Indoor Golf Simulators Rise as Driving Ranges Fade

Indoor Golf Simulators Take Off as Driving Ranges Disappear

Estero’sThe Cave Offers Fun Without the Sun

As the sun sets over Southwest Florida, the landscape of golf is changing. Gone are the days when you could spot a driving range at every corner; now, many of those sprawling green spaces have been replaced by urban developments and warehouses. But don’t despair, golf lovers! There’s a new trend on the rise: indoor golf simulators. And one venue leading the charge is The Cave, located at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13 in Estero.

Opened on February 4, The Cave is the brainchild of professional golfer Karen Nicoletti and her husband, former pro caddy Brad Swearingen. They saw the opportunity as outdoor ranges dwindled and decided to create an environment where golf enthusiasts could practice their swings year-round, rain or shine. With three golf simulators and a bar serving delicious food, The Cave has quickly become a go-to place for both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

Bigger and Better: What The Cave Offers

The Cave isn’t just your run-of-the-mill simulator setup; it’s a full-on experience. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the venue charges $50 an hour for one of its simulators, which can accommodate up to six people. A great reason to rally up your friends and hit the virtual links! While you’re there, why not enjoy a slice of pizza, some wings, or tasty appetizers? You can savor your meal while challenging each other on virtual courses that range from Pebble Beach to Augusta.

What’s more, The Cave is committed to giving back. They offer free women’s golf clinics on Mondays, alongside discounts for veterans, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services, and educators. It’s a fantastic way to support the community while getting more people engaged in golf.

The Changing Landscape of Golf

Nicoletti remarked, “The pandemic was great for the game of golf.” With public golf courses at an all-time high, golf seems more appealing than ever. However, potential golfers often grapple with the high costs associated with the sport. While playing the actual Pebble Beach course may set you back nearly $800, hitting the virtual version at The Cave is a much more economical option.

As development takes over prime spots for driving ranges, indoor golf becomes a more practical solution. For instance, several driving ranges in the area have been transformed into warehouses or grocery stores, making space for simulators all the more appealing. A modest area of just a few hundred square feet is needed to set up a simulator, making it an efficient use of space.

A Personal Touch

Swearingen faced challenges himself with a back injury that derailed his caddying career. While recovering, he dreamt of creating a golf haven—a place where anyone could come and enjoy the game without the pressure or intimidation often felt on traditional courses. As Nicoletti put it, “He opened up The Cave. The Man Cave.” Swearingen built much of the establishment by hand, bringing his vision to life through sweat and dedication.

But that’s not all—the couple has plans to expand even further! They aim to incorporate two indoor pickleball courts later this year, creating yet another attraction for locals.

This is Golf for Everyone

At The Cave, the goal is to make everyone feel welcoming and comfortable, regardless of skill level. Nicoletti emphasizes that there’s no need to feel intimidated; the simulators cater to everyone from beginners to advanced players. “We have great games on our simulators for kids,” she added.

As for the technology, Swearingen assured that the simulators are highly realistic. He demonstrated how hitting a real golf ball into the screen feels incredibly immersive— with the virtual ball mimicking its trajectory on the green. “It might take a little getting used to,” he acknowledged, but assured visitors that “It’s super realistic.”

So, if you’re in Southwest Florida and craving a round of golf, look no further than The Cave. With food, fun, and fantastic golf simulator experiences, it’s the perfect spot for friends, families, and golf lovers alike!