Whistling Straits – The Irish Course
Location: Kohler, Wisconsin
Architects: Pete & Alice Dye
Opened: 1998
Course Style: Links-inspired, inland with selected views of Lake Michigan
Ranking: Top 5 Public Courses in Wisconsin (Golf Magazine)
Resort: Destination Kohler
An Exceptional Links-Inspired Experience for All Golfers
Nestled along the western shore of Lake Michigan in Kohler, Wisconsin, Whistling Straits is one of America’s most iconic golf destinations. Known worldwide for hosting major championships including the Ryder Cup, the PGA Championship, and the U.S. Senior Open, Whistling Straits is revered for its championship-level golf and its authentic links-style design.
While the Straits Course often dominates the spotlight, its sister layout—the Irish Course—delivers a golf experience that is just as scenic, far more forgiving, and equally worthy of recognition. Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, the Irish Course provides a rugged yet playable challenge wrapped in natural beauty and refined course conditioning. For the average golfer seeking a world-class round without the high-pressure atmosphere or cost of tournament venues, the Irish Course stands out as a premier choice.
Links Style, Midwest Setting
The Irish Course mirrors the look and feel of a traditional seaside links course found in Ireland or Scotland—rolling terrain, deep sod-walled bunkers, vast green complexes, and high native grasses line the fairways. But unlike many American courses that borrow from links architecture, the Irish Course executes it with authenticity. The layout artfully uses the windswept topography just inland from Lake Michigan, flowing naturally with the land.
Although the course doesn’t hug the shoreline like the Straits Course, it shares the same dramatic dunes, windswept fescue, and rugged bunkering. On the back nine, golfers are treated to select views of Lake Michigan, and several inland water features come into play—offering their own unique drama. Seven holes incorporate lakes, with holes 2 and 17 standing out as visually compelling and tactically demanding. These water features are not only strategic—they are stunning, offering unexpected beauty in contrast to the rugged, links-style environment.
Visuals that Inspire
The Irish Course is visually striking from start to finish. You’ll be greeted by deep green fairways that stand out boldly against tawny dunes and natural sandy waste areas. The fescue, when swaying in the wind, gives the course a living, breathing quality. Each hole offers its own identity—there are few repetitive visuals or cookie-cutter designs here.
One highlight of the round is the rustic halfway house set into a hillside between holes 8 and 9. It’s a charming stop that adds a handcrafted touch to an already immersive golf experience. The Irish Course feels like it belongs on this land—it’s not manufactured, but discovered.
Playable and Enjoyable for All Skill Levels
For the average golfer, what truly sets the Irish Course apart is its playability. While Pete Dye is known for his strategic and visually intimidating designs, the Irish Course is more accessible and less penal than many of his other works. From the appropriate tee box, this course is enjoyable for players of all abilities.
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Fairway Width: Averaging 40 to 45 yards, the fairways are generous—almost double the width of the more demanding Straits Course. This gives players room to swing freely and reduces the penalty for minor misses.
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Multiple Tee Boxes: The Irish Course plays over 7,200 yards from the back, but with several tee options, golfers can find a setup that matches their comfort level.
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Carts Allowed: Unlike the Straits Course, where walking with a caddie is mandatory before twilight, the Irish Course permits carts and pull carts. This makes it a more relaxed round, especially for casual players or groups who prefer to ride.
Approach shots can still be demanding, particularly into elevated greens surrounded by steep bunkers and false fronts, but the greens are large and receptive. While they roll true and fast, the contours are fair and allow players to score if they putt well and leave themselves in good positions.
A Caddie-Enhanced Experience (Optional)
Although not required, the Irish Course provides caddies, and we highly recommend them to those wanting added insight into the layout’s subtle complexities. Pete Dye’s signature optical illusions and layered visual elements can be difficult to read at first glance. A caddie can help you choose smart lines, read tricky putts, and even suggest creative shot choices—especially helpful for average players navigating a top-tier layout.
World-Class Conditioning and Service
Just like its more famous neighbor, the Irish Course is maintained to championship standards. Fairways are immaculate, greens roll true and smooth, and the bunkers are consistently raked and well-kept. From the moment you check in at the clubhouse to your final putt on 18, the service level is elite.
You’ll feel welcomed, respected, and taken care of—no matter your skill level or scorecard. The entire golf operation is seamless, organized, and focused on delivering a memorable experience.
Part of Destination Kohler
The Irish Course is one of four premier courses at Destination Kohler, a resort steeped in craftsmanship, comfort, and class.
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The American Club: A Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond hotel, offering luxurious accommodations, a world-class spa, and award-winning dining.
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Blackwolf Run: Located just a few miles away, Blackwolf Run features two additional Pete Dye-designed courses—each with a more parkland feel, rounding out the resort’s variety.
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Village of Kohler: The entire area is a thoughtfully planned community offering charming shops, restaurants, museums, and nature trails—all nestled into the Wisconsin countryside.
Whether you’re on a golf trip with friends, a romantic getaway, or a solo golf pilgrimage, Destination Kohler offers everything you need on and off the course.
Irish Course vs. Straits Course: Why Choose the Irish?
While the Straits Course garners the spotlight and has hosted some of the biggest tournaments in golf, it also comes with a hefty price tag—over $700 including required caddie fees. The Irish Course delivers many of the same design features, aesthetics, and elite conditions at less than half the cost.
For most golfers, the Irish is the better choice if you’re looking for:
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Wider fairways and more forgiving layout
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Use of carts and greater flexibility
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Lower green fees
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Stunning views and championship-level conditioning
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A more relaxed yet still world-class experience
Conclusion: A Hidden Gem Worth the Journey
The Irish Course at Whistling Straits offers the rare blend of strategic design, coastal beauty, elite conditioning, and all-around accessibility. Whether you’re a mid-handicapper looking for a scenic challenge or a casual player aiming to enjoy a bucket-list destination without the intimidation factor, the Irish Course delivers.
It’s immersive, thoughtfully crafted, and backed by the hospitality and tradition of Destination Kohler. You’ll walk off the 18th green not just satisfied, but inspired—eager to return.
Explore other Midwest golf course profiles from Quintessential Golf Magazine.
