Pros 
Cons A Tropical Escape with a Bit of Wear and Tear
Parrot Island miniature golf, nestled within the Margaritaville resort in Montgomery, Texas, aims for a laid-back, tropical vibe – and largely succeeds in creating a pleasant atmosphere. The course itself is consistently described as fun, appealing particularly to families. Many visitors pairing a stay at the resort with a round of golf have noted the overall excellent experience at Margaritaville enhanced their enjoyment of the course. However, not everything is sunshine and palm trees. A recurring theme in reviews points to the need for some upkeep; several guests mentioned that the course could benefit from maintenance and repairs. While structurally sound, some elements appear a little tired, detracting slightly from the immersive experience.
Here's a quick breakdown of frequently mentioned pros and cons:
| Feature | Positive Feedback | Areas for Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Fun, tropical, relaxing | - |
| Difficulty | Good for all ages | - |
| Condition | Mostly good | Needs maintenance/repairs |
| Kid-Friendly | Highly rated | - |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible | - |
It's worth noting the positive impact of the wider Margaritaville experience. Comments about friendly staff – particularly bartender Emily at License To Chill and the Einstein Ice Cream Shop employee – frequently pop up, slightly boosting perception of the whole area including the mini golf.
Accessibility and Convenient Amenities
Parrot Island clearly prioritizes inclusivity, offering both wheelchair accessible entrance and parking. This is a significant plus for families and individuals with mobility concerns. Beyond accessibility, the course isn't overly elaborate in its amenities, but covers the basics well. Restrooms are available on-site, which is a huge convenience, especially with children.
Payment options are also modern and flexible: credit and debit cards are readily accepted. Small details like this streamline the experience and eliminate potential hassles. The fact that it’s part of a larger resort means additional facilities – restaurants, shops, and other entertainment options – are easily within reach, expanding the possibilities for a full day (or weekend!) of fun. This gives Parrot Island a leg up compared to standalone mini golf businesses.
- Accessibility: Excellent. Easily accommodating for those with mobility needs.
- Restrooms: Available and conveniently located.
- Payment: Accepts both credit and debit cards.
- Resort Integration: Access to Margaritaville’s wider amenities.
Unexpected Hurdles: Hours and Resort Access
A significant point of frustration for some visitors revolves around the course's operating hours and its location within the Margaritaville resort. Several reviews detail a disappointing drive – sometimes over 40 minutes – only to find the mini golf closed. This appears to stem from the course being treated as a primarily guest-only amenity, rather than a publicly accessible attraction.
It’s essential to confirm operating hours before planning a visit, especially if you are not staying at the resort. Reliance on online searches alone can lead to inaccurate information. Directly contacting the resort to inquire about availability is highly recommended. This lack of clear, readily available information regarding access for non-resort guests is a common complaint. It's frustrating for families planning a day trip to travel a considerable distance only to be turned away.
"We took a 40 minute drive all the way here to know that it’s a resort hotel and the mini golf is closed." - A common sentiment echoed by multiple reviewers.
This issue could easily be mitigated with better signage, online communication, or a dedicated booking system.
Beyond the Putter: A Resort Highlight, But Not Perfect
Despite the occasional maintenance concerns and potential access issues, Parrot Island remains a popular attraction, particularly amongst families vacationing at Margaritaville. The resort's overall positive atmosphere – boosted by exceptional staff like Rec Director Alexandra who juggles multiple roles – contributes to a generally enjoyable experience.
The course itself is described as a “fun little” challenge, simple enough for kids but still engaging for adults. While it may not be the most elaborate or meticulously maintained miniature golf course in Texas, the combination of a pleasant setting, convenient amenities, and the wider Margaritaville experience creates a worthwhile outing. It's a solid option for an afternoon of family fun, so long as visitors are aware of the potential for closure and the need to verify operating hours beforehand. It’s a course that offers a balance of casual enjoyment and accessibility, blending well within the overall Margaritaville resort experience.