Holey Moley Surfers Paradise

Holey Moley in Surfers Paradise is an indoor mini-golf course with a serious twist. Forget windmills and castles; this place is a pop-culture explosion spread over two different nine-hole courses. Each hole is a fantastically creative and interactive experience, with themes ranging from classic TV shows like The Simpsons to nostalgic board games and movies. It's a vibrant, loud, and visually stimulating environment that combines a classic family activity with the energy of an arcade and the novelty of a theme park attraction. Beyond the golf, it functions as a bar and restaurant, making it a multi-purpose entertainment venue right in the heart of Surfers.

Age Appropriateness

Holey Moley is one of those rare places that genuinely appeals to a wide range of ages, but with a few key considerations. For kids aged five and up, it’s an absolute blast. The holes are clever and silly, and the interactive elements are easy enough for them to manage. Toddlers and preschoolers might find it a bit overstimulating and may not have the patience for the game itself. The venue becomes strictly 18+ after 8 p.m., so for family outings, you must plan your visit for the daytime. During school holidays and on weekends, it's packed with families, so your little ones will be in good company. Teenagers, in particular, will love the Instagram-worthy photo ops and the clever pop-culture references.

The Highlights (Pros)

The creativity of the courses is truly the star of the show. You’ll be putting through the living room of The Simpsons, navigating a giant Operation-style game, and even taking a seat on a replica Iron Throne from Game of Thrones. The sheer novelty factor is a huge win for kids and keeps them engaged from start to finish. The venue is incredibly clean and well-maintained, which is always a relief for parents. The staff are generally upbeat and helpful, adding to the positive atmosphere. The central Surfers Paradise location in the Circle on Cavill complex is also a major plus, as it’s easy to get to and surrounded by other amenities.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Because it's also a licensed bar, the vibe can feel less "kid-focused" than other family venues, especially as the afternoon wears on. The music is loud and the lighting is dim in many areas, which might be overwhelming for some younger children or those with sensory sensitivities. It can get extremely busy, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. This can lead to queues at each hole, which requires a bit of patience – something not all kids have in abundance! The cost can also add up quickly. You pay per person, per nine holes, and with drinks and snacks on top, it can become a pricey outing for a larger family.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Online in Advance: This is non-negotiable, especially for a weekend or holiday visit. It secures your spot and often allows you to get a better price than you would as a walk-in.
• Go Early: The best time for families is right when they open in the morning. You’ll beat the crowds, the bar scene is non-existent, and you’ll have a much more relaxed experience without feeling rushed at each hole.
• Parking: The easiest option is to park directly underneath the Circle on Cavill building. You can often get your parking ticket validated for a few hours of free parking if you spend a certain amount at Holey Moley or other retailers in the centre, so be sure to ask staff about this.
• Manage Expectations: Have a chat with the kids beforehand about taking turns and waiting, especially if you go at a peak time.
• Eat Before or After: While they offer food like pizza and burgers, you can save a bit of money by eating elsewhere in the precinct before or after your game.
• One Course is Enough: For younger kids, just booking for nine holes is plenty. Their attention spans might not last for the full 18, and it keeps the cost down.