Indoor Golf Simulators on the Rise as Outdoor Ranges Disappear!
In a twisting turn of events, **Southwest Florida** is experiencing a shift in the golfing world. While outdoor golf driving ranges are disappearing faster than last week’s leftovers, indoor golf simulators are rising like a phoenix! Enter **The Cave**, a new spot in Estero that’s aiming to change the game. With three high-tech simulators that let you play virtually anywhere, this cozy bar and eatery is stealing the spotlight!
Welcome to The Cave!
Opened on February 4, **The Cave** is located at 9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 13. The brains behind this clever concept are **Karen Nicoletti**, a pro golfer who’s played with the LPGA, and her husband **Brad Swearingen**, who once carried bags on the professional circuit. These two are excited to welcome everyone into their golf sanctuary.
Worried about your skill level? Fear not! They offer free **women’s golf clinics** every Monday and special discounts for heroes in our community, including veterans, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services, and educators. It’s truly a place for everyone.
What Can You Do at The Cave?
The Cave is open daily from **11 a.m. to 10 p.m.** and packs a fantastic experience for just **$50 an hour** per simulator, big enough for up to six players. Get your friends together and enjoy pizza, wings, and appetizers while engaging in friendly competition!
“The pandemic was great for the game of golf,” Nicoletti shared. And you know what? She’s got a point! Public courses are seeing their busiest days yet. However, the costs to hit the real courses have shot up. Who can afford nearly **$800** just to play at Pebble Beach? No thanks! They offer virtual versions instead, where you can experience some of the top courses without breaking the bank.
Why Go Indoor?
Outdoor driving ranges have been disappearing like ice cream on a hot Florida day! A nearby range on **Alico Road** is now an Amazon warehouse, while another on **Daniels Parkway** transformed into a Whole Foods Market. With only a few hundred square feet needed for a simulator, it’s clear why many owners are turning old ranges into something more profitable.
After a back injury curtailed Swearingen’s caddying career, he needed a backup plan. “When he was recovering, he needed a Plan B,” Nicoletti said. “He opened up The Cave. The Man Cave. He pretty much built it with his own two hands.” Talk about DIY spirit!
More Fun on the Way!
But wait, there’s more! The Cave plans to add two **indoor pickleball courts** later this year, ensuring that there’s even more fun to be had in this mixed-use venue. For now, it’s all about golf, and they promise a no-pressure atmosphere. “Coming here, you don’t have to worry about being intimidated,” Nicoletti said. Whether you’re a complete newbie or a seasoned player, The Cave wants everyone to feel comfortable and confident.
A Realistic Experience!
Swearingen demonstrated how the golf simulators work by hitting a real ball into the screen. With a whoosh, the virtual ball took off, landing beautifully on the green! “It might take a little getting used to at first,” he remarked, explaining that without a horizon, it can feel different. But after a hole or two, you’ll feel like you’re on a real course.
The accuracy is mind-blowing. You can practice all kinds of shots, from putting greens to tricky sand traps. It’s an experience that’ll keep you entertained all day long!
So if you’re looking for a unique activity, bring your gang down to The Cave. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the game we love without any of the outdoor stress. Golf is waiting for you here—rain or shine!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
