Pirate’s Cove

Pirate’s Cove   728 Main Street, South Yarmouth, MA 02664

Pirate’s Cove is probably one of two of the most popular miniature golf courses in Cape Cod (the other being Skull Island). Whether that be because of their location or because of their towering structures or because of their wide commercial appeal, we can assure you that you will never be alone on the course. Even arriving at 9:30 (prior to a 10am opening), we were second in line, and by the time the opening bell rang, there were about 6 or 7 groups behind us. We decided to play just one course, and we are glad we did because as we left there were about 10 groups waiting before the 1st hole of the next course. So it’s definitely a popular destination.

There are 2 courses at the Pirate’s Cove in South Yarmouth, the Captain’s Course and Blackbeard’s Challenge. Both have par set at 40, and to be perfectly honest, are not all that different in terms of hole design and construction. Captain’s will take you around the front towards the highway, and Blackbeard’s will take you around towards the back. Like we mentioned, both have par set at 40, so they both have a good balance of some more interesting and challenging holes, but also a ton of ace opportunities for short par 2s.

The courses are always kept in impeccable conditions, and they do a tremendous job at immersing you in the environment. Fun pirate facts dot the course, and a massive sunken ship is eye-catching from the highway. Most of the barriers you are dealing with are rocks and water, but several straight on putts make it just a tad bit easier than we like.

We played Captain’s first, and were doing well until Hole 16, which looks deceivingly simple, but always causes a back-up because it’s a cup sitting on a hill that if you dont hit just right can be an easy 4 or 5. We finished there in a tie at 44 with three aces; not our best round, and we were a bit rushed with a group behind us. We came back the next day and played Blackbeard’s Challenge, and with a more relaxing pace we thought we really nailed it. Finishing up with four aces, our winner clocked a 36 but second place was still under par at 39. Overall, these courses aren’t too difficult (except for that Hole 16) and will provide tons of fun for people at all skill levels.

As expected with an establishment of this size, Pirate’s Cove is one of the most expensive in Cape Cod. Adults are $12.50/person and kids are $11.50/person, but a $1/off in any of the local guide books can at least get you some savings. To play 36 holes, you can take $2/off per-person, but that is still a hefty fee.

In summary, we will definitely be back at Pirate’s Cove, but so will a lot of other people, so just make sure you are okay with crowds!