Indoor Golf Takes Flight as Outdoor Driving Ranges Disappear in Southwest Florida

Indoor Golf Takes Flight as Driving Ranges Disappear in Southwest Florida

As outdoor driving ranges fade away in Southwest Florida, indoor golf simulators are on the rise, and one new establishment is taking that trend and running with it. Nestled in Estero, The Cave has recently opened its doors, offering a unique blend of golfing, dining, and community spirit.

Welcome to The Cave

Located at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13, The Cave officially opened on February 4. The brainchild of a dynamic duo—Karen Nicoletti, an LPGA professional golfer, and her husband Brad Swearingen, a former professional golf caddy—this spot is more than just a place to hit virtual balls; it’s a full-on golfing experience. Not only can visitors enjoy three state-of-the-art golf simulators, but they can also relax at the bar serving delicious food, including pizza and wings.

A Fun and Welcoming Environment

What sets The Cave apart from other venues is its friendly atmosphere. Karen boasts that everyone is welcome, saying, “Coming here, you don’t have to worry about being intimidated. This is a place where beginners, advanced, and intermediate golfers can come and enjoy themselves.” Every Monday, The Cave even hosts free women’s golf clinics designed to make the sport more accessible and fun for everyone.

Getting Started with Simulators

Now, you might be wondering about the practicality of using a golf simulator versus hitting the greens outdoors. Using one of The Cave’s simulators costs $50 an hour and can accommodate up to six friends. That’s a steal compared to actual golf courses, where playing some of the best like Pebble Beach can set you back nearly $800.

Swearingen, who had to pivot his golfing career due to a back injury, built most of The Cave with his own two hands during his recovery. “When he was recovering, he needed a Plan B,” Karen explains. “And now it’s come to life, serving as a “Man Cave” for everyone who loves golf.”

Why Golf Simulators Are All the Rage

The rise of golf simulators comes at a time when physical outdoor spaces for the sport have become scarce. With traditional driving ranges disappearing—one off Alico Road is now an Amazon warehouse and another on Daniels Parkway has turned into a Whole Foods—golf enthusiasts look for alternatives. Golf simulators take up much less space, creating a perfect solution without requiring large swathes of land.

Nicoletti highlights how golf has surged in popularity during the pandemic, with public courses seeing record numbers. However, she also notes that the economic barrier to playing golf has never been higher. “There are a lot of people who love the game, but there are very few places to play,” she explains.

The Experience of Golfing Indoors

Once inside The Cave, guests can expect an engaging experience. For those still skeptical about using a simulator, Swearingen notes, “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 so realistic that you soon think you’re really out on the golf course.” He adds that not only can players try their hand at regular games, but they can also enjoy practicing shots from sand traps or putting greens.

Building for the Future

And the fun doesn’t stop there. The Cave has plans in the works to add two indoor pickleball courts later this year. This multifunctional approach aims to create a community hub for everyone to gather, play, and enjoy.

As The Cave continues thriving as a place for golf and fun, it exemplifies a shift in how we interact with sports in a changing world. So next time you’re itching for a round of golf but dread the long drive to a crowded course, consider stopping by The Cave for a refreshing and innovative take on the game!