For most people, a first trip to Ireland probably should include the Southwest.
I started there for the first ten days or so of a five week trip. The Southwest has well known courses and a couple of lesser known courses with character and charm.
On my first trip, the extended duration allowed me to play courses out in the West and Northwest, Northern Ireland, and around Dublin.
I have now been back nine additional times and have spent over six months playing golf in Ireland. I am partial to County Donegal due to the remoteness of the area.
There has been a lot of discussion here about individual courses and trips people have done.
I have gone mostly in May and June and been in Ireland during the U.S. Open a few times now. in late May and June, the influx of tourism is starting but not overwhelming.
I also like September and have done two trips a year the past three years, one in late spring/early summer and one in late summer/early fall.
From San Diego, you can fly Delta through JFK or fly British Air which goes through Heathrow. I have been separated from checked luggage on three of four flights through Heathrow. The Heathrow connection is a hassle with long lines. You are required to go through immigration there and then go through security to get on your flight. You don't actually enter the UK and you still have to go through immigration in Ireland.
One benefit of flying Delta (or American) is that when you fly from Dublin, you go through the immigration entry process in Dublin so you don't have to do it at JFK (or O'Hare in the case last year when I flew American).
Most people take on too much long distance driving. I agree with Tony.
Charles Lund
Tony,
Thanks for the reply. I think we are shooting for S/W coast and try and hit most of the most well known venues. Sounds like it doable.