Where to play mini golf at the Jersey Shore this summer

Lazing on the beach is a quintessential Jersey Shore summer activity, but sometimes, you want to mix up the fun. Enter mini golf.

New Jersey is home to some stunning full-size golf courses, with a golf culture that runs deep. But not all putting requires polos and tee times. Mini golf is laid-back, accessible, and a perfect way to earn bragging rights with friends and family while chasing those elusive holes-in-one.

Whether you’re putt-putting on a sunny day near the Atlantic or under neon lights at night, here are six of the best places to play a mini round down the Shore.

Smuggler’s Quay is the ultimate mini-golf experience. With two 18-hole, multilevel courses to choose from, players will discover mountain caves, waterfalls, and pirate treasures. The course also offers views of Breakwater Beach and the Seaside boardwalk. Plus, Smuggler’s Quay lights up at night, creating a glowing backdrop for your game.

🎟️ $12 per round for adults and kids ($10 for seniors); $17 for both courses ($14 for seniors)

📍800 Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights; 📞 732-793-6488; 🌐 casinopiernj.com/mini-golf; 🌊 Pirate themes, great views, and nighttime lights

Located in Atlantic City’s newest stretch of boardwalk, North Beach Mini Golf is a great BYOB option for playing a game with a view. Take in the Atlantic City skyline and the Absecon Lighthouse while playing the only craps table-themed hole in the world. Try your luck here before hitting the real tables later. Be sure to reserve a time online before you go.

🎟️ $14 for adults; $12 for children (per hour)

📍120 Euclid Ave., Atlantic City; 📞 609-246-7183; 🌐 northbeachminigolf.com;🍸 BYOB with boardwalk views and a casino twist

Congo Falls in Margate is a great family-friendly option located two blocks from the beach and from Lucy the Elephant. The first nine holes of the course are ADA-compliant, and golfers with special needs are welcome to play twice to get in a full round. This jungle-themed course features waterfalls, caves, and a rope bridge. Bonus: A fun, Plinko-style game at the end gives players a chance at a free round.

🎟️ $12 per person

📍9312 Ventnor Ave., Margate; 📞 609-823-1211; 🌐 facebook.com/congofallsadventuregolf; 🦍 Family fun near the beach with bonus free-round potential

Trade in waterfalls and palm trees for castles and dragons at this medieval-themed course under the neon glow of black lights. This Ocean City staple is one of the largest mini golf courses on the boardwalk. Think whimsical, fantasy, ren-faire without needing a time machine. Plus, it’s open seven days a week, rain or shine — a great pick for competitive families.

🎟️ $9 per person

📍1336 Boardwalk, Ocean City; 📞 609-938-0579; 🌐 oceancityminigolf.com; ⚔️ Indoor blacklight fantasy fun, open daily

» READ MORE: Best places to mini golf in Philly and down the Shore

Why settle for one theme when you can have three? Starlux Mini Golf in Wildwood offers 27 holes spread across boardwalk-retro (Wildwood trivia and memorabilia), beach (world’s largest artificial sand dune and castle), and ocean-themed (giant water fountains) courses, just steps from the boardwalk. This spot is dog-friendly, accessible, and has a food truck on site for snacks.

🎟️ One course: $14 for adults; $12 for kids (12 and under); $12 for seniors🎟️ Two courses: $19 for adults; $16 for kids🎟️ All three courses: $23 for adults; $20 for kids🎟️ Free for children 2 and under

📍4800 Ocean Ave., Wildwood; 📞 609-846-1048; 🌐 moreyspiers.com/explore/starlux-mini-golf; 🐾 Themed courses, dog-friendly setup, and food truck treats

Cape May boasts some of the most picturesque beaches down the Shore, but it’s worth taking a break from the sand for a round at Cape May Miniature Golf. A favorite for families, the course has a play-through cave and a 38-foot-long hole. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., groups of four or five can play for a flat rate of $35.

🎟️ $35 flat rate for groups of 4-5 (select times); $10 per person

📍315 Jackson St., Cape May; 📞 609-884-2222; 🌐 capemayminigolf.com; 📸 Scenic, low-key, and ideal for groups