Holey Moley Charlestown

If you're looking for something a bit different to do with the kids, Holey Moley in Charlestown Square is a fantastic option that definitely breaks the mould of the usual playground trip. It’s an indoor mini-golf course, but not like any you’ve seen before. The whole place is a vibrant, slightly bonkers explosion of pop culture, with 18 uniquely themed holes that will have you putting through everything from The Simpsons' living room to a giant Monopoly board. It's combined with a cocktail bar and serves food, so it really aims to be a full entertainment experience under one roof. Located inside Strike Bowling, it’s easy to find and adds to the overall lively, fun atmosphere.

Age Appropriateness

Holey Moley is great for a wide range of ages, but it probably hits the sweet spot for kids aged 6 and up who can appreciate the novelty holes and have the patience for a round of golf. While younger kids are welcome, and those under 13 must be accompanied by an adult, some of the holes can be a little tricky. The biggest thing for parents to know is the venue's minor policy. Under 18s are only permitted until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday. After these times, it becomes a strictly over-18s venue due to the bar. We went on a weekend morning and it was buzzing with families, which was a perfect vibe for us.

The Highlights (Pros)

The creativity of the courses is the absolute standout feature. Each hole is a photo opportunity and a conversation starter, from trying to putt through a spinning record to avoiding jail on a life-sized Monopoly board. The kids were completely captivated, and honestly, so were we. It’s not just golf; it’s an interactive adventure. The venue itself is clean and well-maintained. We also loved that there were food and drink options available right there. You can grab pizzas, burgers, and share plates, making it a one-stop shop for an outing. Plus, being located inside Charlestown Square means parking is straightforward and you can combine the trip with shopping or other activities.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Because it's so popular and has such a high-sensory environment with music and lights, it can get quite loud and crowded, especially during peak times like weekends and school holidays. If your child is sensitive to noise, it might be a little overwhelming. The space between some of the holes can feel a bit tight when it's busy, leading to some waiting around. It's also not the cheapest activity; a family of four can expect to pay around $50 for a 9-hole game. While they have food, it’s typical snack and bar-style fare, so don’t expect a gourmet meal.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Online: This is my number one tip. Fun times sell out fast, and while they sometimes have space for walk-ins, you really don't want to disappoint the kids by getting turned away. Booking ahead is essential, especially for weekends.
• Go Early: To avoid the biggest crowds and the transition to the over-18s bar crowd, aim for a morning or early afternoon session. The atmosphere is much more family-focused during the day.
• Parking: Holey Moley is inside Charlestown Square, which has plenty of parking. The first 3 hours are free, which should be more than enough time for a round of mini-golf. If you enter the car park after 5 p.m., parking is also free.
• Manage Expectations: A round of 9 holes typically takes about 25-40 minutes, but with excited kids, it might take a bit longer. Just go with the flow and don't rush them through the fun, interactive holes.
• Check for Deals: Keep an eye on their website for family deals or school holiday offers that can make the outing a bit more affordable.