Pros 
Cons A Hole Lot of Fun: First Impressions of Aloha Mini Golf & Shave Ice
Aloha Mini Golf & Shave Ice in St. Louis appears to be hitting all the right notes with families and fun-seekers! Consistently earning a 4.5-star rating, this spot offers a surprisingly affordable outing at just $8 per person for unlimited play. Visitors frequently praise the overall vibe and atmosphere, emphasizing its appeal as a great value compared to other mini golf options in the area. The presence of the historic KCS caboose adds a charming, unique touch.
Many reviewers highlight the dual-course setup – an original, more challenging course and a newer, precision-focused one. This caters to a wider range of skill levels and preferences. The newer course is described as cleaner and emphasizing accuracy, while the older course provides a more demanding experience. Several patrons specifically recommend trying both for a well-rounded experience. Beyond the mini golf, the shave ice is a definite draw, with a huge variety of flavors crafted from homemade cane sugar syrup. It's described as generously portioned and flavorful throughout – a welcome treat after a round of golf! The staff consistently receives positive mentions for being "chill" and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
Course Design and Features: A Mixed Bag
While the overall experience is highly rated, opinions on the course design itself are slightly more nuanced. The newer course is appreciated for its focus on precision, but some wish it had more elaborate décor to match the aesthetic of the original course. There's a noticeable disparity in decoration between the two, with the left course (presumably the original) being more heavily adorned.
Several visitors have suggested enhancements to the experience, such as the addition of speakers playing music on the courses to enhance the ambiance. One recurring observation points out an imbalance in the availability of trash cans – the right course has significantly more than the left. A minor critique, but one that demonstrates attention to detail.
Here’s a quick breakdown of features customers have mentioned:
- Course Variety: Two 18-hole courses catering to different skill levels.
- Decor: Generally well-received, with a preference for more consistent theming.
- Accessibility: Features wheelchair accessible parking.
- Family-Friendliness: Highly rated as a destination for families, with a dedicated playground.
- Hole-in-One Perks: Opportunity to win a free round of golf based on a randomly selected hole.
Facilities and Practical Considerations: Areas for Improvement
Despite the fun atmosphere, several reviews point to areas requiring attention regarding the facility's amenities. The most prominent and consistent complaint revolves around the single restroom available for what can be a large crowd (estimated at 100+ people on a Saturday night). Many reviewers believe this falls short of hygiene standards and building code requirements, suggesting the addition of portable toilets with hand sanitizers as a minimum solution.
Other considerations include:
- Signage: While existing signage is noted, reviewers suggest better advertisement to attract more visitors.
- Shade: An increase in shade on the newer course is requested, particularly during warmer months.
- Payment Options: Accepts credit & debit cards, as well as NFC mobile payments.
- Restroom Facilities: Severely lacking for the volume of visitors. (Priority Improvement!)
It’s clear that addressing the restroom issue would significantly enhance the overall customer experience.
Buzzing Concerns and Sweet Solutions
Aloha Mini Golf & Shave Ice isn’t without its minor drawbacks. A concerning, but isolated, review mentioned a significant number of bees present on the property, deterring some from enjoying their visit. This is a seasonal issue, but one the business should proactively address to ensure the comfort and safety of its patrons.
However, the positive experiences far outweigh the negatives. The shave ice continues to be a standout highlight, praised for its unique flavors—ranging from classic sweetness to more refined options—and the way the flavors permeate the entire treat.
Here’s a summary of recent guest experiences:
“The Hawaiian ice with homemade syrup made from cane sugar is very refreshing to grab after the first 18 holes.”
“It was nice to be able to enjoy our shaved ices in the patio area.”
“The staff was friendly too. We’ll definitely be back!”
Despite some minor issues, Aloha Mini Golf & Shave Ice offers a fun, affordable, and family-friendly experience in St. Louis, and seems poised to continue attracting visitors with its unique combination of mini golf and delicious treats.