Played on July 9th & 11th, 2020
Reviewed by Mr. Tee
The Pink Putter already documented the other half of this Brainerd Pirate’s Cove Captain’s Course. This is the only Minnesota-based location of the larger Pirate’s Cove national chain and in a perfect location in Brainerd to serve the summer tourists that head “Up North” to take in the plentiful lakes and ambiance.
Rating
The review of the other half of this mini golf complex holds true for this course. The biggest difference is that Blackbeard’s Challenge doesn’t take you onto the boat. Supposedly, the putting was more difficult on this course but I ended up playing much better on this half of the complex. Caves, waterfalls, sloping greens, and little pirate-themed bits throughout make this an above-average fun-putting adventure. Well worth a stop if you’re headed up north and want a break from the lakes and water.
Pirate’s Cove Brainerd Website
17992 MN-371, Brainerd, MN 56401
Pros
Clean and super well maintained
Large water features and immaculate landscaping
Immersive pirate theme
Large playing areas with challenging and varied gameplay
Cons
Unique to Minnesota, but not unique to the Pirate’s Cove franchise
Nerdy Notes
- 18 holes, Par 40
- No flags in cups
- Captain’s Course Adults $8.95, Children* $7.95, Blackbeard’s Challenge Adults $8.95, Children* $7.95, 36-Hole Adventure Adults $14.95, Children* $13.50, *Children: Age 4 to 12 (ages 3 and under play free)
- Rubber covered putters
- Season: Last weekend in April – 3rd weekend in October
- The 18th hole collects the ball
- go-karts on-premise