.
