A Swing Towards the Future: Indoor Golf Simulators Are Taking Over in Southwest Florida
Gone are the days when golf driving ranges dotted the Southwest Florida landscape. With outdoor spots disappearing at a rapid pace, golf lovers are finding a new way to tee off—right indoors! Welcome to The Cave, a state-of-the-art indoor golf center that aims to provide a welcoming space for golfers of all levels.
What Is The Cave?
Located at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13, in Estero, The Cave opened its doors on February 4. It combines the thrill of virtual reality golf with a lively bar serving delicious eats. The founders, both professionals with impressive golf backgrounds, are committed to making golf accessible for everyone. With three virtual golf simulators, guests can experience some of the world’s most renowned courses without stepping foot outside.
Golfing for Everyone
Karen Nicoletti, a professional golfer with the LPGA, and her husband Brad Swearingen, a former caddy, are the dynamic duo behind The Cave. They’re not just business partners but also passionate golf enthusiasts who genuinely want to share their love for the game. “The pandemic was great for the game of golf,” Nicoletti said. “Public golf courses are hitting their all-time high. But it’s tough for the average person to afford the sport.”
The Cave charges $50 an hour for a simulator that can accommodate up to six players. This price is affordable compared to the staggering nearly $800 it costs to play the real Pebble Beach course. Plus, spending time at The Cave means you can enjoy tasty treats like pizza, wings, and other appetizers while you play.
A Unique Experience
With the desire to create a no-pressure environment, Nicoletti emphasized that The Cave is all about inclusivity. “When you come here, you don’t have to worry about being intimidated. This is a place where beginners, advanced players, and everyone in between can come and enjoy themselves without that intimidation factor,” she added. It’s also a great place for kids, thanks to the engaging games available on the simulators.
How It Works
So, how does a golf simulator really work? Swearingen demonstrated the experience: as he struck a golf ball, it flew onto the simulator screen, with the virtual version carrying on its journey as if it were a real-life shot. Golfers can practice hitting from various challenging scenarios like sand traps or putting greens. “It might take a little getting used to, maybe a hole or two, because there’s no horizon to give you depth. But it’s so accurate and realistic that you feel like you’re truly on the course,” Swearingen explained.
Future Plans and Community Outreach
The Cave isn’t stopping at just golf simulators. The owners have exciting plans to build indoor pickleball courts later this year. In the meantime, they’re dedicated to giving back to the community. They offer free women’s golf clinics every Monday and special discounts for veterans, police, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, and educators.
A New Era for Golfing in Florida
With driving ranges rapidly disappearing—like the one that turned into an Amazon warehouse—the future for golf fans seems to point indoors. Simulators only require a few hundred square feet, making them a practical alternative for cities where land is limited. For aspiring golfers and seasoned pros alike, The Cave in Estero is a beacon of hope, proving that you don’t need wide-open spaces to enjoy a great game of golf.
So, whether you’re looking to improve your swing, enjoy a fun time with friends, or try something new, The Cave is ready to welcome you with open arms. Swing by to explore this exciting indoor golfing experience!
