A Hole-in-One Experience: New Indoor Golf Spot in Estero Takes Swing at Popularity
If you thought outdoor golf was the only way to enjoy the game, think again! With outdoor golf driving ranges disappearing across Southwest Florida, a new trend is taking root indoors, and it’s turning heads and filling hearts with excitement. Yes, we’re talking about indoor golf simulators! One hotspot leading the charge is The Cave, a brand-new indoor golf bar nestled in Estero at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13. Opened on February 4, this unique venue combines food, drinks, and top-notch golfing—all under one roof!
Meet the Power Couple Behind The Cave
The Cave was brought to life by golf enthusiasts Karen Nicoletti and Brad Swearingen. Nicoletti, a seasoned professional golfer on the LPGA, along with her husband Swearingen, a former pro golf caddy, decided to capitalize on the indoor golfing surge. With pandemic-driven enthusiasm for golf at an all-time high, they believed it was the perfect time to open a space catering to both newbie golfers and seasoned pros.
“The pandemic was great for the game of golf,” Nicoletti mentioned in an interview. “Public golf courses are hitting their all-time high. But it’s tough for the average person to be able to afford the sport. There are a lot of people who love the game, but there are very few places to play.” Those words ring especially true in a region where the cost to play a course like Pebble Beach is nearly $800! At The Cave, a round on their simulators is just $50 an hour, and trust us, you can bring up to six friends along.
More Than Just Golf
The Cave isn’t just about hitting a few balls; it’s a full-fledged entertainment experience. Their menu features tasty options like pizza, wings, and appetizers, giving patrons a reason to settle in and make a day out of it. Plus, they’re rolling out some sweet deals with free women’s golf clinics on Mondays and special discounts for veterans, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical workers, and educators. Talk about community spirit!
Space You Can Swing In
What’s more, The Cave is not just about the sport; it’s also about accessibility. With vast outdoor driving ranges falling victim to retail developments, the space requirements for a golf simulator are much less. While a traditional driving range often needs acres of land, The Cave operates out of only a few hundred square feet. And what a brilliant use of space it is!
Taking Swinging to the Next Level
After a back injury halted Swearingen’s caddying career, he saw a gap in the market for indoor golf where players could enjoy themselves without intimidation. “When he was recovering, he needed a Plan B,” Nicoletti said, as she shared the story of how The Cave came to be. “He opened up The Cave. The Man Cave. He pretty much built it with his own two hands.” What a transformation!
And there’s even more in store for visitors. Plans are in motion to add two indoor pickleball courts later this year. Until then, the focus remains on becoming a go-to spot for fun and friendly golf games.
Golfing for Everyone
Here’s where it gets exciting: The Cave is all about breaking down barriers. “Coming here, you don’t have to worry about being intimidated,” Nicoletti said. “This is a place where beginners, advanced, and intermediate players can come and enjoy themselves without that intimidation factor. We have great games on our simulators for kids.”
The thrill of the game is palpable as Swearingen demonstrated the simulator’s capabilities, hitting a ball that soared across the screen and into a virtual hole. “It might take a little getting used to,” he explained. “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. You’ll see. It’s super realistic.”
So, whether you’re up for a night of competitive golf, looking to learn the ropes, or just want to grab a bite to eat with friends, The Cave is ready to welcome you into its indoor paradise. Who knew that your next golf adventure could be just around the corner?
