Pros 
Cons A Dive into the Details: What Makes The Fish Hole Special?
The Fish Hole at Lakewood Ranch, located at 10725 Rodeo Dr in Bradenton, Florida, isn't your average miniature golf course. With a solid 4.6-star rating, this establishment clearly resonates with visitors. What makes it stand out? Locals and tourists alike consistently praise the immersive atmosphere created by, you guessed it, fish! Multiple reviewers highlight the delightful experience of feeding the koi and turtles that inhabit the ponds surrounding the course.
Beyond the aquatic life, The Fish Hole excels in course design. Several patrons note the thoughtful balance between challenge and accessibility—holes that aren’t overly difficult but still provide a satisfying game, even for young children. In fact, many families specifically recommend it for little ones, noting its suitability for even a three-year-old to enjoy.
Here's a breakdown of what amenities you can expect:
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking are present, though the restroom facilities are currently limited to a portable bathroom style.
- Convenience: Accepts credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments. Free parking is available.
- Family-Friendly: Clearly geared towards families, with a 'Good for kids' designation.
- Comfort: The course features ample shade and strategically placed mist fans, a welcome relief on hot Florida days.
Playing the Course: Design and Difficulty
The course itself seems to be a major draw. Reviewers consistently describe the layout as “great,” “unique,” and “challenging,” and “well done.” It’s not a walk in the park, but it's also not frustratingly difficult. This strikes a sweet spot for a broad range of skill levels.
The lake views add an aesthetic element that elevates the experience. The inclusion of benches throughout the course allows for moments of rest and appreciation of the surroundings.
A bit of extra fun is available for purchase: The Fish Hole offers specialty golf balls, including Pokémon-themed options, alongside ice cream. One reviewer specifically remembered Pokémon balls were available on March 25th, 2024. It’s these small touches that contribute to the overall positive feeling.
Here’s what players say about the challenge:
“The course is a little challenging which is good. It’s not super easy.”
“Each hole was unique and easy enough for a three year old to navigate.”
Weighing the Costs & Convenience
While overwhelmingly positive, some feedback does address the price. Several reviewers mention The Fish Hole is "quite expensive," with the cost at $11.95 per person as of March 25, 2024. However, there's a potential cost-saving opportunity: one reviewer noted that if you pay for your children to play, a parent can play for free.
The location is also a plus, described as “near many restaurants,” providing convenience for combining a game of putt putt with a meal.
Here's a summary of operational details:
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11 AM – 9 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM – 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM – 9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM – 9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM – 9 PM |
You can reach The Fish Hole at (941) 306-5891 if you need to contact them. Their onsite services are readily available.
A Chorus of Happy Golfers
The sentiment surrounding The Fish Hole is resoundingly positive. Beyond the specifics of the course, a common thread emerges: the staff’s friendliness and attentiveness. Numerous reviews mention exceptional customer service, with staff members being described as “friendly," “attentive,” "helpful," and going above and beyond to address any questions or concerns.
Here's a sampling of customer testimonials:
- “My family and I…what a great experience it was! The staff were friendly and very attentive.”
- “The Fish Hole…couldn’t have been a more enjoyable stop…friendly staff!!”
- “Everyone was very friendly & helpful when we had any questions or concerns.”
These consistent mentions of positive staff interactions suggest a well-managed and customer-focused operation. Many visitors express a desire to return, solidifying The Fish Hole’s place as a beloved local and tourist destination. One reviewer specifically declared they would “absolutely be going again during our next vacation!”