Pros 
Cons A Hole-in-One for Fun: First Impressions & Atmosphere
Holey Moley Golf Club in San Francisco’s Mission District aims to elevate the miniature golf experience, and generally succeeds, landing a solid 4.5-star rating from its patrons. The venue certainly delivers a "party vibe," making it a popular choice for birthdays, dates, and group outings. Many reviewers highlight the enthusiastic welcome and excellent customer service, with one particularly memorable account of a birthday celebration receiving an upgrade to 18 holes and a free return pass thanks to the attentive staff and a kind waiter named Peter.
The space is notable for its two levels and abundance of “cool pop culture references,” providing ample photo opportunities. Beyond the golf itself, the club offers a full bar and restaurant, with games like Connect Four and Jenga available to enjoy while dining. The music, described as "amazing," contributes significantly to the lively and engaging atmosphere. However, some visitors experienced the venue as surprisingly empty, especially during off-peak hours, lessening the energetic feel. It's advisable to book in advance, especially if you're aiming for a less crowded experience – weekdays are frequently suggested as the quieter option.
Course Design: Creativity Meets Consistency
Holey Moley boasts 18 holes spread across two courses, promising a varied and potentially challenging experience. Reviewers frequently praise the creativity exhibited in certain holes, singling out the video game-themed designs as particularly innovative. Several commented that the first eight holes were favorites, offering unique and engaging obstacles.
However, the course isn't without its criticisms. A common complaint revolves around a perceived lack of variety. Multiple visitors noted the prevalence of a “U-shape” design across many holes, leading to a sense of repetition. The carpet surface used for putting also drew scrutiny; many experienced players found it unusually thin and fast, lacking the typical texture found in traditional miniature golf courses.
Here’s a quick comparison to other local courses based on reviewer feedback:
| Course | Reported Hole Variety | Putting Surface | Overall Impression |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holey Moley | Moderate | Thin & Fast | Fun, but inconsistent |
| Former Urban Putt | High | Standard | Highly Rated |
| Stagecoach Greens | High | Standard | Highly Rated |
Food, Drink & Practical Considerations
Holey Moley Golf Club isn’t just miniature golf; it's a social destination with a fully-stocked bar and restaurant. Reviews consistently praise the food quality, with the service receiving high marks, particularly from those who interacted with Peter. The drinks are described as “very good & strong.”
However, dining options have a time restriction; those under 21 are subject to earlier cut-off times. This led to a creative solution for one reviewer, whose waiter brought their food to the golfing area. Beyond the food and beverage, the facility offers convenient amenities, including wheelchair accessibility, restrooms, and accepts all major payment methods (credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments). It is also regarded as a good place to visit with kids.
One point of concern raised by a repeat visitor was the potential need for air purification on the first floor when the venue is crowded, suggesting the air can become “thick.”
Value & Entertainment: Is it Worth the Putt?
At $15 for nine holes (or potentially more with birthday upgrades!), Holey Moley positions itself as fairly-priced for a mini golf experience. However, some reviewers felt the entertainment value was somewhat limited, noting that each hole could be completed in around 30 seconds, resulting in a relatively short playtime.
The confusion surrounding game bookings – where a reservation was initially interpreted as two separate games rather than a full 18-hole course – also left a negative impression on one patron. Despite this initial hiccup, the staff ultimately resolved the issue with a voucher. The presence of a magician adding to the entertainment, though not guaranteed (especially on slower nights like Mondays), enhanced the experience for one lucky birthday guest.
Ultimately, Holey Moley appears to excel as a social hub and a particularly appealing option for those who appreciate a modern, themed take on classic miniature golf. While purists might critique certain aspects of the course design or putting surface, the lively atmosphere, friendly service, and added entertainment options make it a worthwhile destination.