With its signature blend of relaxed professionalism, the Kelly family’s renowned beachside hotel continues to represent the very best of the Sunny South-East, welcoming countless regular visitors who return year after year.
The Kelly family’s deep-rooted history in hospitality, spanning three centuries, has endowed them with an unparalleled understanding of how to create memorable guest experiences.
A momentous chapter unfolded in 2014 when Laura Kelly, representing the fifth generation of the family, returned from completing her postgraduate education at the world-renowned Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne. She joined her father, Bill, and grandmother, Breda (who sadly passed in 2024), bringing fresh energy and expertise gained during her international experience. In 2025, Laura’s sister, Grace Kelly, also joined the management team, further strengthening the family’s leadership and ensuring the traditions of excellence and innovation continue to flourish.
The hotel’s culinary team has been further elevated with the arrival of Executive Chef Philip Brazil, who oversees all dining operations, bringing his wealth of experience to Kelly’s Resort Hotel. Michael Gaul, Head Chef of La Marine Bistro, continues to delight guests with his creative and refined dishes, while Chris Fullam, Head Chef of The Sea Rooms, has elevated this contemporary dining destination with his innovative menus and commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
The Kelly family's contributions to Irish hospitality remain extraordinary. Notably, Bill Kelly, alongside his daughter Laura, has been a staunch advocate for innovation and high standards during challenging times. A prime example of this vision is the creation of Kelly’s extensive kitchen gardens, which provide seasonal produce for their restaurants. The gardens include a nearby off-site farm, along with a formal walled garden and an accessible area near the car park for guests to explore.
During the pandemic recovery, the Kelly family launched The Sea Rooms in 2022. This stunning, design-led two-storey indoor/outdoor dining space with sea views and terraces has transformed the hotel’s dining landscape. With Chris Fullam at the helm, it offers guests a truly exceptional culinary experience in a contemporary setting.
Innovation extends beyond the hotel, with ventures like Kelly’s Café at Drinagh and its smaller sister café Kelly's Deli near the hotel proving highly successful. These endeavours exemplify the family’s determination to inspire confidence in rebuilding Ireland’s hospitality sector.
The hotel offers a wealth of experiences for all guests. Its standout features include an impressive art collection, exceptional leisure and pampering facilities (continually upgraded), and a variety of cosy lounging areas for relaxation. Dining options include two acclaimed restaurants, La Marine Bistro under Michael Gaul, and the award-winning Sea Rooms, led by Chris Fullam, which enhances the hotel’s already diverse culinary reputation.
Known as the “hotelier’s hotel” Kelly’s Resort attracts hospitality professionals seeking a retreat, a testament to its reputation. The absence of conferences ensures the hotel remains a haven for guests seeking relaxation. Whether individuals or families, guests can tailor their stay to their interests and come together to share stories over exceptional meals.
Summer remains the pinnacle of Kelly’s experience, with its crèche, playroom, and children’s playground delighting families. To maintain balance, a limit on the number of children ensures all guests enjoy their stay.
The hotel’s gardens are a summer highlight, but their significance extends year-round. Kelly’s kitchen gardens provide an abundance of seasonal produce for its kitchens, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients.
Accommodation options range from elegantly appointed sea-view rooms to the charming Leinster Lodge, a six-bedroom house across the road. Perfect for groups or families, it features nautical décor, pieces from the Kellys' art collection, and all the comforts of home with access to full hotel amenities.
Leisure facilities remain second to none, with two indoor swimming pools, the luxurious SeaSpa (with 11 treatment rooms, a seawater vitality pool, and more), indoor tennis courts, and even boules for Francophiles.
Nearby, activities abound, including golf, water sports, and scenic coastal walks. Special interest breaks and reduced rates are available outside the peak summer season, offering excellent value.
Kelly’s Resort Hotel is a year-round destination that perfectly balances heritage and innovation, making it the ultimate escape for anyone seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a home away from home in Ireland’s Sunny South-East.
