Whirlwind Golf Club
1 / 10

Whirlwind Golf Club

4.5
·737 reviews·Chandler, United States

Two Gary Panks-designed desert golf courses offering stunning mountain views and championship play.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better pace of play

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Whirlwind Golf Club

Whirlwind Golf Club

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better pace of play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Two Gary Panks-designed desert golf courses offering stunning mountain views and championship play.

4.5
(737 reviews)

"A fantastic challenge with stunning mountain views and pristine course conditions."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Popular courses fill up fast! Secure your spot online, especially for weekend play .

💧 Stay Hydrated

Arizona sun is intense. Bring plenty of water or grab a Birdie Boost on the cart .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cattail Course

Cattail Course

Whirlwind Golf Club

A challenging 18-hole masterpiece by Gary Panks, blending desert hazards with wide fairways.

Devil's Claw Course

Devil's Claw Course

Whirlwind Golf Club

Gary Panks' other 18-hole gem, offering a unique Southwest golf experience amidst natural desert beauty.

LPGA Ford Championship Venue

LPGA Ford Championship Venue

Whirlwind Golf Club

Experience the thrill of a course that hosts professional LPGA tournaments, like the Ford Championship.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Tee Times in Advance

Whirlwind Golf Club is a popular spot, especially with its two renowned courses. Booking your tee times well in advance is crucial, particularly if you're aiming for peak season or weekend slots. Consider booking through GolfNow for potential deals.Reddit

Prepare for Desert Conditions

Arizona's desert climate means sun and heat are significant factors. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and opt for breathable golf attire. While some reviews mention rain, desert golf is typically a sunny affair. The carts often come equipped with amenities like Birdie Boost to help you stay refreshed.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better pace of play
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
During off-peak season
Why
Lower rates, more availability
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Golf Course Rating @whirlwindgolf What is this golf course rating? This is Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass and located in Chandler,Arizona, and offers a unique Southwest golf experience.It features two 18-hole courses,Devil’s Claw and Cattail,both designed by Gary Panks. The courses are masterpieces that blend seamlesslyinto the natural terrain,The cost to play here will range from 79 dol...
joshrutherford.golf
58 likes • 1.8K views

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Popular courses fill up fast! Secure your spot online, especially for weekend play.Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Arizona sun is intense. Bring plenty of water or grab a Birdie Boost on the cart.Instagram

LPGA Professional and Arizona resident Alena Sharp came out to get a peak at Cattail for the first time. Check out how she plays hole number 17, Par 5. FORD Championship at Wild Horse Pass Whirlwind Golf Club - Cattail March 27 - 30, 2025 DM us for volunteer opportunities. #lpga #sharpie #alenasharp #golf #fordchampionship
whirlwindgolf
170 likes • 5.3K views
Nelly Korda tees off at Whirlwind Golf Club at the LPGA Ford Championship 2025. The fairway is narrow and surrounded by trees. She swings perfectly and lands precisely. 1 John 4:7a “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.” Thanks God! Enjoy life.
wen_xuejun
32 likes • 2.2K views

⛰️ Enjoy Mountain Views

The Sierra Estrella Mountains offer stunning backdrops on both courses.

👍 Friendly Staff

Many visitors praise the welcoming and helpful nature of the staff.Reddit

The work never stops. 💪 Follow @charley.hull around Whirlwind Golf Club during her practice round. #TeamTaylorMade
taylormade_tour
2.2K likes • 69K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Popular courses fill up fast! Secure your spot online, especially for weekend play.Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Arizona sun is intense. Bring plenty of water or grab a Birdie Boost on the cart.Instagram

⛰️ Enjoy Mountain Views

The Sierra Estrella Mountains offer stunning backdrops on both courses.

👍 Friendly Staff

Many visitors praise the welcoming and helpful nature of the staff.Reddit

🚗 Consider Cart Amenities

Carts can be surprisingly nice and sometimes offer convenient refreshments.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(737 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Whirlwind Golf Club is widely praised for its beautifully maintained courses, stunning desert scenery, and friendly staff. Golfers enjoy the challenge of both the Cattail and Devil's Claw courses, with many highlighting the pristine greens and picturesque mountain views. However, some visitors have encountered issues with slow pace of play and inconsistent course marshal experiences.

"Had an amazing day at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass! Played the Cattail course, and it was a fantastic challenge—wide fairways but enough desert hazards to keep you honest. The views of the Sierra Estrella Mountains are stunning, and the course was in pristine shape, from the tee boxes to the fast, true greens. The staff were super friendly, and the practice facility is top-notch—huge range and two big putting greens to warm up.

The Sivlik Grill was a great spot to unwind after the round; the food was solid, and the patio vibe was perfect for soaking in the scenery. Only minor downside was the pace of play got a bit slow around the turn, but it didn’t ruin the experience. Just a short drive from Phoenix, this place feels like a hidden gem. Can’t wait to come back and tackle Devil’s Claw next time!"

Dustin Southway

"Pace of play was terrible. Took 2 1/2 hours to play 9 holes, no sign of a course ranger. We called the clubhouse but they didn’t send out anyone. Had to replay front 9 to get 18 in before dark. Not worth the $200 green fee."

Cormac McGann

"Played Cattail for my son's birthday. The course was in good shape with a friendly staff. The greens putted true and were in excellent shape. Played during the weekday with around a 3.5 hour round. Need to go back and play the other 18 now. The carts were nicer than my truck."

Robert Yamamoto

What People Like

Beautiful desert scenery
Pristine course conditions
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Slow pace of play
Inconsistent marshal experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Whirlwind Golf Club is located at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Arizona. It's a relatively short drive from Phoenix, making it accessible for day trips or as part of a larger Arizona golf itinerary.Reddit Check GPS for the most direct route from your starting point.

Yes, ample parking is available for golfers at the club. You can typically park close to the clubhouse and practice facilities.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally available in the Phoenix metropolitan area and can be used to reach Whirlwind Golf Club. It's advisable to check availability in the specific area.

The Cattail and Devil's Claw courses are part of the same complex. Golf carts are available for use on each course, and the clubhouse serves both. If you plan to play both in one day, you'll likely transition through the main clubhouse area.

The club is part of the Wild Horse Pass complex, which may have associated resorts or hotels. Additionally, Chandler and the greater Phoenix area offer a wide range of hotel options for visitors.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees can vary significantly based on the course, time of day, day of the week, and season. Some reviews mention rates around $200, especially for peak times.Reddit It's best to check the official Whirlwind Golf Club website or GolfNow for current rates and to book tee times.Reddit

Absolutely. Whirlwind Golf Club is a popular destination, and booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend play or during peak golf season.Reddit

The golf courses typically open early in the morning and close at dusk. The clubhouse and pro shop hours may vary, so it's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.

Keep an eye on the Whirlwind Golf Club website and platforms like GolfNow for potential deals, packages, or twilight rates that can offer savings.Reddit

While walking might be an option, golf carts are commonly used and often included or available for rent. Some reviews highlight the quality of the carts.Reddit

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

Both courses were designed by Gary Panks. Cattail is known for its challenging layout with desert hazards and wide fairways, while Devil's Claw offers a distinct Southwest golf experience, blending seamlessly into the natural desert landscape.TikTok

Pace of play can vary. Some visitors report quick rounds (around 3.5 hours) on weekdays,Reddit while others have experienced significant delays, especially on weekends or during busy periods.Reddit Course marshals are sometimes present to help manage flow.

Yes, Whirlwind Golf Club boasts excellent practice facilities, including a large driving range and putting greens, perfect for warming up before your round.Reddit

The courses are set in a landscaped desert environment with stunning views of the Sierra Estrella Mountains, offering a picturesque backdrop for your game.Reddit

While both courses offer challenges, they are generally playable for golfers of various skill levels. The wider fairways on Cattail can be forgiving, but desert hazards require strategic play. Beginners might find it beneficial to play with more experienced golfers or focus on enjoying the scenery.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Sivlik Grill is a popular spot at Whirlwind Golf Club, offering solid food and a great patio vibe for post-round relaxation and enjoying the scenery.Reddit It's a good place to grab a meal or drinks.

Yes, beverage carts are often available on the course, offering refreshments like Birdie Boost to keep you hydrated and energized during your game.Instagram

Specific dietary options can vary. It's recommended to check the current menu at the Sivlik Grill or inquire with the staff about vegetarian or vegan choices.

While the Sivlik Grill is primarily a sit-down dining experience, it's worth asking if they offer any to-go options for quick snacks or meals.

The Sivlik Grill is described as having a great patio vibe, perfect for soaking in the scenery after a round of golf. It's a relaxed setting to enjoy your meal.

📸 📸 Photography

The stunning desert landscape and mountain views provide numerous photo opportunities. The fairways, greens, and surrounding natural beauty offer picturesque backdrops. Many golfers capture shots of their drives or scenic holes.TikTok

During events like the LPGA Ford Championship, professional golfers may be practicing. While capturing the action is exciting, be mindful of event rules regarding photography and respect the players' privacy.TikTokInstagram

While specific 'iconic' holes aren't always highlighted, the overall desert aesthetic and the well-maintained courses themselves are visually appealing. The mountain vistas are a consistent photographic draw.Reddit

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' often provides the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape and golf course photography, enhancing the desert colors.Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at golf courses for safety and privacy reasons. It's essential to check the club's policy on drones before attempting to fly one.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Whirlwind Golf Club can be a great outing for families, especially if you have golf enthusiasts. The Cattail Course offers a visually appealing environment with wide fairways that might be more forgiving for less experienced players. The stunning desert scenery provides a beautiful backdrop for a family outing.TikTok

Consider booking a tee time during a less busy period, like a weekday morning, to ensure a more relaxed pace and enjoyable experience for everyone. The Sivlik Grill offers a pleasant spot for a family meal after the game.Reddit While the courses are designed for golf, the scenic beauty and the novelty of playing in a desert landscape can be engaging for older children interested in the sport.

💰 Budget Travelers

Whirlwind Golf Club is generally considered a premium golf destination, so it might not be the first choice for the strictest budget travelers. However, there are ways to make it more accessible. Look for deals on GolfNow or other booking platforms, as these can sometimes offer significant discounts on green fees.Reddit

Playing during off-peak hours, such as twilight rounds, can also lead to lower rates. While the $200 green fee mentioned in some reviews is on the higher end,Reddit exploring different booking options and times can help find more budget-friendly tee times. Consider playing just one course if budget is a primary concern.

🏌️ Avid Golfers

For serious golfers, Whirlwind Golf Club offers a fantastic opportunity to play two distinct, championship-caliber courses designed by Gary Panks. The Cattail Course is renowned for its challenging layout and pristine conditions, while Devil's Claw provides a unique desert golf experience.TikTok The fact that it hosts LPGA events like the Ford Championship speaks volumes about its quality and playability.TikTokInstagram

Take advantage of the excellent practice facilities, including the driving range and putting greens, to warm up properly. Be prepared for the desert conditions and the strategic demands of the courses. Reading up on course strategies or even considering a caddy if available can enhance your experience on these well-regarded layouts.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Two Gary Panks Masterpieces: Cattail vs. Devil's Claw

Whirlwind Golf Club boasts two distinct 18-hole courses, both masterfully designed by Gary Panks. The Cattail Course is often described as a challenging yet fair test of golf. It features wide fairways that can be forgiving, but strategically placed desert hazards and fast, true greens demand precision and thoughtful shot-making.TikTokReddit The layout is known for its beauty, seamlessly integrating with the natural desert environment.

Complementing Cattail is the Devil's Claw Course, which offers a unique Southwest golf experience. This course is designed to embrace the rugged beauty of the desert, providing a different set of challenges and visual appeal. While specific details on Devil's Claw are less frequently highlighted in social media clips compared to Cattail, it's equally praised for its integration with the landscape and its quality as a championship-level golf destination.TikTok Both courses are designed to be memorable and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels, though they present distinct strategic considerations.

When choosing between the two, consider your playing style. Cattail might appeal to those who appreciate a blend of openness and hazard management, while Devil's Claw offers a more immersive desert golf adventure. Many visitors aim to play both to experience the full offering of Whirlwind Golf Club.Reddit

Playing Host to the Pros: The LPGA Ford Championship

Whirlwind Golf Club, particularly the Cattail Course, has gained significant recognition as a venue for professional golf, notably hosting the LPGA Ford Championship.TikTokInstagram This event brings the world's best female golfers to Chandler, Arizona, showcasing the course's championship pedigree. Seeing professionals like Nelly Korda,TikTok Charley Hull,Instagram+1 and Brooke Henderson Instagram navigate the fairways and greens provides a unique perspective on the course's challenges and beauty.

For golf enthusiasts, experiencing a course that hosts such prestigious tournaments is a major draw. It offers a chance to play where the pros play, test your game against a layout designed for elite competition, and witness the skill involved in professional golf firsthand. The presence of the LPGA event highlights the immaculate conditioning and strategic design that Whirlwind Golf Club offers.TikTokInstagram

If you're planning a visit around the Ford Championship, expect a vibrant atmosphere and potentially larger crowds. However, even outside of tournament dates, the knowledge that you're playing on a professional tour venue adds an extra layer of excitement to the Whirlwind Golf Club experience.

Navigating Pace of Play and Course Marshall Experiences

While Whirlwind Golf Club is celebrated for its beautiful courses and friendly staff, a recurring theme in reviews relates to the pace of play.Reddit Some visitors have reported lengthy rounds, taking up to 2.5 hours for just nine holes, with a lack of course marshals to help manage the flow.Reddit This can be particularly frustrating when paying premium green fees.

One detailed review highlighted a particularly negative encounter with a course marshal who was perceived as aggressive and contradictory to instructions from the starter.Reddit This experience underscores the importance of clear communication between staff members and a consistent approach to managing player groups. While most reviews are positive, this aspect of the on-course experience can significantly impact a visitor's enjoyment.

To mitigate potential issues, consider booking tee times during less busy periods, such as weekday mornings.Reddit If you encounter slow play, politely inquire about the situation with the clubhouse or a visible staff member. Understanding that course marshals are there to ensure a good experience for all players, while also advocating for your own enjoyment, is key.

You may also like