Golf Takes a Swing Indoors: The Rise of Simulators in Estero
As we all know, traditional outdoor golf driving ranges are slowly disappearing across Southwest Florida, but that doesn’t mean golfers are being left out in the cold! Rather, a new trend has emerged that’s taking the golfing community by storm: indoor golf simulators. One of the latest additions to this growing scene is a place called The Cave, located at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13 in Estero. Opened just recently on February 4, this hotspot combines the excitement of golf with the comfort of a bar and kitchen.
Opening New Doors for Golf Lovers
The brainchild of professional golfer Karen Nicoletti and her husband Brad Swearingen, a former pro golf caddy, The Cave is shaking things up for local golf enthusiasts. With three state-of-the-art simulators, guests can play famous courses without even stepping outside! Just think about it: instead of paying around $800 to play at Pebble Beach, you can get that experience virtually for much less. Plus, The Cave offers free golf clinics for women every Monday and special discounts for veterans, police, firefighters, EMS personnel, and educators. Talk about a community-focused business!
An Affordable Slice of Golf
Visitors to The Cave can enjoy the golf action from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a curious newbie, you can always find a spot on a simulator for just $50 an hour. These simulators can accommodate groups of up to six people, making it a perfect outing for friends or family. The food menu even has something for everyone, featuring delicious options like pizza, wings, and various appetizers to fuel your game.
Creating a Welcoming Space
According to Nicoletti, the pandemic did wonders for the game of golf, leading to record highs for public golf courses. But accessible options for golfers have dwindled, and many people miss out on playing due to high costs and limited availability. Swearingen, who faced a back injury that ended his caddying career, decided to take matters into his own hands and turn The Cave into a reality. “He built it with his own two hands,” Nicoletti said proudly.
More Than Just Golf
The Cave isn’t just about golf; there are plans to build two indoor pickleball courts later this year. But until then, the couple aims to create a fun, relaxed atmosphere where both beginners and seasoned golfers can play without the pressure of feeling out of place. “Coming here, you don’t have to worry about being intimidated,” says Nicoletti. “Everyone can enjoy themselves. We even offer kid-friendly games on our simulators!”
Golfing Like Never Before
Ever seen a real golf ball transformed into a virtual masterpiece? Swearingen demonstrated just how realistic the experience in The Cave really is when he drove a ball into the simulator screen. The real ball hit the screen, but the virtual ball took off as if it were on the golf course, landing perfectly on the green! For those worried about the transition, Swearingen assures that the simulators are incredibly accurate and true-to-life, even if it takes a few holes to adjust. “You’ll see how realistic it is!” he exclaims.
Community at the Core
As the golf landscape changes in Southwest Florida, indoor golf facilities like The Cave offer new solutions for enthusiasts who want to keep their game alive, regardless of weather or location. With a menu that matches its innovative offerings and a vision for community engagement, this welcoming establishment aims to keep golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone. So whether you’re in it for the love of the game or just looking for a fun evening out with friends, The Cave has got you covered!
