Irvine sits on the North Ayrshire coast with one of the longest beach parks in the region. The beach itself is wide and family-friendly, with parkland set back from the dunes and consistently good water quality — beginner surf on small days, easy walking and swimming on calm ones.
The picks below cover what we have in Irvine. The wider North Ayrshire coast stretches up toward Saltcoats and Ardrossan if you're looking for stronger surf or kite spots.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Classic 1897 members' links on a narrow strip of duneland between the railway and the Firth of Clyde shore, north of Troon. Visitor rounds are pre-bookable on set days.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Modern championship links at Gailes designed by Kyle Phillips (opened 2003), host of the men's Scottish Open 2015-2017, the 2022 Scottish Open and the Women's Scottish Open. Clubhouse and on-site lodge accommodation with year-round visitor tee times.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Championship links on the Gailes coast south of Irvine, owned and managed by Glasgow Golf Club and opened in 1892 to a Willie Park Jnr design. Visitors are bookable year-round with seasonal green fees.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Municipal 18-hole parkland course (par 70, 5,960 yards, est. 1907) at Kidsneuk on the north edge of Irvine, operated by KA Leisure with pay-as-you-play tee times. A 'Quick Six' express option caters for beginners.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Free 400-hectare country park on the former Eglinton Castle estate between Irvine and Kilwinning (KA12 8TA), with the castle ruins, walking and cycling routes, play and picnic areas, fishing and a ranger service. Managed by North Ayrshire Council.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Scotland's national maritime collection housed in the Victorian Linthouse building at 6 Gottries Road, Irvine harbourside (KA12 8QE), with historic vessels, machinery and interactive exhibits. Up to three children go free with each paying adult.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Town-centre leisure hub on Irvine High Street operated by KA Leisure, with a six-lane 25 m pool, teaching pool, six-court sports hall, gym, class studios and cafe. Fully accessible throughout and home to North Ayrshire Amateur Swimming Club.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Long beach with parkland, beginner surf on small days, and family-friendly facilities.
Irvine, North Ayrshire
Community club at Thornhouse Avenue with three courts resurfaced in astroturf in 2024, plus two smaller pickleball-sized courts that are free to play (GBP 1 for floodlights). Court booking is online via ClubSpark, with gate access codes supplied on booking.