Pros 
Cons A Pirate’s Life (and Its Discontents) at Fish Cove
Fish Cove Adventure Golf, located at 4949 Tamiami Trl in Port Charlotte, FL, presents a compelling, if increasingly conflicted, picture. Boasting a 4.0 rating, it clearly holds a place in the hearts of many, particularly families seeking a local activity. The course is consistently praised for its ambitious pirate theme, complete with waterfalls and a “beach” area, and, importantly, its stunning views over the bay – especially enchanting at sunset. Many longtime patrons share heartwarming memories of repeat visits, highlighting its once-reliable status as a family favorite.
However, recent reviews paint a troubling picture of decline. While the initial aesthetic promises a tropical paradise, reality falls short. Several visitors report a noticeable lack of maintenance. Expect to encounter broken water features filled with stagnant brown water, overgrown plants, and a generous scattering of leaves across many of the holes. Concerns about the course’s structural integrity are also prevalent; multiple players describe awkwardly tilted surfaces making skillful play nearly impossible. It seems that settling of the property has significantly impacted the playability, often resulting in balls resting against brick edges rather than a fair putting surface.
The Good, The Bad, and The Smelly
The experiences at Fish Cove appear to vary wildly, heavily influenced by timing and expectations. Here’s a breakdown of commonly reported aspects:
Positives:
- Scenic Views: The undisputed highlight. The bay view, particularly at dusk, is consistently mentioned as a major draw.
- Family-Friendly (Historically): It was once a highly recommended destination for families with children.
- Unique Theme: The pirate setting remains a talking point, even amidst the course’s deterioration.
- Decent Pricing: Several reviewers acknowledge the course is reasonably priced for a quick, local outing.
Negatives:
- Maintenance Issues: A recurring complaint. Broken features, debris, and overgrown vegetation are common.
- Course Condition: The uneven surfaces and constant tilting significantly impact gameplay. Players report “cheap” misses and undeserved hole-in-ones.
- Lack of Shade/Cooling: Despite website claims of plentiful misters and shade, many visitors found themselves exposed to the brutal Florida sun.
- Unpleasant Odors: A particularly alarming comment described the place as smelling like “hot road kill.”
- Staff Interactions: A disturbing pattern of negative interactions, with one customer recounting a frustrating experience with a free game reward and accusations of dishonesty.
| Feature | Positive Reports | Negative Reports |
|---|---|---|
| Course Condition | Minimal | Extensive |
| Maintenance | Few | Many |
| Staff | Some | Several |
| Views | Universal | None |
| Shade/Cooling | Website | Reality |
A Course on Its Last Legs?
Sadly, a significant thread running through recent reviews is the knowledge of Fish Cove’s impending closure. As of May 10, 2018, the putt putt was set to cease operations, a fact lamented by loyal customers. This awareness seems to contribute to a sense of apathy regarding maintenance.
“Really fun course on both sides. I have been coming here for years and had some great memories but this place is closing may 10, 2018 that date cannot come fast enough. The women that runs the place is very unpleasant…”
This sentiment is echoed by others who suggest the course has been allowed to decline without investment, and the owner's attitude reflects this. The combination of poor condition and reportedly unpleasant staff interactions contributes to a negative experience that no longer justifies a visit, even for those cherishing past memories.
What Remains of the Adventure?
For those considering Fish Cove Adventure Golf, be prepared for a mixed experience. If spectacular views are the primary objective, packing a sunset picnic could certainly deliver. However, those seeking a genuinely enjoyable and well-maintained putt putt experience may wish to look elsewhere, especially considering the reports of course condition and customer service issues.
Ultimately, it appears Fish Cove is a course living on borrowed time–a once-loved local fixture now facing the end of its run and struggling to maintain even basic standards during its final days. Its fate serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of continued investment and attentive customer care. A visit today is likely to be more about nostalgia and a scenic panorama than a fantastic round of miniature golf.