Pros 
Cons Glowing Reviews & Dimly Lit Disappointments: First Impressions of Pirate Black Light Golf
Pirate Black Light Golf in Fayetteville, North Carolina, promises a vibrant, indoor minigolf experience, and for many, it delivers a dose of fun. The 3.9 rating reflects a fairly mixed bag of opinions, leaning towards enjoyable but with significant caveats. Players consistently mention the novelty of the black light aesthetic, describing it as “cool” and a welcome escape, particularly on a hot day. Several reviewers appreciate that the course is "small but cute" and highlight the added bonus of an arcade. However, the core issue that bubbles to the surface repeatedly revolves around the number of holes and discrepancies between advertised information and actual offerings. It’s clear that what you expect from Pirate Black Light Golf can heavily influence your overall satisfaction.
Here's a breakdown of commonly praised elements:
- The Black Light Experience: The glowing environment is a definite draw, offering a unique and visually engaging spin on the classic minigolf format.
- Arcade Accessibility: The presence of an arcade adds another layer of entertainment, making it a potential option for families or groups seeking more than just golf.
- Accessibility Features: The course is notably wheelchair accessible, with accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms – a hugely positive point for those with mobility concerns.
- Kid-Friendly: Many reviewers state it’s "good for kids," presenting it as a viable option for family entertainment.
The Nine-Hole Controversy: A Matter of Misleading Advertising?
The biggest point of contention surrounding Pirate Black Light Golf is the fact that it currently only offers nine holes of golf, despite advertising potentially implying an 18-hole experience. Some patrons were told they could play the nine holes twice to reach 18; others were outright denied a second round. This inconsistency and perceived false advertising is a major source of frustration for visitors.
Here’s how the issue breaks down:
“Great course but only had nine holes of golf. 18 holes at both courses was advertised. When asked we were told we were only allowed to play one time which is 9 holes… Will go to other places that have 18 holes for your money.”
“Says it doesn't close till 9:00pm for golf. We arrived at 7:20 and we were not allowed to golf as the person said they are closing. No where on their site does it say that the golf part closes at 7:20. Waste of an hour drive and my time. Fix you website to be more accurate and don't falsely advertise incorrect times.”
This highlights a clear need for transparency from Pirate Black Light Golf. A simple sign at the entrance clarifying the nine-hole format could prevent significant disappointment. The discrepancy between stated closing times and actual golfing availability further compounds the problem, leading to wasted trips and frustrated customers.
Course Design & Gameplay: Room for Improvement
Beyond the hole count, feedback regarding the quality of the course design is mixed. While the black light decor is appreciated, the actual gameplay appears to be somewhat lacking. Several reviewers describe the holes as “poorly designed” and “generic,” lacking the creative challenges and intricate obstacles commonly found in well-regarded minigolf courses.
Key criticisms include:
- Limited Space: A recurring complaint is the lack of space between holes, creating a cramped and potentially frustrating experience.
- Tee Placement Issues: The placement of tees within doorways is reported to be awkward, making it difficult to achieve a proper alignment for a shot. As one reviewer put it, some tees are "hard to get lined up for a shot."
- Pace of Play: For some, the course is too quick. A group of six completed the nine holes in less than ten minutes, suggesting a lack of substantial challenge or engagement.
The overall sense is that while the black light adds a visual appeal, the course itself doesn't quite live up to its potential. It appears fun, but simple, and may not hold the attention of more experienced or discerning minigolf enthusiasts.
The Human Element: Interactions & Etiquette on the Green
Even a brightly lit (or black-lit) experience can be dimmed by negative social interactions. One review details a frustrating encounter with a group of players who repeatedly rushed and disrupted the pace of play, essentially teeing off before others had finished. While this is ultimately a matter of golf etiquette and not directly the fault of Pirate Black Light Golf, the reviewer rightfully points out the impact of such behavior on their experience.
This situation underscores the importance of maintaining a respectful and considerate atmosphere on the course. Though the business isn’t directly responsible for customer behavior, consideration should be given what to do if a situation like this is brought to their attention.
This anecdote serves as a reminder that the experience at Pirate Black Light Golf, like any public venue, can be significantly influenced by the people around you. The reviewer’s witty suggestion – “If someone says play through, PLAY THROUGH!” – encapsulates the frustration and offers a humorous perspective on the importance of common courtesy.