White Sands Hotel

The White Sands has 58 modern guest rooms, set up with the essentials you want on a golf break rather than lots of unnecessary frills. Rooms are available as doubles, twins and family options, which works well for societies and mixed groups. If you're travelling with a few mates, it's worth flagging your preferred room split early and the hotel can usually help you match up configurations.

In-room you can expect comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, tea and coffee facilities and Wi-Fi. After a long day out on the links, that no-fuss, sleep-well feel matters more than fancy extras. The rooms are modern, well maintained and designed to give you a proper night's rest before the next round.

Where White Sands really works is for golf groups who want an easy, unfussy base. The hotel's used to early starts and late finishes, so ask about breakfast times around your tee sheet. If you're bringing your own clubs, it's worth checking on storage options and the best approach for loading up the car each morning. The team know the local courses well and can often help with directions, traffic tips and what to expect on the day.

The restaurant is the standout feature. Paul Philips' modern European cooking draws on local ingredients and seasonal produce, with menus that change regularly to reflect what's available. Expect well-executed dishes that show genuine skill and attention to detail, whether you're having a quick breakfast before an early tee time or settling in for a proper dinner after your round. He was named Ireland's Your Chef of the Year in 2006, which tells you plenty about what to expect on your plate.

There's also a residents' bar where you can unwind with a pint or a whiskey, and there's ample parking if you're driving between courses. The coastal setting means you're never far from a walk along the beach if you need to stretch your legs between rounds, and the fresh sea air is a welcome bonus after spending time in the city.

For golfers planning a Dublin-based trip, the White Sands delivers exactly what you need: comfortable rooms, excellent food and a location that puts you within easy reach of the courses you've come to play. It's not trying to be a luxury resort, it's simply a well-run hotel that understands golfers and does the job properly.