Indoor Golf Simulators Take Over as Outdoor Ranges Fade in Southwest Florida

Indoor Golf Simulators Soar as Outdoor Ranges Disappear in Southwest Florida

As outdoor golf driving ranges continue to fade away across Southwest Florida, a new trend is sweeping in to take their place: indoor golf simulators. These high-tech setups are allowing golfing enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite sport regardless of the weather or the lack of available outdoor spaces. One of the most popular spots leading the charge is The Cave, which opened its doors in Estero on February 4. With the blend of a bar, food service, and three state-of-the-art simulators, The Cave is offering a fresh take on the golfing experience.

A Golfing Haven with a Twist

The Cave, located at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13, has quickly become a haven for golfers and newcomers alike. “The pandemic was great for the game of golf,” says Karen Nicoletti, a professional golfer with the LPGA. “Public golf courses are hitting their all-time high, but it’s tough for the average person to be able to afford the sport.” With so many outdoor driving ranges disappearing—one was replaced by an Amazon warehouse and another by a Whole Foods Market—the owners saw a need for a new golfing venue.

Unlike traditional golf courses, which often carry hefty fees like the nearly $800 required for an actual round at Pebble Beach, The Cave offers a more budget-friendly option. For just $50 an hour, up to six people can immerse themselves in digital golfing on one of their simulators. The facility is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it convenient for those who want to swing some clubs after work or during the weekend.

Special Offers and Community Engagement

The Cave is not just about hitting balls into a screen. NIcoletti and her husband, Brad Swearingen, a former professional golf caddy, are committed to building a community around the sport. They provide free women’s golf clinics on Mondays and have special offerings for veterans, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services, and educators. These incentives are aimed at making the game more accessible to everyone.

A Personal Journey Turns Entrepreneurial

Swearingen’s journey to opening The Cave came after a back injury forced him to retire from his caddying career. “When he was recovering, he needed a Plan B,” Nicoletti explains. And thus, The Cave was born, with Swearingen even doing much of the construction work himself. Now, he and Nicoletti are not just aiming to provide a place for golfers; they want to make it a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels.

“Coming here, you don’t have to worry about being intimidated,” says Nicoletti. “This is a place where beginners, advanced, intermediate can come and enjoy themselves without that intimidation factor. We have great games on our simulators for kids.” The simulators offer a variety of features, including the ability to hit shots from sand traps or putting greens, making it an engaging experience.

Realistic Experiences Awaits

According to Swearingen, the transition from real golf to simulator golf might come with a slight learning curve. “It might take a little getting used to,” he admits, acknowledging the lack of a horizon can challenge depth perception. However, he assures that golfers will soon enjoy a super realistic experience, comparable to being on an actual course. “You’ll see, it’s so accurate that you soon think you’re really out on the golf course.”

So if you find yourself in Southwest Florida longing for a hit of golfing fun, The Cave is ready to take your game to the next level. With innovative technology, community-driven initiatives, and a cozy bar atmosphere, it’s no wonder that indoor golf simulators are booming while traditional driving ranges vanish. Grab a few friends, order some pizza, and get ready to tee off in style!