What are the Rules of Miniature Golf?

Mini golf, also known as “mini golf”, “mini-putt” or “putt-putt golf”, is often regarded as the crazy golf spin-off. Players take it seriously as a sport when they’re using it as a way to practice the short game. Unlike other forms of golf, you just need to choose a mini golf course and show up to play. The only required equipment is a putter and a golf ball, which are available at the course. Each mini golf course has its variations, so every hole and field is unique. Obstacles on the course must be fixed for play and can be anything from rocks to a windmill to trees to anything else.

What is Miniature Golf?

Mini golf courses feature intricately designed 18-marked holes where most players compete solo or in groups of two to four. To get the score for each hole, add up the total strokes of the players on the team. Teams must finish all 18 holes. There's a 6-shot limit per hole, so if a player misses their 4th shot, they can pick up their ball and score 5 (a team's worst possible score per hole is 10). Players aim to hit their golf ball from the tee area into each hole using putters. Finishing every hole in sequence and tapping the ball with precision helps in scoring better.

Rules for Miniature Golf

Learn how to play miniature golf and enjoy this fun sport with your friends! While it is simple enough, knowing these rules will help along the way.

1. Teeing Off

Pick your club and ball, go to the 1st hole, and set the ball on the tee area on your turn. Take a gentle swing. Move aside and stay safe. Play at your own risk and avoid getting hit or hitting others.

2. Small Groups Are Important

Like regular golf, groups of up to four players work best. Bigger groups can split up, but should stay close as they play on the course.

3. Be Mindful of Your Stance

Start by keeping the putter perpendicular to the hole. This might be tough on a tricky course, but generally, this is where you always want to start. Pick one that feels good in your hand and is tall enough that the top hits you above the belt. Line the ball up with the inside of the forward foot. For right-hand putting, the left foot should be forward, and vice versa.

4. Plan Before Putting

Take the time to figure out what kind of hole you’re about to play. Is it a straight shot to the hole, or do you have a windmill between you and your target? Not every hole is going to require the same strategy, so take the time to think it through before swinging. Remember, aiming straight isn’t always the best idea. Most mini golf courses are designed to take at least two strokes, so plan ahead and look for the best way to get the ball from point A to point B.

5. Hit the Ball Where It Lands

Play the ball from its resting spot if it stops in a playable position. But if an obstacle traps it or it goes out of bounds, most courses allow the use of a one-club-length relief rule. This allows for moving the ball while taking a penalty stroke. Some courses have their own rules that differ so always ask before starting to play.

6. Stay Within Stroke Limits

Many mini golf fields set a top number of shots for each hole, six or seven. To go over this limit, write down the highest score and go to the next hole. This rule keeps the game moving so people don't get stuck on one hard hole for too long. If the shot is difficult, take the max score and clear your head for the next challenge.

7. Add Up Every Stroke

Every time you tap the ball with a putter in mini golf, it adds up as a stroke. The aim is to finish the hole with as few hits as possible. Even if you hit the ball twice in one swing by mistake, it still goes down as two strokes on the scorecard. When the ball goes out of bounds, take a penalty shot before putting it back at the nearest spot to play from. Keeping the score accurate helps keep the game fair for everyone.

8. Keep Score

Write down the strokes for each hole on the given scorecard. If you rank in the top 10, put your score on the magnetic leader board. The player with the lowest total score wins. Players might settle ties with a sudden-death play-off.

9. Keep Those Putters Down!

Always keep putter heads below the knees to stay safe. Don't hit people, animals, plants, or anything else with the putter just your golf ball.

10. Respect the Course

Don't damage obstacles or the course itself. Be careful with your putter and pay attention to the surroundings.

11. Don't Give Up!

Mini golf can trick you; it's harder than it looks. Practice and patience matter more than skill to win. Stay patient no matter what's going on!

Know More: What is a Stroke Play in Golf?

Miniature Golf Tips

These mini golf tips will help improve the game and get closer to winning:

• Take Your Time: Don’t rush; mistakes happen. Take a moment to think about the shot and picture the way to the hole. 

• Use the Walls: Use the course to your advantage. Navigate obstacles or get the ball closer to the hole by bouncing it off the walls.

• Try Different Angles and Putting Styles: Mini golf is all about experimentation. To get around tricky obstacles, try putting at different speeds, angles, and even bank shots.

• Master the Grip: Hold the putter comfortably and firmly. Your grip should be firm but relaxed to have control and accuracy.

• Control Force: Mini golf isn’t about power but precision. A soft touch can get more accurate and controlled shots.

• Watch Others: Watch how other golfers play each hole. Try to pick up some good tips or strategies to improve the game.

Get to Know: How To Improve Golf Swing—Easy Tips To Improve At Golf

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Holes Are In Miniature Golf?

A standard mini golf course has 18 holes, just like traditional golf. But not all fields follow the same format. Many casual or family-oriented locations have 9-hole courses for quick fun. At entertainment centres, courses have 9, 18, or even 27 holes depending on time, interest, or ticket options.

How Much Does Miniature Golf Cost?

In the UK and the US, it costs around $8 to $15 per person for a round of mini golf. Playing indoors with fancy furnishings or VR can cost between $18 and $25. In the UK, the theme venues like those sweet glow-in-the-dark adventure parks in London usually cost from £10 to £20, while the classic outdoor courses are a bit lower. A few miniature golf facilities offer group rates, family passes, or package deals that also include arcade games.

How Long Does It Take To Play Miniature Golf?

Most mini golf courses are either 9-hole or 18-hole. Typically, a 9-hole course should be played in 30 to 45 minutes and an 18-hole course in 60 to 90 minutes. The more people are play, the longer the game will be. If only 2 golfers are playing 18 holes, it will take around 60 to 70 minutes. If 4 players are playing an 18-hole course, the estimated time will be between 80 and 90 minutes. If 6 individuals are playing 18 holes, it will generally take about 100 to 120 minutes or sometimes even more.

Where Can I Play Miniature Golf?

Standard options in the UK are Mr. Mulligan’s Adventure Golf, Junkyard Golf Club, and Swingers. In the USA, Glowgolf and Puttshack, Monster Mini Golf, and Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf are common. Generally, miniature golf locations can be found in amusement parks, family entertainment areas, or standalone adventure golf spots.