The North Carolina Coast Feature

There seems to be an unspoken competition among miniature golf courses to come up with the most outrageous themes and outlandish decor. Trams that resemble old mining trains roll through man made caves and under waterfalls. Stocks await unruly pirates, and giant giraffes hide in bushy corners. It's all in good fun, and putt-putt provides great family entertainment. Many facilities also have snack grills, arcades, and batting cages. Here are some of our favorites:

Lost Treasure Golf. More than the usual mix of palm trees and waterfalls, Lost Treasure Golf also features bumper boats and a go-kart track that both kids and adults find irresistible before, after, or instead of playing golf. 976 Salter Path Rd., Salter Path, NC, 28575. 252/247-3024. www.losttreasuregolf.com/miniature-golf-locations/salter-path-nc.

Carolina Beach Jungle Mini Golf. Swing a club or a bat at Carolina Beach Jungle Mini Golf. This jungle-themed course includes batting cages and some interesting holes. At No. 10, you'll hit the ball into the water then watch it float to the hole. 906 Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach, NC, 28428. 910/458-8888.

Lost Treasure Golf. Check out the pirate ship or take a mini mining cart train to the top of a mountain in the middle of what resembles a Wild West mission town. The cart takes you to the first holes, making the course extra fun for kids. 1600 N. Croatan Hwy., Kill Devil Hills, NC, 27948. 252/480-0142. www.losttreasuregolf.com/miniature-golf-locations/kill-devil-hills-nc.