Chips & Divots: Improving Your Mini-Golf Game

Photo by Kip Dawkins

Cape May County is home to many mini-golf courses that make for a great family adventure, a unique date night or even some rainy day fun, especially when you’re in the mood for some friendly competition.

It might sound stilly to offer tips on playing mini-golf, but some people take this game pretty seriously! Mini-golf courses have obstacles such as volcanoes, waterfalls, windmills and more, creating a challenge on the course, but also making for a memorable experience. Here are some tips to improve your mini-golf game and dominate the microgreen:

1. Pick the right size putter.
When choosing a putter, position your hands near the middle of the grip and get into putting position. The top of the putter should hit you around your hip area, where your belt would sit.

2. Get to know the area.
Before starting, take a walk around the course and examine the land. Take note of any hazards, traps and obstacles. When you arrive at a hole, walk from the tee to the cup and again, take note of hazards, traps and obstacles. Doing so will help you figure out the shortest route to the cup and your approach.

3. Choose a target.
Be specific when choosing where to aim so your shot is more accurate. Draw a mental line from your ball to your target, whether it’s a piece of trash on the floor or a scuff on the wall.

4. Set your body up correctly.
The way you set your body up when playing mini-golf is simple, but important. Your feet should be together and aligned with the imaginary line you just envisioned. Your eyes should also be aligned with that mental line, and your putter should be perpendicular with the hole.

5. Swing easy.
Over-hitting the ball on swings is a common problem among mini-golfers. It’s important to remember to stroke the ball smoothly and continue swinging through the ball. If possible, take some practice shots to help you get a feel for how fast the ball will travel on that specific course.

Hit the mini-green and test your skills at Duffer’s Mini Golf in Wildwood, or check out Morey’s Piers’ brand new Starlux Mini Golf Course!

If you’re ready to take your golf game to the next level, check out Avalon Golf Club in Cape May Court House, Heritage Links Golf Club in Ocean View, Cape May Par 3 & Driving Range in Rio Grande, Laguna Oaks Golf Course in Cape May Court House or Sand Barrens Golf Club in Swainton!