Local guide · Carolina Beach
Surf’s Up Mini Golf
Surf’s Up opened in 2025 and quickly became one of the most talked-about mini golf courses on the coast. Its 18 holes have water features, a 15-foot waterfall, and KiKi, a 15-foot animatronic kraken.
Why families go
Grown-ups rate it among the best courses they’ve played, which says a lot about the creativity and challenge of the holes. Kids love the kraken and the vintage VW Bug. The staff are consistently kind, and the Italian ice is a favorite. Your round pass lets you come back later the same day. Some holes are lit for evening play.
Don’t miss
- KiKi the KrakenThe 15-foot animatronic octopus is the course’s signature.
- The waterfall holesTwelve of the 18 holes have water features.
- Italian iceThe treat most visitors mention.
- Halloween on the courseA haunted after-dark version runs in October; check dates.
Photo: Surf’s Up Mini Golf
Before you go
- It’s outdoors, with misting fans for hot days.
- There’s an adults-only tiki bar on site; the course itself is family friendly.
- It closes for part of the winter (mid-January to late February).
Plan your visit
- Where: 1360 Bridge Barrier Rd., Carolina Beach, NC 28428 (just over the Snow’s Cut Bridge)
- From Topsail: About 55 minutes from central Surf City.
- Hours: Daily from late morning into the evening; later on weekends. See the website for current hours.
- Admission: Paid per round.
- Hours & info: surfsupminigolf.com
- More nearby: more family fun in Carolina Beach
A short drive from the island. Browse our Topsail Island vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.
Based on official information from the attraction and on recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Hours, seasons and prices change, so confirm before you go.