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Windmills and Loop-the-Loops! Visit Myrtle Beach, the Miniature Golf Capital of the World

Written by Chris Caggiano

Many people are familiar with Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It’s a golfing Mecca for enthusiasts of all levels, attracting golfers from around the world. With over 100 golf courses, it offers an array of challenging designs set against picturesque coastal backdrops.

Myrtle Beach is also a fantastic resort town in general. The pristine, sun-kissed beaches are ideal for relaxation and watersports. The lively boardwalk boasts amusement parks, entertainment, and world-class shopping. The varied dining options cater to all tastes, and a vibrant nightlife scene keeps the town buzzing after dark.

But one thing in particular that makes Myrtle Beach distinctive is, believe it or not, miniature golf. With a staggering array of over 50 themed mini golf courses, from pirate adventures to jungle escapades, Myrtle Beach offers mini-golf enthusiasts an unparalleled experience. In fact, Myrtle Beach is the self-proclaimed “Miniature Golf Capital of the World,” with more mini golf courses per square mile than any other city. The courses range from simple and family-friendly to extravagant themed courses with waterfalls, caves, and other special effects.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The first mini golf course in Myrtle Beach was built in 1929, and the popularity of the game grew rapidly in the following decades. In the 1950s, a man named James “Poddy” Bryan began designing and building elaborate, themed mini golf courses. His courses were so popular that they helped to solidify Myrtle Beach’s reputation as the go-to place for all things mini golf.

Here’s our tour of some of the best miniature golf that Myrtle Beach has to offer.

Runaway Bay Mini Golf

Runaway Bay offers a delightful escape to the tropics right in the heart of Myrtle Beach. This 18-hole miniature golf course transports visitors to a Caribbean island paradise, complete with lush greenery and soothing water features. While it maintains a theme of island adventure, Runaway Bay Mini Golf places a strong emphasis on the classic mini golf experience. The course is designed with challenging holes that cater to both casual players and avid golf enthusiasts. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxed and enjoyable round of mini golf with friends and family, all set against a backdrop of tropical splendor.

Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf

Set sail for high-seas excitement at Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf, a pirate-themed course that promises swashbuckling fun for the whole family. An imposing pirate ship anchors the course, surrounded by treacherous waters and hidden coves. Explore the depths of a skull cave and delight in the soothing sound of a cascading waterfall as you navigate your way through this pirate’s paradise.

Cancun Lagoon Mini Golf

Cancun Lagoon offers an immersive miniature golf experience. This course combines the excitement of mini-golf with a captivating tropical paradise theme. With lush landscaping, cascading waterfalls, and meandering lagoons, it transports visitors to an exotic getaway. The course features multiple routes and challenges, providing entertainment for both beginners and seasoned mini golfers. Whether you’re navigating through caves or putting under the waterfall, Cancun Lagoon Mini Golf promises a memorable and visually stunning golfing adventure in the heart of Myrtle Beach.

Mayday Mini Golf

Mayday offers an exhilarating and unique miniature golf experience that’s perfect for both families and thrill-seekers alike. This 18-hole course features an aviation-themed setting with life-sized aircraft, control towers, and challenging holes that take you on a flight through miniature runways and obstacles. What sets Mayday Mini Golf apart is its incorporation of the “Mayday Mountain” – a towering volcano that erupts with fire and steam, adding an adrenaline rush to your putting adventure. With its attention to detail and exciting atmosphere, Mayday Mini Golf provides an unforgettable golfing journey that combines aviation wonder with the fun of mini-golf in the heart of Myrtle Beach.

Black Pearl Mini Golf

Black Pearl Mini Golf offers a swashbuckling adventure for mini-golf enthusiasts. This 18-hole pirate-themed course immerses visitors in a captivating world of high-seas escapades. As you putt your way through the course, you’ll encounter a life-sized pirate ship, treacherous waters, and a mysterious cave filled with hidden surprises. The attention to detail is impeccable, with cannons, anchors, and other nautical elements creating an authentic pirate atmosphere. What makes Black Pearl Mini Golf distinctive is its interactive elements, including water features and animatronics, making each hole a memorable challenge. It’s a thrilling and family-friendly golfing experience that adds a touch of pirate flair to Myrtle Beach’s mini-golf scene.

Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Goff*

Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Goff* stands as an iconic and eccentric miniature golf destination in Myrtle Beach. This 36-hole course is renowned for its surreal blend of fantasy and coastal charm. The towering structures, like the imposing Mount Atlanticus and a colossal Minotaur statue, create a mythical atmosphere. With numerous levels, tunnels, and hidden pathways, this course challenges even the most seasoned mini-golfers. The scenic ocean views add an extra layer of allure to the experience, making it a captivating adventure for all ages. Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Goff is a must-visit for those seeking a whimsical and challenging mini-golf journey amidst the seaside allure of Myrtle Beach.

*(This is not a typo. That’s how it’s spelled in the title of the course and on the website)

These mini golf ranges are sure to provide a fun experience for the whole family. So if you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly activity in South Carolina, be sure to check out one of the many great mini golf courses. You won’t be disappointed.

Did we leave off your favorite Myrtle Beach miniature golf course? Tell us about it in the comments below! 

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