Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf: The Mini Golf Course with a Train Ride

Ask any kid who’s played Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf what they remember, and the answer is always the same: “THE TRAIN!”

A mining train takes you on an exciting ride to the top of the mountain where both 18-hole courses begin. Then you putt your way down — through caves, over bridges, past waterfalls, along rivers, and through the story of Professor Duffer A. Hacker, noted explorer, archaeologist, anthropologist, paleontologist, and part-time taxidermist.

It’s five minutes from our condo at 601 Hillside Dr N, and it’s the #1 kid magnet on the NMB mini golf circuit.

The Basics

The Train Ride: The Best Opening Act in Mini Golf

Every round at Professor Hacker’s starts the same way: you board a small mining train at the base of the mountain. The engine chugs, the wheels grind against the rails, and the warm evening air rushes past as the train winds through the entire course on its way up. You catch glimpses of waterfalls catching the last sunlight, dark cave mouths that beckon, and rickety-looking bridges you’ll soon be putting across. Kids are already buzzing by the time you reach the top, pointing and tugging sleeves.

Then the real fun begins. Both courses start at the summit and work their way down through the mountain — gravity-assisted mini golf where you’re always descending, always discovering what’s around the next corner. The sound of rushing water follows you downhill, growing louder and softer as you weave between features.

Note: The train operates weather permitting and may occasionally be unavailable (driver on break, mechanical issues). The course is still playable via stairs when the train isn’t running, but call ahead if the train is your kids’ primary draw.

Two Courses: Gold and Diamond

The Gold Course

The more accessible of the two courses, Gold follows the story of Professor Hacker’s expedition through well-maintained holes with caves, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Sunlight filters through the canopy overhead, dappling the green turf as you putt past moss-covered boulders and through tunnels cool enough to make you shiver after the Carolina heat. The holes are fun but manageable for younger players. The downhill layout means the ball moves — kids love watching their putts gain speed on the gentle slopes, chasing after them with bare feet slapping the walkway.

Our recommendation: Play Gold first (easier, good warm-up), then tackle Diamond for the more immersive experience. Take advantage of the discounted second round (~$6) to play both.

The Mystery Hole

Here’s a fun twist: each day, one specific hole is designated the “Mystery Hole.” If anyone in your group aces it (hole-in-one), you win a free round at any Professor Hacker course. The mystery hole changes daily, so you never know which one it is. It adds a layer of excitement to every single putt — your grip tightens just a little on each approach, the putter suddenly heavier in your hands. “Is THIS the mystery hole?” The suspense turns routine putts into white-knuckle moments.

The Professor Hacker Family of Courses

Professor Hacker isn’t just one course — it’s a mini golf empire. If your kids love Lost Treasure, they’ll want to try the others:<. Play at night when the dinosaurs glow in electric greens and purples, their shadows stretching across the fairways — it’s spectacular. Two courses: T-Rex and Raptor.

Mayday Golf (3 min from the condo) — 36 holes of jungle plane-crash adventure, with vines draping over crashed fuselage and the hiss of steam vents along the path. Features an erupting volcano and an animatronic pirate who tells jokes and interacts with players. Waterfalls and cascading scenery throughout.

All three courses share the Professor Hacker’s brand of immersive theming, adventure storylines, and excellent course maintenance. The discounted second round (~$6) is available at each.

What Reviewers Say

“Best Mini Golf in Myrtle Beach — the train ride makes it unique!”

“The holes were all in great condition with a mix of tricks. Landscaping was outstanding.”

“This miniature golf business rises above most on the Hwy 17 strip.”

“Lost Treasure was definitely our preferred site — the train ride to the first hole was a great way to start.”

“Despite being a busy Friday night in July, the train spacing kept things moving with virtually no waiting.”

Tips for Your Visit

1. The train is the draw — plan for it. If your kids are excited about the train, call ahead on busy days to confirm it’s running.
2. Buy the discounted second round. At ~$6 for round two, playing both the Gold and Diamond courses is the way to go.
3. Check coupon books. The Monster Coupon Book (free at hotel lobbies) usually has $1 off per person before 6 PM.
4. Caves get hot in summer. Even in the evening, the caves have limited airflow. Bring water and stay hydrated.
5. Evening play is great. The course is well-lit for night play, and the waterfalls and caves take on a different character after dark.
6. Pair with Dinosaur Adventure. Play Lost Treasure during the day, then hit Dinosaur Adventure at night when the dino lighting is at its best. Both are 5 minutes from the condo.

How It Compares

Best For

• Families with young children — The train ride is pure magic for little kids
• Multi-generational groups — The downhill courses are manageable for grandparents
• Adventure-loving kids — The treasure hunt storyline engages imaginations
• Families wanting a full evening — Play Lost Treasure, then Dinosaur Adventure after dark

Ready to Putt? Book Your Stay First.

601 Hillside Dr N puts you minutes from every mini golf course on this list — and just a 0.65-mile walk through the Ocean Keyes complex to the beach when you’re done putting. Book your stay and challenge the family to a putt-putt showdown.

Check Availability & Book Your Stay

See all NMB courses in our complete mini golf guide, or explore what to do between rounds with the beach guide and dining guide.