tourist spot la union

25 LA UNION TOURIST SPOTS & Things to Do

Hailed as the Surfing Capital of the North , La Union takes pride in its monster swells that hug its shores for most of the year. Along with Siargao and Baler, “Elyu” , as regulars fondly call it, completes the holy trinity of Philippine surfing. The province’s reputation as a wave rider’s playground has been well documented in various publications; it’s pretty much common knowledge.

But there is so much more to La Union than its waves. Sprinkled throughout the province are a diverse set of attractions that have been largely overlooked. From historic manmade sites like Baluarte Watch Tower and Pindangan Ruins to other natural wonders like Tangadan Falls and Immuki Island, here are other noteworthy places to visit and things to do that will make you fall in love even deeper with La Union.

Note: Here are La Union’s travel requirements for tourists . But because travel policies and opening hours often change, please check the official websites or Facebook pages for the latest announcements first before going.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN LA UNION

Urbiztondo Surfing

Okay, let’s get this out of the way first since it would be a grave crime to not include surfing in this list.

The best time to surf is from July to March. Whether you’re a seasoned rider, an excited beginner or simply a spectator, surfing is inescapable here. Surfboard rentals and surfing lessons are everywhere. Rates vary depending on the season (peak and off-peak).

Surfing Lesson Rates: P350-500 (1 hour, with surfboard and instructors); P200-250 (surfboard rental only). Surfing Season: July to October (South Swell); November to March (North Swell)

San Juan Food Trip

For non-surfers, San Juan offers another type of trip — the delicious kind! The food here is enough to compel us to visit La Union again and again. The food scene here is alive and kicking. There’s just a lot to discover and there’s always something new. Every time we visit, we try numerous joints, yet it always seems like we’re barely scratching the surface. But it’s okay because it means that we have more reasons to visit again.

Whether you are on a budget or in the mood to splurge, San Juan has a lot to offer. Our favorites so far are the following:

• MASA Bakehouse – Try their shakshouka and Manong Benny (Eggs Benedict)
• Gefseis Greek Grill – chicken souvlaki and moussaka
• Mad Monkeys – smoky BBQ bacon burger
• Tagpuan – goto and lugaw
• Dampa sa San Juan – mixed seafood
• Sabong Chicken – honey bagoong fried chicken
• Kabsat – beef kare-kare and shrimp in crab fat
• Nak Nak – crispy pork kare-kare and beef sisig
• Makai Bowls – surfer’s bowl

Aside from the restaurants, San Juan also harbors cafés where you can just enjoy a cup of your favorite coffee concoction while chilling and vibing with your friends! There are excellent homegrown coffee shops offering local coffee blends and other beverages. We’ve tried the offerings El Union Coffee and Clean Beach Coffee .

We’ll be publishing a separate article about the various food places around San Juan soon, so watch out for that.

Tangadan Falls

Nestled in the mountainous area of San Gabriel, Tangadan Falls is probably the most famous of the many cascades in the province. Baroro River flows down two tiers, each with its own natural pool. The whole place is surrounded by smooth limestone cliffs and peppered with boulders.

During the rainy season, the lower tier produces twin cascades. The cold water is refreshing after the 15-minute trek down from the jump-off point. If you are not a confident swimmer, you can rent a life vest or just swim in the shallow parts. Avoid the mossy rocks because they are very slippery, but if you can’t avoid them, be extra careful. For the adventurous, you can go cliff jumping!

The way back to the jump-off point entails ascending trails and taking numerous concrete steps. Although there are rest stops, it might still be challenging for seniors and those with mobility problems.

No tour guide, no entry policy. You also need to present the official receipt (OR) issued by the Municipal Treasury Office before you can enter the Tangadan Falls vicinity. The office is located beside the San Gabriel Police Station.

Location: Barangay Amontoc, San Gabriel, La Union Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily) Fees: P30/head (Environmental Fee); P500 (Guide Fee); P60 (Life Vest Rental) Habal-Habal Fare: P400 (Roundtrip, 1 pax); P600 (Roundtrip, 2 pax). The trip is from Municipal Treasury Office to Tangadan Falls Trailhead.

Immuki Island

Accessible after a 30-minute drive from San Juan, Immuki Island is perfect for those who are looking for new adventures in La Union. Off the coast of Barangay Paraoir, it is a rocky paradise adorned with mangroves and carved with three picturesque lagoons.

The lagoons have steady and clear but deep waters, perfect for swimming and cliff diving. You can even see fish swimming! However, note that there are shallow areas and there are also deep areas. The deep parts of the lagoons range from eight (8) to twelve (12) feet in depth. Moreover, put on protective footwear like aqua shoes because the rocks and corals are sharp.

To access Immuki Island, you need to register at the barangay hall. There’s a designated parking lot if you are bringing your car. From here, there are two ways of reaching the island — by treading the waters during low tide and by riding a balsa during high tide. Barangay Paraoir boasts an abundance of sea urchins, so you might spot some on the way to the island.

You cannot bring food and drinks to the island, but you can use one of the cottages along the beach if you are planning to have your lunch there. There are shops, showers and changing cubicles, but they are very basic. Bring your own toiletries and towels too.

Location: Barangay Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily) Fees: P20/head (Environmental Fee); P250 (Balsa Rental, Good for 5-7 pax); P10 (Shower Fee); Donation-Type (Cottage)

Bauang Grape Farms

The town of Bauang boasts hectare upon hectare of vineyards and grape farms. Overshadowed by the beaches and waves of the neighboring towns, the grape-picking activity in Bauang is certainly an underrated attraction in the province. But timing is everything here because grapes are seasonal. Luckily for us, we visited in March, just in time for the grape-picking season!

Along the long stretch of MacArthur Highway, from TPLEX going to San Fernando and San Juan, we noticed several people with posters that read: “Grape Picking” or “Grape Farm/Grape Picking”. We didn’t know whether or not they are legit, so we went straight to Lomboy Grape Farm ‘s Uvas Café and inquired there. We chose it because the founder of Lomboy Farm is the pioneer of grape farming in the region, credited for introducing the industry to La Union.

After registering, we were led to the partner grape farm (Danny Ancheta’s Grapes Farm). The team actually enjoyed our time picking grapes and sampling local grape wine, fruit wine, and natural fruit juice concentrate — Mangosteen, Blueberry, and Guyabano.

Best Grape-Picking Months: March to May (Dry Season) Fees: P25/head (Registration/Entrance Fee); P350/kilo (Grape Picking Activity); P25 (Parking Fee) Established Grape Farms: Lomboy Grape Farms, Gapuz Grapes Farm, Danny Ancheta’s Grapes Farm, Manguerra Grapes Farm, Calica Grapes Farm, Acosta Grapes Farm, and others

SAN JUAN Tourist Spots

Urbiztondo beach & sunset.

This is where it all started! More than half of Elyu’s income is generated in San Juan, particularly from the Urbizondo area where accommodations and dining places mushroomed between the 2000s and 2010s. This is La Union’s tourism hub.

From its wide bed of sand to its spectacular sunset, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here even if you’re not interested in surfing at all. The shore is lined with restaurants and cafes, making it a favorite hangout place for sunbathers, foodies, and sunset lovers. The area is also a popular spot for nightlife and beach parties.

Urbiztondo Beach is the best area to stay in La Union because of its proximity to the beach and the highway as well as its wide array of dining options. Other attractions in La Union are also easily accessible from here. You’ll also find most accommodations here.

If you wish to make Urbiztondo as your base, here are some of your lodging options:

• Urbiz Garden Bed and Breakfast . FB page.
• The Escape San Juan . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Little Surfmaid Resort . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• EL Navi Surftown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Costa Villa Beach Resort . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Surfer’s Point Deck . Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Lotus Valley Farm

NOTE: Lotus Valley Farm remains CLOSED , but we’re including it here on this list in case they decide to open. (The management said they would be opening SOON when we inquired.)

Are you more of a mountain person? Do you prefer peace and quiet? Well, you might want to consider staying at Lotus Valley Farm , a sustainable and eco-friendly nature resort tucked away in the mountainous parts of the popular surf town.

It started in 2009 when owners and environment advocates Toby and Marissa Tamayo purchased hectares of land and transformed it into a verdant and flourishing agro-tourism destination. They created a forest paradise with over 20,000 trees of various kinds (narra, antipolo, molave, etc.) and countless medicinal, ornamental and edible plants. And in the middle, they built bamboo huts, where guests can spend the night.

It also features a lotus flower plant garden, a stream, and a spring that also helps supply water throughout the barangay. Some parts of this hidden gem are not open to the public because they are home to wild bees, bats, and birds, just to name some. The food options offered here are plant-based, farm-to-table types.

Before the pandemic, we had the privilege of touring the farm and experiencing acupuncture detox and sound meditation. We also had a delicious plant-based dinner made from vegetables that were harvested from the farm itself.

Day tour visits were allowed pre-pandemic. But staying overnight in their kubo is another experience. No need for air-conditioning and you’ll get to wake up to the sound of the birds! If you are planning to spend a night here (when they reopen), note that the cellphone signal is rough, so that means away from your gadgets and more time to commune with nature.

If you’re only interested in seeing an expanse of lotus plants, other than Lotus Valley Farm, there are also roadside lotus farms that are publicly accessible in La Union like this one:

There are sunflower farms, too.

Address: Sitio Kasilagan, Dasaya, San Juan, La Union Contact Details: 0942 366 4519 (Mobile Number)

CURMA Center

If you have a heart for marine life conservation or you are just curious about how you can help protect the environment, you might want to check out SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery in San Juan. CURMA (Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions) focuses on the conservation and protection of marine turtles through regular beach patrolling and hatchery management.

Other than that, the organization also partners with other interested parties for coastal clean-ups and pawikan-release events.

The group also conducts information and education campaigns and other advocacies like the “No Plastic” campaign. If you are interested in volunteering or donating, you can visit the headquarters or the official website to learn more.

Address: SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery, 374 Saint Jude Subdivison, Ili Norte, San Juan, La Union Contact Details: 0942 366 4519 (Mobile Number); [email protected] (E-Mail Address); http://sifcare.org/curma (Official Website)

SAN FERNANDO Tourist Spots

Ma cho temple.

The Ma Cho Temple is an iconic cultural landmark in San Fernando. Constructed in 1977, this is said to be the first Taoist temple in the Philippines and is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu (Ma Cho).

Resting atop a hill, it affords a panoramic view of the San Fernando Harbor and the West Philippine Sea. It features the Altar of the Goddess of Ma Cho, the Altar of Our Heavenly Father, the Statues of the 18 Taoist Disciples, the Majestic Five-Door Gate, the Bamboo Garden, the Lian Thing Pagoda, The Goddess of Mercy (Kwan Yen), the Bell and Drum Tower, and its renowned Spider-Type Dome. The temple is open to both worshipers and non-worshipers.

There’s an annual pilgrimage wherein the image of Ma Cho travels from San Fernando to the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay in Taal, Batangas during the 5th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar because many followers believe that Ma Cho and Our Lady of Caysasay are one and the same.

Address: Ma Cho Temple, Quezon Avenue, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official website or Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: FREE

Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda

Also sitting on top of a hill, this Friendship Pagoda is a commemoration of the neighborly relations between the Filipinos and the Chinese people. It provides a scenic view of the city of San Fernando and the sea beyond.

At its feet lies a park where locals can just hang and unwind. (When we visited, locals stayed here to escape the heat and just chill.)

There are two entry points to the pagoda. The easier route is at the top where the signage is located, while the other one entails a short trek up from the public park entrance below.

One of the landmarks is the La Union Provincial Capitol building, located just a few meters away from the pagoda.

Address: Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda, Aguila Road, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Pindangan Ruins

Constructed in 1764 under the Spanish rule, the Pindanagan Ruins is what’s left of the first ever Catholic church of San Fernando — mostly the age-old stone walls and the buttresses.

Adjacent to the Carmelite Monastery, this historical landmark is managed and maintained by the Carmelite sisters.

Please avoid leaning on or climbing up the walls for your safety and for the preservation of the ruins.

Address: Pindangan, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the latest announcement first before going. Entrance Fee: P25 (Regular); P20 (Senior/Student); P500 (Photo Shoot and Video Shoot)

Halo-halo de Iloko

It is hot in La Union, especially in the dry, summer months. No wonder halo-halo is especially popular in the region. And when it comes to this dessert/snack, no other name in San Fernando can beat Halo-halo de Iloko (at least in terms of recall). It is said that the ingredients they use are fresh every day and are mostly sourced from local suppliers.

They also serve rice meals and snacks, but we ordered all three halo-halo items on their menu — Fiesta Halo-Halo (P120), Buko Halo-Halo (P195), and Pritong Halo-Halo (P150). The first two capture the taste of classic halo-halo we are all familiar with. (Don’t expect mind-blowing twists or special or unusual ingredients.)

What we enjoyed the most, however, was the pritong halo-halo, which is very different from the typical halo-halo fix. In this creative take, ingredients like bananas are served hot and stacked with ubeng halaya, cheese and other ingredients. The cherry on top is a nice touch, too. If you could order just one, make it this one.

Confidently marketed as La Union’s best, Halo-Halo de Iloko is usually crowded during peak hours. It is quite popular among locals and tourists alike. When we visited, we came before the peak hours so we were able to find a table. Before we finished our halo-halo, there was already a line of customers waiting outside. And it was mid-week!

By the way, if you are traveling by private car, the designated parking lot is far. We had a hard time securing a slot, so we opted to go for a pay-parking slot, which was a five-minute tricycle ride from Halo-Halo de Iloko.

Address: Zandueta Street, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going.

Christ the Redeemer Statue

San Fernando’s hilly terrain provides perfect sites for landmark structures such as the Ma Cho Temple and the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda. Besides these two, another significant hilltop landmark is the 25-foot Christ the Redeemer statue. Inaugurated in June 2007, the statue symbolizes overflowing gratitude, blessings, and protection.

We actually didn’t plan on making a stop here. We stumbled upon it by chance while looking for parking space, so we just decided to spend a bit of time here. It can be accessed by climbing a pretty steep alley in a concealed part of town.

It can get really hot at noon, so if you are planning to reach the top on foot, go here early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Anyway, it overlooking the city proper and the San Fernando Bay to the west, so it’s best to visit in late afternoon for the sunset.

Address: Reservoir Hill, Barangay I, San Fernando City, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Thunderbird Poro Point Resort

Located at the highest point of Poro Point Peninsula and facing the San Fernando Bay, Thunderbird Poro Point encompasses a land area of about 65 hectares, housing luxurious villas, restaurants, wellness facilities, and a nine-hole golf course.

The resort’s impeccable Santorini-inspired theme and the sheer look-and-feel of the place do give off an exclusive vibe, which some may find intimidating. (We were kinda intimidated at first. LOL.) But day trip visitors are welcome here. The P300 entrance fee is consumable and is inclusive of access to some of the dining options and to explore and take photos in some areas, including the resort’s symbolic Santorini dome.

Pre-pandemic, day tour hours were from 8:00 AM to 5:00 pm. However, when we visited, we were told it would open at 11am. (They might have referred to the restaurant and we just misunderstood.) Anyway, we decided to just return past 11am. Unfortunately, it was really hot at the time. The sun was scorching and the white surroundings were blinding, so we weren’t able to explore much. We could have melted if we stayed any longer. So if you can, visit in the late afternoon, when the sun is less harsh.

We still had a grand time, though, because the resort is just gorgeous!

Address: Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando City, La Union Day Tour Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). Reservation is required at least 24 hours before arrival. Day Tour Entrance: P300/head (F&B consumable). If you want to access the swimming pool, check the official website or Facebook page for day tour package promos.

Poro Point Lighthouse

A short drive north of Thunderbird Resort, Poro Point Lighthouse is one of La Union’s historical landmarks, dating back to 1905 during the American occupation. Facing the West Philippine Sea, it rises at the height of 27 feet and serves as one of the points of interest in the Poro Point Freeport Zone.

Since it’s located just across Poro Point Baywalk, many locals include this spot in their walking, jogging, or cycling routes both in the morning and in the late afternoon (just in time for the sunset!)

Address: Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando City, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

NORTHERN LA UNION Tourist Spots

Paraoir manmade forest.

If you’re going to Luna and you’re coming from San Juan, San Fernando or Immuki Island, you’ll be passing under its green canopy!

Dressing a significant portion of the Bacnotan-Luna-Balaoan Road, the long stretch of towering canopies creates a natural green tunnel, mesmerizing numerous travelers. People usually park their vehicles on the side of the road to take photos. It’s very similar to the mahogany forest in Bohol.

If you are planning to stop and take photos too, just remember that this is a major road, so make sure that you park your car properly to avoid obstructing the traffic and be careful when taking photos.

Nalvo Pebble Beach

Looking for unusual beaches in La Union? You need not go far because just 30-45 minutes away from San Juan is the town of Luna!

While the beaches of San Juan are strewn with relatively fine sand, Luna’s shore is covered in pebbles. The most popular part of this long stretch is the Nalvo Pebble Beach. You’ll find a number of resorts here, but it’s best known for the art galleries that punctuate it — Bahay na Bato, Bato de Luna, and Kamay na Bato. After exploring the beach, visit one or all of these art galleries and appreciate the pebble works and structures.

Location: Nalvo Norte and Nalvo Sur, Luna, La Union

Baluarte Watchtower

The Baluarte Watchtower , also called Luna Watchtower , is one of the five historic watchtowers in La Union declared by the National Museum of the Philippines as cultural treasures in 2014. This centuries-old structure served as a lookout tower for invading enemies such as Chinese, Japanese, and Moro pirates.

Today, the restored brick tower is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Luna. It also stands just next to the pebble beach, making it snap-worthy from almost any angle. (Well, not during our visit because an event was set to be staged at the site.)

If you get hungry, you can grab a drink and meal at nearby Lola Mending’s Cafe . Don’t forget to try the Baluarte Supreme churros , which takes the shape of the watchtower!

Address: Barangay Victoria, Luna, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Bahay na Bato

This extensive art gallery used to be the vacation house of Dr. Edison and Dr. Purita Chan-Noble. Situated on the pebble beach of Barangay Nalvo Norte, the property is mostly built using pebbles and stones.

The first things you’ll probably notice are the statues scattered throughout the site. They vary greatly in terms of theme and design, but our favorites are those whimsical and almost tongue-in-cheek artworks that show the artist’s sense of humor.

The indoor galleries also showcase Filipino artifacts. In between two houses lies a garden, adorned with trees, giving life to the seemingly cold and hard environment and giving visitors shaded sanctuary away from the burning sun.

The whole place caters to guests of all ages and boasts various Instagrammable photo spots. The property is also open for prenuptial shoots and other themed photoshoots.

If you want to maximize and enjoy your visit, avoid going during noon time when the sun is too merciless. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to go.

Address: Bahay na Bato, Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: P50 (Regular); FREE (Below 2 y/o)

Bato de Luna

Can’t get enough of the pebble-lous installations and artworks? Bato de Luna is not too far from Bahay na Bato. Actually, from the main road (Bacnotan-Luna-Balaoan Road), when you make a turn on the barangay road leading to the art galleries, the first property you’ll see is Bato de Luna to your right.

You know you’re at the right place when you’re greeted by a gigantic statue of a turtle, made of, you guessed it, stones and pebbles! This is the site’s most prominent structure, which houses an interactive optical illusion floor painting, textured colorful walls filled with artworks, and a painted ceiling.

Bato de Luna puts on the spotlight the works of South Korean stone artist and sculptor, Mr. Bong Kim (whom I think is also the same creative mind behind some of the pieces at neighboring Bahay na Bato). Other attractions are quirky and naughty stone figures and colorful photo spots.

It also has a restaurant that offers breakfast meals as well as ‘unli rice’ and ‘unli sabaw’ meal options. You can also buy pasalubong from the souvenir shop.

Address: Bato de Luna, Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: P50 (Regular)

Darigayos Beach

Compared to other beaches in the municipality of Luna, Darigayos Beach is not pebbly, but the cream-colored sand is not powdery fine either. Locals and some tourists still flock to the beach because the waves here are relatively calmer. There are parts that are shallow, but there are also parts that are deep, so always be on your guard and familiarize yourself with the beachscape first.

Choose a spot that you feel most comfortable swimming in. Open huts and cottages are available for rent.

Location: Darigayos Beach, Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Road, Luna, La Union

SOUTHERN LA UNION Tourist Spots

Ciano umok gallery & cafe ilocano.

NOTE: Ciano Umok might still be temporarily CLOSED for now. We’re trying to determine whether or not they are open but we have yet to receive confirmation. But we’ll still put this in the list just in case it opens soon.

We’ve already mentioned Bauang’s grape farms, but there are still plenty of other attractions on the southern end of the province. Also in Bauang is Ciano Umok Gallery & Cafe .

Nestled right smack in the middle of the hilly Barangay Palugsi-Limmansangan, the place functions as an art gallery and a restaurant. The gallery showcases the works of the owner, Cesar Dumo, and other local artists.

If you get hungry, try one of the homemade meals and snacks at the gallery’s in-house Cafe Ilocano . Usually, people stop here for halo-halo. Its version is a bit unusual, carrying only three ingredients — nata, kaong, and red mongo. Another unique thing about it is instead of ice and milk, they top it with something similar to ice cream. It’s like milk-flavored shaved ice that you can eat right away. You can totally skip the halo part.

Address: Barangay Palugsi-Limmansangan, Bauang, La Union Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going.

Agoo Eco Fun World

South of Bauang is the town of Agoo, named after the wispy Agoho trees that grow abundantly in the area. In fact, the highway leading to the town center is lined with these towering trees.

Launched in 2014, the Agoo Eco Fun World in Barangay Santa Rita West was developed by the local government and is part of reforestation efforts of the DENR. Locals and tourists alike are drawn to its enchanting manmade forest featuring thousands of Agoho trees, a lagoon, the view of Mount Katayagan, and the beach that faces the Lingayen Gulf.

The whole place is picture-worthy, making it one of the popular destinations for photoshoots. Visitors can also rent picnic huts at the beach area, spread their own mats, or pitch their own tents.

Some of the things to do here are having a picnic, nature bathing, swimming, sunbathing, watching the sunset, kiteflying, jogging, walking, appreciating the mangroves, and doing ‘aura’ photo sessions. Please clean up after yourself if you are planning to have a picnic here.

The best time to go is early morning when the sun is still not too high and late afternoon if you want to catch the sunset.

Address: Agoo Eco Fun World, Barangay Santa Rita West, Agoo, La Union Environmental Fee: P15 (Adults); P10 (Senior & PWD); FREE (Children below 3ft) Parking Fee: P10 (Tricycle & Motorcycle); P20 (Other Vehicles) Rental Fees: P500 (Big Cottage); P1,500 (Pavilion) Commercial Photoshoot/Videoshoot: P2,000

Agoo Basilica

Founded in 1578 by the Franciscan order, Agoo Basilica , officially named Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity , was first dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. The current Mexocan-Baroque structure dates back to 1975, but it was officially opened to the public in 1978.

After the destructive earthquake of 1990, the 19th-century bell tower was destroyed and the church had to undergo a major reconstruction. However, the bell tower was beyond repair and had to be replaced by a new one.

The present-day minor basilica has two bell towers, doors with Hebrew-script carvings of the ten commandments, a pipe organ, and an underground cemetery and chapel where it also houses holy relics of saints. It is the seat of the Santa Monica Parish of the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Fernando de La Union.

Address: Grotto Road corner MacArthur Highway, Poblacion, Agoo, La Union

PUGAD Pugo Adventure

Situated further inland, far from the coastal towns of La Union, Pugo’s forested and mountainous landscape is a perfect ‘nest’ for PUGAD Pugo Adventure , a very popular leisure and adventure park. Sharing its border with Baguio , the town is blessed with relatively cooler temperature.

It prides itself on being the first to offer zipline adventure in La Union. Other features include a botanical garden, mini zoological park, and swimming pools! Aside from ziplining, guests can also ride ATVs, try the Giant Swing, play Paintball, or do wall climbing.

Although it’s far from the city and major highways, the park is still accessible via public transportation. If you are driving your own car, you can access it via Agoo-Baguio Road (Jose D. Aspiras Highway), then turning to PUGAD Trail. There’s a huge signage directing guests to that road.

Address: PUGAD Pugo Adventure, Pugo, La Union Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: P200 (Adults); P150 (Kids 4ft below); FREE (Kids 2ft below). The rates include access to the swimming pools. Activities: P250-400 (Zipline 1-3); P350/head (ATV); P150/head (Wall Climbing); P250/head (Giant Swing); P250/head (Australian Rundown); P400/head (Paintball). You can also avail of the package options. Check the official Facebook page for the inclusions per package.

Top La Union Resorts and Hotels

If you wish to explore most of La Union, the town of San Juan and the city of San Fernando are the best areas for your base. Both are located at the center of the province. From either, you can easily reach most of the attractions listed above.

We stayed at Urbiz Garden , a beachfront bed-and-breakfast in Urbiztondo, San Juan. I always stay here because of its location, between the highway and the beach.

But if you’d rather stay at a hotel, hostel or resort, here are some of the top properties that can be booked via Agoda.

• The Escape , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Aureo Resort La Union , San Fernando. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• P and M Final Option Hotel , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Circle Hostel – La Union , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Awesome Hotel La Union , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Little Surfmaid Resort , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• G Hotel La Union , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point , San Fernando. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• EL Navi Surftown , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more La Union Resorts!

Written by Asta Alvarez Photos by Yosh Dimen Additional words by Yosh Dimen & Mariah Cruz Additional photos by Mariah Cruz & Pycan Leynes 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣2️⃣ • 4️⃣ • 1️⃣6️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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BEST La Union Tourist Spots and Activities Aside from Surfing

12. Red Clay Pagdamilian

11. pindangan ruins, 10. gapuz grapes farm.

• 9. Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery

8. PUGAD Pugo Adventure

7. baluarte watch tower, 6. namacpacan church, 5. immuki island, 4. ma-cho temple (taoist temple), 3. poro point and lighthouse, 2. tangadan falls, 1. urbiztondo beach in san juan.

Known as the “Surfing Capital of the North, the beaches of Barangay Urbiztondo in San Juan is one of the tourist spots in La Union, but there’s more to the province than just surfing in the Philippines . It also has centuries-old churches, heritage sites, natural attractions such as the Tangadan Falls, and a thriving local arts scene along with agri-tourism farms that are open to the public. You won't run out of things to do in La Union.

• Aside from surfing, check out other rainy season activities in the Philippines
• See our Manila to La Union bus packages  and our La Union day tour packages
• Find other day tours from Manila
• See other destinations for a road trip near Manila

If you’re planning on joining any La Union tours and are looking for what to do in La Union or where to go in La Union, take a look at some of the best La Union tourist spots and beaches near Manila on your next trip up to the northern coasts of Luzon.   

See our popular La Union Tours and Activities

La union shared day tour from manila to thunderbird resort, san juan beach, baluarte watch tower, 2-day surfing town la union shared tour package with accommodations & transfers, off-the-beaten-path 3-day la union shared tour package from manila with hotel.

The word “damili” translates to “the art of pottery making” in the Ilocano language and is the root word for the name Red Clay Pagdamilian, a popular pottery studio and shop that showcases local talent with beautiful pottery and other souvenir items for sale. But more than the pottery on display, what makes it one of the famous tourist attractions in La Union is that for a small fee, anyone can handle the clay and mold their very own one-of-a-kind souvenir clay item from scratch. 

• See our top La Union tours

The hands-on pottery lesson for visitors is such a big hit that it became the focal point of the shop, with local and foreign visitors flocking to the studio to create their own vessels and other pottery designs. It became a venue for visitors to release their artistic talents or a a creative outlet for participants to express their personality. The clay can be molded into useful shapes with a practical purposes or into decorative items to be displayed around the house such as clay pots, food storage, and mugs, to name a few. 

The pottery and souvenir shop can be found along the National Highway on Barangay La Union.

The ruins is one of the top places to visit in La Union and refers to the remains of a church built by Augustinian priests in the late 1700s during the Spanish colonial period, while Pindangan, an Ilocano word which translates to “a place for drying fish,” is where local inhabitants used to lay out salted fish to dry out in the sun, a process of preserving and curing meat that the town of San Fernando is known for to this day.

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What remains of the church are formidable walls and buttresses. During the early years of Spanish era, the church was vulnerable to pirate attacks and foreign invasion because of its location near the coastal areas by the sea, and the clergy decided to move the town’s place of worship to another location. The Pindangan church was abandoned and left to decay until it an earthquake that took place sometime in the 1800’s destroyed it and it has remained to its present state.

The Pindangan Ruins are currently looked after by the Carmelite Sisters, who live in a monastery within the property. The ruins are preserved in its original condition or kept in a state of “arrested decay”. This historical structure stands near Camp Oscar Florendo, just 500 M from the National Highway. 

When tourists visit La Union, one of the first things that typically comes to mind is the beach. Most visitors associate the town with surfing, swimming under the heat of the sun, and enjoying the tropical weather. But what most travelers don't know is that La Union is also a top farm tour destination in the Philippines . One of the top farms in La Union is the Gapuz Grapes Farm. 

Grape farm owner Danny Gapuz started planting 100 cuttings of a type of variety called White Malaga and Black Ribier back in the 1980s in his hometown in Barangay Urayong, Bauang, La Union. Although the farm has been around since that time, it wasn’t until 2011 that tourists started to know about it after the Gapuz Farm Facebook page was set up. 

Visitors intrigued by the novelty of picking grapes under the heat of the tropical sun started posting their experiences over social media. You could do that in the Philippines without having to fly to Napa Valley or other places abroad. The farm offers other fun experiences like “The Porch Life” where a group of 10 people could share a meal on a banana leaf called “boodle fight”, while grape picking season is at its peak from March to May. 

9. Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery 

“Kamay na Bato”, a Filipino phrase that translates to “house of stone”, is an art gallery that features various art sculptures carved from stone. This tourist attraction is located along Balaoan Road in Luna, La Union, right next to a pebble beach.

The gallery is owned and curated by Mr. Bong Kim, a Korean national with a fine arts degree. He specialized in sculpture while studying, so its no surprise that many of his own artwork can be found at the gallery. Mr. Kim moved to Luna a few years ago and lived nearby with his wife and children. 

The art gallery includes murals, large stone carvings, mounted stone busts, and paintings of uniquely Filipino images such as seascapes, smiling faces, and exotic animals, and colorful fish. There’s even a painting of Manny Pacquiao near the entrance! Aside from stone carvings, wooden sculptures are also abundant and spread out throughout the property, while a function hall can be rented for a fee.

There is also a well-lit area that displays more paintings, murals, sculptures, 3D artworks, and a shop selling souvenir items. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take lots of pictures of the unique artwork around you.

Adrenaline junkies looking for thrilling experience in La Union will find it at PUGAD Pugo Resort, an adventure park that offers fun activities with a zip lines, giant swing, rappelling, paintball, wall climbing, ATV, and 10 swimming pools. It also has 94 cottages for rent, and facilities for overnight accommodations, along with air-conditioning, cable TV with hot and cold bath.

The resort also has a mini zoo with exotic animals such as various snake breeds, bearcats, exotic birds, and a tiger named Nicole. It has 2 zip lines: the Superman zipline that measures 450 from end to end, and a shorter one that is 250 meters in length that takes 10 seconds to ride. Both provide a great view of the resort and of the surrounding landscape. 

• See other resorts near Manila
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The giant swing is recommended for people who are not afraid of heights because it involves hanging on the side of a cliff with only a harness as support. Don’t forget to bring your bathings suits - with 10 swimming pools to choose from, you’ll never run out of fun activities to do while at PUGAD Resort and Adventure Park. 

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The 400 year old Baluarte Watch Tower was built during the Spanish colonial period and served as a place to warn residents against pirates and foreign looters along the coastal town. The 5.6-meter high round-shaped tower provided strategic a vantage point as a lookout for the Spanish guards to prepare against possible attacks from Japanese, Moro and Chinese invaders during the Spanish era. During WW2, it was also used as a communication tower.

It stands on an embankment along the scenic Pebble Beach in Barangay Victoria, a beach filled with multi-colored stones of various shapes and sizes. This historical landmark has been visited by countless tourists throughout the years and was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2014.

• Read about the best beaches in the Philippines  and other top tourist destinations in the Philippines

The massive fortress was split in half for many years until it finally collapsed in 2015, damaged by the strong winds of typhoon Lando. Restoration efforts started in 2016 and was finally completed in 2017, where it can now be seen with its walls fused together with a combination of the centuries-old adobe-coral stones with newer, lighter-colored red bricks.

This Roman Catholic church is also known as The Santa Catalina de Alejandria Church and is located in Luna, La Union. Established in 1690, the church is placed under the advocacy of Saint Catherine of Alexandria and is the site where the wooden image of the Blessed Virgin Mary can be found.

The venerated image is formally called Our Lady of Namacpacan, locally known as “Apo Baket”. Several miracles are attributed to the image, and it attracts many devotees and Marian followers. A patroness of Ilocano travellers, the image stands at 6 feet and 4 inches, making it the tallest known statue of its kind in the country. 

The structure is one of the Philippines’ National Cultural Treasures. The Namacpacan Church is an Earthquake Baroque church, a style of architecture found the the country as a way to combat the destructive forces of earthquakes that many Luzon structures suffered during the 17th to 18th century, within the Spanish colonial period. The church features buttresses and thick walls, a ceremonial archway, rounded pediments, and a white facade typical of Baroque architecture.  

Immuki island is made up of a series of smalls lagoons filled with pools of water held together by corals. It has three crystal clear pools that are perfect to dip into on a hot, sunny day. Located in Barangay Paraoir in Balaoan, La Union, it is the type of place for visitors looking for a quiet, natural environment that is away from the usual crowd of noisy tourists. 

Getting there is an adventure in itself: from San Juan, La Union, you will make your way to McArthur Highway and then make a turn toward Bacnotan town via the Bacnotan-Luna-Balaoan Road and head toward Balaoan town. Follow the coastal road toward Luna until reaching Barangay Paraoir. 

Before entering Immuki island, you will need to register at the barangay hall near the Paraoir National Highschool and then follow a paved pathway toward a beach. From the beach, you will wade through roughly 250 meters distance to reach one of the lagoons in Immuki island. Walking past the shallow water is possible in the low tide - otherwise, a raft may be rented nearby.

Bring aqua slippers to protect your feet from sharp corals, and enjoy the turquoise pools with water so clear you don’t need a snorkeling mask to see the reef fish. This hidden paradise won’t stay hidden for long as it is already attracting many local tourists.

The Ma-Cho Temple’s architecture cuts a striking image across the La Union skyline. Nestled on top of a hill at an elevation of 70 above sea level along Quezon Avenue in San Fernando, the highest point offers a panoramic view of the West Philippine Sea and San Fernando harbor. It is the first Taoist temple in the Philippines that was built in 1975 to honor the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu.

The magnificent temple is an 11-tiered attraction with interiors filled with Chinese decorations and Taiwanese art, and its most popular attraction is the Spider Dome, a structure that features 13 tiers of interlinking wooden carvings of images of saints. Other colorful attractions to visit include the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower, Bamboo Garden, Lian Thing Pagoda, and the Majestic Five Door Gate. Other awe-inspiring structures such as two circular pools and other beautifully designed edifices made up of Chinse themes and motifs of lions, dragons, and deities.

The Taoist temple is a place of worship and welcomes anyone regardless of religious affiliation, race or creed. Visitors are encouraged to meditate and find solace in this magnificently designed place of worship. 

Poro Point is a coastal landform on an elevated point of land that extends about 3.2KM into the West Philippine Sea. Historically called the San Fernando Point, it is found along the boundary of San Fernando bay near the international seaport. Its most striking features are the white cliffs found along it western coastline with the peninsula overlooking the Lingayen Gulf that extends up to Santiago Island in Bolinao.

• See Santorini-inspired resorts in the Philippines

Poro Point’s location makes it the ideal site for navigational purposes, and this is why it has been used as a navigational aid since 1885, with the Lighthouse as its main point of reference. Built during the Spanish colonial period, the Lighthouse is a cylindrical tower made of French prefabricated steel that stands 6 meters in height. 

The lighthouse was converted into US reservation during the American colonial period, but the original structure was replaced in 1979 with a concert tower that stands 38 meters tall. In 1991, the former American facility was returned back to the Philippine government, and the lighthouse became the headquarters of the Philippine Navy, and the station named as Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar.

Located in the town of San Gabriel, La Union, Tangadan Falls is a two-tier waterfall that flows into the Baroro River, with the water coming in from the Cordillera Mountain Ranges. The lower cascade of the falls has a width of 100 feet and a 40 foot drop, with a natural catch basin pool that is great for a quick dip on a hot summer’s day.

The upper cascade has a shorter waterfall with a deeper pool basin which is ideal for jumping off the side of the cliff. Of the two, the lower cascade features a more majestic and dramatic waterfall and is widely photographed for its striking image. The cold spring water is a refreshing respite from heat and a welcome break after the scenic trek en route to the waterfall. 

Wear sturdy walking shoes along with your swimsuit on your visit to Tangadan Falls, because you’ll be doing some light trekking along the way. There’s an option to go on a one hour trek and another one where you can be dropped off at the trailhead of the falls in San Gabriel, a relatively shorter 20 minute walk to the falls. 

Urbiztondo Beach is one of the San Juan, La Union tourist spots and is known as the Surfing Capital of Northern Philippines, with surfing seasons typically falling July to October and November to March. This area of La Union has a reputation for having the country’s most consistent waves, and thriving surf culture has flourished in recent years. Many places offer surfing lessons for all levels, and numerous places of lodging can also be found throughout the coastline. Surfboards are available for rent throughout the area as well.

• See resorts in La Union and other  beach resorts near Manila
• Read about the top La Union restaurants

Beginners typically start having lessons in Bacnotan because the waves  in the area are not too big, which is perfect for novice learners or anyone who have never tried surfing before. The more advanced surfers usually go to Urbiztondo and the neighboring town of Mona Lisa Point. 

Travel to the Surfing Town of La Union and Explore Its Tourist Spots

From 400-year-old fortresses to centuries-old churches, La Union has its fair share of national historical treasures that make this coastal surf town a wonderful place to visit. It is also a place where talented artists thrive, with pottery makers sharing their space with curious visitors who want to try their hand in shaping clay. 

Museums and spaces that inspire art are abundant among the La Union tourists spots featured in this list. Residents of La Union have managed to set up a unique agri-tourism industry like grape-picking that continue to attract local and foreign visitors. 

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For many urban dwellers and Luzon residents, La Union offers some of the best beaches, surfing destinations near Manila, and tourist spots in Luzon . Because it is just a bus or car ride away from Manila, it offers a quick escape from the pressures of city living. The scenic beaches, Philippine resorts , and historical landmarks make it the ideal tourist destination for all ages. 

Start your La Union adventure by booking your Philippine vacation packages  including vacation packages for couples  and 2 days 1 night tour packages in the Philippines with a reputable travel booking website.

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Top 40 La Union Tourist Spots: Surfing Capital of the North

Make your way to La Union’s tourist spots, dubbed as the surfing capital of the northern Philippines. Explore nature, history, and culture rolled into one in this beautiful province.

La Union is one of the best surfing spots in the country. Every summer, thousands of local and foreign visitors troop to its beaches to ride its magnificent waves and enjoy the scenery. But La Union is way more than that.

Unknown to many, La Union hides numerous tourist attractions on its sleeves. Take note. Most of the destinations listed in this article are eco-based and off beaten.

Feel free to recommend some tourist spots in La Union that you’ve visited!

Quick Facts

• Location: Region I/ Ilocos Region
• Municipalities: 19
• Capital: San Fernando City
• Major Languages: Ilocano, Filipino, English, Pangasinan, Kan-kanaey

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Behold La Union Tourist Spots

1. tangadan falls.

Tangadan Falls is one of the most popular eco-based tourist spots in San Juan, La Union. It’s crystal-clear and chilly waters provide a perfect respite for both locals and travelers during summer.

Tangadan Falls has three layers, each with a beautiful pool to offer. The first layer is the highest, measuring around 40 feet high.

If you’re looking for a thrill, you can jump from one of the surrounding cliffs towards the deep part of the pools. Just make sure you know how to swim.

• Entrance Fee: Php 30 per person
• Guide Fee: Php 500 for a group with a maximum of five persons
• Primary Jump-off Point: San Juan, La Union
• Trekking Time: 1 hour
• Opening Time: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

2. Ma Cho Temple

The Ma Cho Temple caters to the small Taoist community of San Fernando. It was built in 1975 in dedication to the Chinese goddess Matzu, known as the protector of the sea. That’s why the temple sits facing the sea.

Numerous Buddha statues of different sizes surround the temple. There are also groves of mango trees. You’re lucky if you arrived during the fruiting season since you can pick fruits for keep.

The temple is one of the best tourist spots in San Fernando, La Union.

• Location/Jump-off: San Fernando, La Union
• Entrance Fee: None

3. Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is one of the best tourist spots in La Union. Pebbles of different sizes cover a long stretch of the beach.

Therefore, don’t expect fine and powdery sands when you come here. Still, it is a beautiful sight to see especially if you come here during the early morning and late afternoon. I’m talking of spectacular sunrise and sunset.

Make sure you are a trained swimmer before plunging into the waters. The waves are strong here and can easily pull you to the deepest parts. If you’re not careful, things may go wrong.

Always have an expert swimmer on the lookout if you want to swim here.

• Location/Jump-Off: Bacnotan, Balaoan Road, Luna, La Union
• Travel Time: 45 minutes via jeep from San Fernando

READ: Pebble Beach (DIY GUIDE): How to Get There

4. Tapuakan River

Tapuakan River is one of the remotest tourist spots in La Union. Both locals and travelers love coming here because of its pristine waters, emanating from the grand mountains of the Cordillera region.

It is one of the cleanest inland bodies of water in the province. It’s a perfect getaway for those who want to cool off and escape the simmering midday heat.

The surrounding vegetation and the white rocks and boulders all along are added sights to see. If you’re lucky, you can spot fishes and crabs in the clear waters.

But don’t attempt to catch them. Leave them where they are. That’s one way for you to help in the river’s conservation.

If you’re a good swimmer, there are several deep pockets of pools where you can jump or dive into it.

• Location/Jump-Off: Pugo, La Union

5. Lotus Valley Farm

If you’re looking for a rustic paradise, then you should visit Lotus Valley Farm. It is one of the least known tourist spots in San Juan, La Union. But if you’re a nature lover who prefers off-beaten tracks, then this is it!

The Lotus Valley Farm is not a typical farm where you can find rows of trees or crops. It is a forest farm composed of thousands of flora and fauna species, all integrated naturally in a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Here, you can find several bamboo species, orchids, various fruit tree species, rare grasses, vegetables, rice, and many more. Oh, the farm also hosts enchanting Lotus flowers!

Mind you. The crops grown here are all organic!

If you plan to have an overnight stay, there are cottages which you can rent for Php 5000 to Php 6000.

The owner of the forest farm is Mr. Toby Tamayo, a recognized beekeeper, and permaculture practitioner. Sit with him, and you’ll hear a lot of exciting stories about the farm.

• Location/Jump-Off: San Juan, La Union

6. Grape Farms

What most of us know is that the grapes we have in the market are imported. But not all.

If you go to Baung, La Union, you’ll have all the time to pick fresh grapes. There are several farms in the area. During weekends and holidays, these usually become crowded.

You can visit all the farms at the same time. Of course, there are differences in terms of the entrance fees and the rates of the grapes. The local officials of Bauang are promoting the farms as agricultural tourist spots in La Union.

• Location/Jump-off: Bauang, La Union
• Entrance Fee: Php 100 and Php 150 for grape picking
• Opening Time: Monday to Saturday (7:00 AM to 4:00 PM) Sunday (7:00 AM to 3 PM)
• Contact: 072 7052 105

7. Balay Anito Falls

“Balay Anito” locally means the dwelling of the spirits. That falls is named as such because spirits are said to inhabit the falls. Thus, visitors are advised to offers prayers when coming here.

The falls has a 20-meter deep natural pool where you can take a plunge to relieve yourself from the simmering midday heat. It is one of La Union’s best tourist spots.

• Location/Jump-off: Lettac Sur, Santol, La Union
• Opening Time: Every day

8. Tuddingan Falls

Formerly known as Burayok falls, Tuddingan falls is one of the most accessible falls in La Union. It’s just around seven kilometers away from the town center.

Getting here involves a generally easy trek except for a 700-meter paved pathway, which you need to conquer before catching sight of the falls.

But fret not. Patches of forests line the trail, and from to time, you may catch sight of beautiful birds chirping and leaping. Tuddingan falls measures around 70 feet and cascades like drizzles on a beautifully-layered strata rocks.

It has a naturally-built catch basin with crystal-clear and cold waters, which provide an instant and soothing relief.

• Jump-Off Point: Brgy Tuddingan, Naguilian, La Union
• Best Time to Visit: July to December

9. Pagoda Hill

San Fernando City maybe a sprawling urban metropolis. But it does have sites where you can unwind and chill. Such is the Pagoda Hill. From here, you’ll catch a spectacular view of San Fernando City and the vast ocean.

Pagoda Hill is also called the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Park because it celebrates the bonds and friendship between the Filipinos and the Chinese people.

It’s best to come here during late afternoon so you can chance on a stunning view of the sunset. During the night, you can see the beautiful lights of the city.

• Location/Jump-Off: San Fernando, La Union

10. Bulalakaw Falls

Bulalakaw falls is one of the highest falls in La Union, measuring around 30-50 meters high. It has a serene and veneer pool with icy-cold and crystal-clear waters, providing rejuvenation.

About 500 meters away from the falls, you’ll catch a view of a beautiful river emanating from the mountains of the adjacent Cordillera region.

• Entrance fee: None
• Jump-Off Point: Sitio Santol, Brgy Alibangsay, Pugo, La Union
• Guide fee: Donation

11. Poro Point Lighthouse

Standing at the Poro Point Special Economic and Freeport Zone, the Poro Point Lighthouse is a century-old structure. Since the Spanish times, it served as a guiding light for seafarers and ships.

It is tangible proof of the busy marine activities in the olden times. To commemorate the landmark and its historical role, the “Sillag Festival of Lights” is conducted every May.

READ: Poro Point Lighthouse (UPDATED): Complete DIY Travel Guide

12. Occalong Falls

Occalong falls may not be as high as Tangadan falls or other prominent falls in La Union. But it does have unique features to offer. It measures around 10 feet high and cascades on a crystal-clear swimming pool. A beautiful forest surrounds the falls, giving it a rustic and scenic view.

If you prefer an off-beaten track, Occalong falls should make up to your La Union bucket list. There are a couple of cottages that you can rent for a minimal fee. It would be best to bring your meals when coming here.

• Entrance Fee: Php 10
• Location/Jump-off : Luna, La Union
• Trekking Time: 15-20 minutes

13. Balay na Bato

The structure is aptly named “Balay na Bato” because it is made from the stones and pebbles collected along Luna’s beaches.

The municipality, after all, is the Pebble Capital of the North and stone-picking a major livelihood among the locals. Painted pebbles and wooden sculpture made by a Korean artist adorn the house’s interiors.

Because of its rustic and serene ambiance, people love to celebrate their weddings, baptisms, birthday parties, and other functions here.

Camping can also be done so you can have beautiful memories of stargazing. You can also listen and meditate along the seashore.

• Location/Jump-Off: Brgy Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union
• Entrance Fee: Php 30

14. Baluarte Watchtower

Baluarte Watchtower is one of the best historical tourist spots/destinations in La Union. Built during the pre-Spanish times, it served as a lookout point for attacks by pirates and other sea elements.

Because of its sheer size, guards were able to issue immediate warnings and calls for protection.

From this spot, you can glimpse of Luna’s pebbled beach. It is vertically cut in two and stands in disarray because of eroded base and foundation.

Despite its deteriorating condition, the locals take pride in it as a symbol of their unity and strength.

• Location/Jump-Off: Luna, La Union

15. Namacpacan Church

What to do in La Union for devotees? Check out this Church.

Namacpacan draws thousands of devout Catholics every year, making it an important pilgrimage site.

In the past, it served as a refuge for people escaping the brutality of the colonizers. Dedicated after Our Lady of Namacpacan, the site has witnessed miracles through the years.

According to the locals, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to the natives of the Cordillera.

16. San Fernando Cathedral

Also called the Cathedral of St. William, the San Fernando Cathedral seats the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Fernando, La Union. Every 10, the municipality celebrates the feast of St. William.

17. Bauang Beach

Considered one of the premier swimming tourist spots in La Union, Bauang Beach is set in the rugged landscape of northern Luzon. Several excellent resorts line the sandy beaches.

These beaches offer a magnificent view of the sea and crystal-clear waters, which also serves as a fishing ground for the locals.

Among the activities, you can do here are surfing, boating, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, and different land activities.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Taberna, Bauang, La Union

18. Christ the Redeemer Statue

This 25-feet statue sits at the Reservoir Hill and overlooks San Fernando City and the surrounding bay. Every Good Friday, a procession commences from St. William’s Cathedral towards the statue.

19. Shrine of Our Lady of Charity

Because of reported miracles and wonders, thousands of Ilocano pilgrims troop to venerate the image of Our Lady of Charity. It dates back to the 17th century and has been attributed to the protection of crops in the region.

• Location/Jump-off: Agoo, La Union

20. Urbiztundo Beach

Urbiztundo Beach is the primary surfing spot in La Union. It’s also a good spot to learn the sport as there are different schools and surfing camps teaching newbies.

If you’re chasing food and nightlife, this is also one of the best in La Union. You’ll have an endless option here.

• Location/Jump-off: San Juan
• Best time to Visit: July to October (South Swell) and November to March (North Swell)

21. Loslosi Falls

Loslosi Falls is one of the highest cascades in La Union. But it’s a hit and miss. During summer, it is reduced to trickles but when it rains, it becomes a roaring beauty. It has four layers and the highest of which is around 80 meters high. It is one of the off-beaten tourist spots in La Union.

• Location/Jump-off: Sitio Nangalisan, Brgy Suyo, Bagulin

22. Simminublan Falls

Simminublan Falls is another beautiful spot in La Union that is less crowded. In fact, only locals mostly come here. If you’re into less touristy destinations, there’s just nothing like it here. Plus, you’ll get to experience the hospitality of the community folks.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Puguil, La Union

23. Bakes Spring/River

Emanating from pristine forests upstream, Bakes River has numerous pockets of pools with crystal-clear waters. Plunge on one of these and relish its healing and relaxing properties. The river is one of the emerging tourist destinations in La Union.

• Location/Jump-off: Santol

24. Tinag-Amerikano Falls

The waterfall is named as such because it’s where an American visitor accidentally fell. Thankfully, he survived to passed on his story. It is one of the numerous waterfalls found along the pristine Bakes River.

• Location/Jump-off: San Gabriel

25. Bacsil Ridge Historical Marker

Bacsil Ridge Historical Marker is one of the commemorated La Union tourist spots. Bacsil Ridge was one of the most famous battle sites during the Japanese invasion. The marker stands to celebrate the heroism of the soldiers who fought against the invaders.

• Location/Jump-off: F. Ortega Hwy, San Fernando

26. La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden

Where to go in La Union for a family getaway?

The garden sits on a twenty-hectare rolling landscape. It is a scientific garden, the first of its kind in the Philippines. Here, you’ll see various plant species that grow in tropical, subtropical, and desert climates. Enjoy learning the scientific names of each. You’ll also find a variety of wildlife species.

• Location/Jump-off: San Fernando
• Contact Number: (072) 888 6901

27. Bolikewkew Rice Terraces

You’ll not only find rice terraces in the Cordillera mountains. La Union’s hinterlands also have them including Bolikewkew Rice Terraces. Enjoy walking along them as you relish the rustic fragrance and the green sceneries. Visiting the rice terraces is one of the adventurous things to do in La Union.

• Location/Jump-off: Burgos

28. Immuki Island

Immuki Island is one of the fastest-growing tourist spots in La Union, a perfect respite from the daily bustles. Here, you’ll find several lagoons with turquoise waters and lush vegetation. Enjoy gazing at the endless ocean and its captivating waves.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Paraoir, Balaoan

29. Paraoir Man Made Forest

Feel like you want to act wild or be with the wild, visit Paraoir Man-Made Forest. Although man-made, some of the species here grew naturally. It is slowly turning into a haven for different wildlife species. It is one of the must-see tourist spots in La Union for nature lovers.

• Location/Jump-off: Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Rd, Balaoan

30. Darigayos Beach

Darigayos Beach stretches for more than 800 meters amidst blue waters. Unlike in most coastal areas of La Union, the beach has powdery white sands with colorful pebbles. It is one of the emerging tourist destinations in La Union.

• Location/Jump-off: Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Rd, Luna
• Cottage Rent: Php 200 to Php 500

Other Must-See La Union Tourist Spots

31. coral island resort.

• Location/Jump-off: Luna

32. Sto Domingo Sur Park

33. amburayan river.

• Location/Jump-off: Sudipen

34. Eagle of the North

• Location/Jump-off: Eagle of the North

35. PUGAD Pugo Adventure

• Location/Jump-off: Pugo

36. Taberna Beach

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Taberna, Bauang

37. Panicsican Beach

• Location/Jump-off:  Brgy Panicsican, San Juan, La Union

38. Canaoay Beach

• Location/Jump-off: San Fernando City, La Union

39. Carlatan Beach

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Carlatan, San Fernando City

40. Poro Point

For your information.

If you need more information to help set up your itinerary to the tourist spots in La Union, do contact the local tourism office via the following:

• Contact Number:  (072) 888 6922

Related Articles:

• Top 30 Pangasinan Tourist Spots: Home of the Hundred Islands
• Top 20 Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots: Host of the Heritage City of Vigan

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Hi, thank you for your guide, however, haven’t you visit Thunderbird Resort?

halu po…haven’t visited there po yet..thank you

Madali lang po ba yung transportation sa La Union? Hindi po ba kami mahihirapan puntahan yung bawat isa na lugar? Salamat po.

that depends po sir sa pupuntahan niyo…pg mga mga tourist spots within city proper, madali lng puntahan…pg mga outskirt destinations naman, usually, malimit ang transpo

Looks beautiful out there! Hope to go there someday. So much places to explore in Elyu.

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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11 Things to do in La Union + Tourist Spots

La Union is famous for the beach town of San Juan, the surfing capital of Luzon’s west coast. There is more to experience in this laidback province beyond its beautiful waves as well, including stunning natural sites, heritage attractions, and an exciting food scene.

Truly, La Union is a great place to explore for surfers and non-surfers alike! Because of its location near Manila, La Union is a popular weekend getaway for travelers coming from the metro.

You can experience a lot even on a short trip. It’s easy to travel in and around the province as most towns are conveniently located along the coastal highway.

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in La Union including top things to do & the best La Union tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your La Union itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: La Union .

1. Surf in San Juan

Surfer squad at Urbiztondo Beach, in San Juan, La Union, Philippines

Save on Google Maps .

La Union is home to nearest surfing spots from Manila. Aside from good swells, this is one of the reasons why it had become a popular destination for avid surfers and people who want to learn the sport. Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan is the most popular surfing spot and main tourist area. In contrast to other beaches in the Philippines, its peak season starts in October until March when the best waves arrive. Looking for other spots to surf? You can also find alternative surf spots nearby including Bacnotan, Darigayos, Taboc,and Jesus Point in Carilla.

How to go :

Manila, ride a bus bound for San Fernando, La Union (PHP400 fare per person). Tell the driver to drop you off at the jeepney stop for San Juan. Travel time is around 6 to 7 hours. Then, ride a jeepney to Urbiztondo Beach (PHP7 fare per person). Travel time is around 20 minutes. You can also ride a Vigan or Laoag-bound bus and drop off at San Juan Public Market, where you can catch a jeep or tricycle to Brgy. Urbiztondo.

Go to the beachfront for surfing lessons and surfboard rentals. The price of surf lessons is PHP400 per hour, inclusive of surfboard. If you are confident with your wave riding skills, skip the lessons and rent the board for PHP200 per hour or PHP500 for a half-day rental.

Book your trip to La Union

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

La Union Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

Where to stay in La Union:

The Circle Hostel – La Union

Budget Backpacker | San Juan

Costa Villa Beach Resort

Budget | San Juan

Flotsam and Jetsam

Budget Flashpacker | San Juan

Isla Bonita Beach Resort

Mid-range | San Juan

P and M Final Option Hotel

Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa

Splurge | San Juan

Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point

Splurge | San Fernando

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Tangadan Falls cliff diving

Tangadan Falls, in San Gabriel, La Union, Philippines

Take a break from the surf and enjoy a dip at Tangadan Falls. This waterfall in San Gabriel is an easy day trip from San Juan. Tangadan Falls has a spacious plunge pool that is perfect for swimming. You can ride a bamboo raft to the main cascade and enjoy a cool waterfalls shower massage. Nearby, you can find two smaller waterfalls that are popular for cliff diving. One is located on the upper level, upstream, and the other is farther downstream.

From San Juan, ride a jeep bound for San Gabriel (PHP19 fare per person). Drop off at the town proper. Then, ride a tricycle to the jump-off point (P50 per tricycle to the first jump-off point). Total travel time should take 30 to 45 minutes. There are two jump-off points to Tangadan Falls. The first trail is nearer from the town proper and requires as 1-hour hike upstream. The second requires a 20 to 30-minute hike, on a steeper trail downstream. You can also charter a tricycle directly from San Juan to get to San Gabriel (PHP500 per tricycle).

All visitors are required to pay the entrance fee and get a local guide. The entrance fee costs PHP30 per person. Meanwhile, the guide fee is PHP500 per guide, for 1 to 3 persons. Always remember to keep safe when cliff diving and swimming in the deep pool of the waterfall. Life jackets are available for rent, for PHP50 per piece.

3. La Union sunset

La Union’s coastline is blessed with glorious sunset views including Urbiztondo Beach. Go to the rocky area on the south side of the beach for dramatic views.

4. Luna Pebble Beach

Pebble beach, in Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union, Philippines

On the beachfront of Bahay Na Bato, you can find the most beautiful pebble beach that remains in Luna. This section of the coastline is surrounded by vibrant blue waters and strong sea waves. The town is known as the Pebble Capital of the North because of its many pebbled beaches and big stone-picking industry.

5. Bahay Na Bato

Bahay Na Bato in Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union, Philippines

From San Juan, head north to the town of Luna and check out Bahay Na Bato, the newest tourist attraction in the province. Built from stones found along Luna’s rare pebbled beaches, the rest house sits on a peaceful property owned by Dr. Edison and Dr. Purita Chan-Noble. In the interiors and around the grounds, you can find many interesting stone and wooden sculptures made by Korean artist, Bong Kim. The artistic feel of the place reminded me a lot of the  Black Houses in Chiang Rai, Thailand .

From San Juan, ride a jeep bound for Luna (PHP30 fare per person). Drop off at the town proper. Then, ride a tricycle to Bahay Na Bato in Brgy. Nalvo Norte (PHP50 fare per tricycle). Total travel time is around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

6. Luna Church and Baluarte

Namacpacan Church in Luna, La Union, Philippines

Visit some of Luna’s remaining heritage sites. The St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish, also called The Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan or Namacpacan Church, stands beside the town plaza. This Spanish-colonial church was built in 1690. It is one of the grandest churches in the province. It is listed as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines. A few hundred meters away, the Luna Baluarte or Watchtower stands along a pebbled beach. The watchtower served as a fortress that was used by Spanish colonizers to warn residents of pirate attacks.

During my visit, I, and travel buddy  Gael  discovered that the Luna Watchtower had been beautifully restored. The structure was fully intact and repaired from its ruined state after it got destroyed by a strong typhoon in 2015. Unfortunately, the once beautiful pebbled beach in this area had been over-mined by stone pickers. From the photos we had seen online, the pebbles used to cover the whole beachfront up to the waterline. Today, only patches of big stones remain. It’s a shame because pebbled beaches are quite rare, formed by nature for millions of years. Now it is long gone.

7. Food trip & nightlife in Urbiztondo

Mad Monkeys burgers in Urbiztondo, San Juan. La Union, Philippines

The rise of San Juan as a popular beach getaway near Manila attracts a steady crowd of Millenials. Urbiztondo had grown a bit of a hipster feel to it. Don’t miss the Instagram and tummy-worthy food scene. Then, cap the night off with drinks at many beach and roadside bars. My personal favorite places to eat/drink are Olas Banditos (Mexican), Mad Monkeys (Burgers), Surf Shack (Restobar) and Tagpuan (Affordable meals).

8. Halo Halo de Iloko

Halo Halo de Iloko, in San Fernando, La Union, Philippines

The food scene is exciting as well in San Fernando, the capital city of La Union. Getting there only takes 20 minutes, it’s a shame if you miss it. The most popular place to eat here is Halo Halo de Iloko, located along Zandueta Street. They sell Halo Halo with a tasty twist. Try the Buko Halo Halo, Ginataan nga Halo Halo or Deep Fried Halo Halo. They also serve delicious Ilokano-fusion dishes. You might have to queue a bit before getting a table since the restaurant is almost always full. The wait is worth it.

From Urbiztondo, ride a jeep to San Fernando (PHP11 fare per person).  Drop off at the city center and ride a tricycle to Halo Halo de Iloko. Locals are very familiar with it.

9. Ma-Cho Temple

Ma Cho Temple, in San Fernando, La Union, Philippines

While you are in San Fernando, stop over at Ma-Cho Temple, a picturesque temple found on top a hill. It is the first Taoist temple and only one in the Philippines that is dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu. Some of its interesting features include the towering main building crowned by an unusual spider-type dome, the Majestic Five Door Gate, and interiors filled with ancient Chinese decorations. As you can imagine, a lot of people come here to get a selfie with the sign “Macho.”

From Halo Halo de Iloko, ride a tricycle to Ma-Cho Temple (PHP8 fare per person).

10. Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point, in San Fernando, La Union

Seeking a luxurious stay or romantic dinner? Go to Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point in San Fernando. This Santorini-inspired resort is famous not only for its imposing white-washed buildings and blue domes. It’s also praised for its gorgeous cliff-top location, facing a serene sunset view of the West Philippine Sea.

Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

Check rates

11. La Union grape farms & fruit picking

Grapes farm in Bauang, La Union, Philippines

Before leaving La Union, drop by the grape farms in Bauang. You can go grape-picking here and bring the fresh harvest as pasalubong. Grape farms in the country are a surprising discovery for most Filipinos because we have a notion that this fruit can only grow in cold weather. There are numerous grape farms in town and many of them are open to the public.

Here is a list of grape farms in Bauang, La Union.

Lomboy Grape Farm  — (+63) 72 705 2105

Gapuz Grape Farm  — (+63) 922 770 1520 / (+63) 999 714 7616

Mangguera Grape Farm  — (+63) 907 905 0303 / (+63) 0905 550 5046

Calica Grape Farm  — (+63) 907 858 6784

The grape farms Bauang in are located in Brgy. Urayong. Bauang is just one town away from San Fernando. If you are coming from Manila, it will be the last town you will pass by before reaching San Fernando. From San Fernando or San Juan, you can a jeepney bound for Agoo. You can also ride any southbound bus to Manila, Pangasinan, or Baguio. Drop off at the intersection to the grape farms in Brgy. Urayong. The fare should cost around PHP20 to PHP30. From the intersection, the grape farms are less than 1 kilometer away, towards the coast.

The one we had visited was Gapuz Grape Farm. They did not charge any entrance fee, but they may ask for a PHP20 fee if you plan on taking photos. Grape-picking cost is PHP250 per kilogram.

Contact the farms prior to your visit because grape-picking is only available during selected times of the year.

Places to visit near La Union

Wright Park in Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

Location : Benguet province, Cordillera region, Luzon, northern Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Baguio Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

See more : Baguio travel tips

Location : Ilocos Sur province, Luzon, northern Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Vigan Travel Essentials

See more : Vigan travel tips

Location : Ilocos region, Luzon, northern Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Laoag Travel Essentials

See more : Laoag travel tips

Beyond La Union

Location : Central Luzon region, northern Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Clark Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

See more : Clark travel tips

Location : Metro Manila, Luzon, northern Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Manila Travel Essentials

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

See more : Manila travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in La Union that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in La Union

La Union tourist spots, things to do in La Union, where to go in La Union & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to La Union

How much does it cost to travel to La Union? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in La Union

Make base at San Juan or San Fernando to enjoy the central-location in La Union. Getting to all tourist spots mentioned on this list is very easy from both locations. Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan is lined with a variety of options ranging from backpacker-friendly budget options to luxurious accommodations. Book a room in San Fernando if you want to stay nearer to city comforts.

Where to book

Click below & search recommended La Union hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

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April 6, 2017 at 8:00 pm

Very cool destinations! We only passed by La Union when we went to Vigan/Pagudpud and we returned from Sagada via Baguio. We should include La Union in our next Luzon trip. :)

July 27, 2017 at 11:12 am

It’s good to read some tips from you especially like me planning to visit La Union for the first time! I have now ideas about the places that are truly worthy to visit.

September 20, 2018 at 2:01 pm

I’ve been to La Union but I wasn’t able to check out Luna Beach. It looks amazing!

June 30, 2019 at 7:35 am

Your article is helpful. Planning to explore the different sides of LU.

February 9, 2020 at 6:05 pm

Can you recommend a tour guide for us please?

June 1, 2020 at 3:59 pm

Planning to do a solo-backpacking in La Union. Sana mapuntahan ko tong lahat ng destination na to within 24-48 hours. Stunning photos by the way.

November 29, 2022 at 9:28 am

I love La Union, I’ve been there and I really had great experiences surfing in San Juan. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Can’t wait to go back here. I miss La Union.

Top Things to Do in La Union Province

Things to do in la union province, explore popular experiences, top attractions in la union province.

What travelers are saying

• Ma-Cho Temple
• Shrine of Our Lady of Charity
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Gapuz Grapes Farm
• Kamay na Bato
• Tangadan Falls
• Acapulco Beach
• Bauang Beach
• Bulalakaw Falls
• Tuddingan Falls
• Baluarte Watch Tower

31 Top LA UNION TOURIST SPOTS in 2024

La Union is one of the most visited provinces in the Ilocos Region because of the surfing and chill vibe. But apart from surfing, there are tons of La Union tourist spots you can visit.

If you’re planning a trip to La Union soon, here’s the perfect travel guide to help you decide on what to do in La Union and to find the best La Union destinations.

Table of Contents

BEST La Union Tourist Spots

Going to La Union? Here are the must-see La Union’s famous tourist attractions.

Urbiztundo Beach

Urbiztondo Beach is the heart of La Union’s surfing scene. The best time to learn and surf is between July and March. Catering to both novices and experts, its waves are versatile and welcoming.

The beachfront boasts popular establishments like “El Union Coffee”, known for its specialty brews, and “Flotsam and Jetsam”, a favorite hangout spot for travelers.

As the sun sets, the horizon paints a breathtaking picture, making Urbiztondo a top spot not just for surfing, but for relaxation too. For those eager to ride the waves, surfing lessons are a must-try.

BOOK A SURF LESSON HERE

La Union, often associated with its pristine beaches and surfing waves, holds another delightful surprise for its visitors: grape farms. While the coastal waves draw surfers, the inland vineyards beckon those looking for a unique agritourism experience.

Several grape farms dot the landscape of La Union. These farms offer visitors a chance to walk amidst rows of grapevines, learn about the grape cultivation process, and even pick their own bunches of fresh grapes. The experience is made even more special as it’s not every day one gets to pick grapes under the tropical sun, a stark contrast to the vineyards of cooler climates.

Beyond grape-picking, some farms introduce visitors to traditional Filipino dining experiences, like the “boodle fight” meal served on a banana leaf.

Visiting a grape farm in La Union provides a delightful detour from the usual beach activities. It’s an opportunity to connect with the land, understand the region’s agricultural heritage, and enjoy the fruits of labor quite literally. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a fruit lover, or someone seeking a unique experience, the grape farms of La Union are a must-visit.

Here’s a list of the best grape farms in La Union .

Immuki Island

Immuki Island is La Union’s hidden gem. You’ll find here three turquoise blue lagoons perfect for swimming and cliff jumping! The waters here are so clear you can even see the fishes swimming under. Don’t miss the chance of exploring this beauty and hop on the next jeep passing by Brgy. Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union.

We’ve put together a DIY Travel Guide to Immuki Island .

Tangadan Falls

Trek to Tangadan Falls and lay your eyes on one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Ilocos Region and among the best La Union tourist spots.

Nestled in the town of San Gabriel, Tangadan Falls is a captivating two-tier waterfall that beckons visitors with its pristine waters and serene ambiance. The falls cascade gracefully, creating a tranquil pool below that’s perfect for a refreshing dip. Surrounded by lush greenery, the ambiance at Tangadan is one of peace and rejuvenation.

To get there, you can choose to ride a jeepney (best for groups), a tricycle (good for 4 to 5 persons) or a motorbike. The trek to the falls is relatively easy, taking only about 15 minutes from the jump off point. You also have the option to do a one hour trek.

Once there, you can indulge in various activities:

• Swimming: Dive into the cool waters for a refreshing swim.
• Cliff Diving: Test your courage by diving from designated spots.
• Bamboo Rafting: Rent a raft to get closer to the cascading waters.
• Photography: Capture the beauty of the falls and surrounding nature.

The falls is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Ma-cho Temple

Perched atop a hill in San Fernando, La Union, the Ma-Cho Temple stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of Filipino and Chinese cultures. Overlooking the West Philippine Sea, this Taoist temple, built in 1975, is dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu.

The temple’s architecture is a visual treat, with intricate Chinese decorations and Taiwanese art adorning its interiors. One of its standout features is the Spider Dome, a structure showcasing 13 tiers of interlinking wooden carvings depicting images of various saints. Visitors can also marvel at the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Bamboo Garden, Lian Thing Pagoda, and the grand Five Door Gate. Each corner of the temple is embellished with motifs of lions, dragons, and deities, reflecting the rich tapestry of Chinese traditions.

But beyond its architectural splendor, the Ma-Cho Temple is a sanctuary of peace and meditation. Regardless of religious beliefs or affiliations, visitors are welcomed to find solace, meditate, and immerse themselves in the tranquility that the temple offers. The panoramic view of the sea and harbor from its highest point adds to the serene experience, making it a must-visit spot for both spiritual seekers and tourists alike.

Planning to visit? Make sure you follow the dress code.

• No mini-skirts.
• No exposed midriffs.
• No short shorts.
• No exposed shoulders.
• No tank tops.
• No dresses or skirts with high slits.
• No tops with plunging necklines.
• No tops with spaghetti straps.
• No tops that expose bare shoulders or bare backs.
• No see-through tops.

Also, pets are not allowed.

Namacpacan Church

If you love visiting churches during your trips, Namacpacan Church, also known as the St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish should be on your list!

Constructed during the 1960s, this Spanish colonial church is not only an architectural marvel but also holds significant cultural importance. The Philippine government has honored it by designating it as a National Cultural Treasure. When you step inside, you’ll be greeted by intricate designs and a serene ambiance that provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling outside world.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or someone seeking spiritual solace, Namacpacan Church is a must-visit when in La Union.

Balay na Bato

Balay na Bato used to be open to the public for viewing. However, now, only the Kamay na Bato Open Art Gallery section is available for the public. Just beside the pebble beach of Luna, La Union, the gallery features Korean national, Mr. Bong Kim’s stone busts, stone carvings, murals, and paintings. Don’t forget to take lots of photos!

Now here’s a fun fact! Did you know that you can book a room in the Balay na Bato via Airbnb? Bet you didn’t! Ryk and I booked one of their bungalows on our 3rd wedding anniversary. Our accommodation had its own kitchen, bathroom, living room and 1 bedroom. Our favorite part of the bungalow would be the bedroom’s ceiling. It had a painting of a fishes swimming under the sea! Truly beautiful!

We enjoyed watching the sunset from the view deck. The sunrise from the pebble beach is also not to be missed!

• Noblehome at Bahay na Bato- BUNGALOW 1
• Noblehome at Bahay na Bato- BUNGALOW 21
• Noblehome at Bahay na Bato- BUNGALOW 3

Tapuakan River

With crystal clear waters, you can’t go wrong with visiting one of the cleanest inland rivers in the country’s northern region. Bring lots of food and eat your heart away as you enjoy what nature offers. Wear aqua shoes as the river is quite rocky.

Pebble Beach

You can find the Pebble Beach in Luna, La Union just behind Balay na Bato. After exploring the Art Gallery, you can head over to Pebble Beach. Best time to visit would be during sunset and sunrise. We roamed around in the middle of the day and it’s super hot!

In the early mornings, you’ll find locals picking up pebbles, dogs playing and some kids fishing.

Unlike the typical sandy shores, this beach is unique as it is covered with pebbles. The sight of countless pebbles replacing the usual sandy shore offers a distinctive and picturesque view for visitors.

Darigayos Beach

La Union has several beaches aside from Urbiztondo beach. This includes Darigayos beach that’s famous among locals but not too crowded. Unlike the nearby pebble beaches, Darigayos has fine, white sand perfect for beach bumming and watching the sunset. You’ll find lots of cottages here for rent if you want to stay longer.

You’ll also find here the Noble Tower Resort, an eye-catching structure constructed from pebbles and coral shingles, and surrounded by lush greenery. It’s not hard to miss. If you ever find yourself going to Balay na Bato from Urbiztondo, this resort stands out.

Christ the Redeemer Statue

You can find the 25 ft Christ the Redeemer Statue at the Reservoir Hill in San Fernando City, La Union. The view is nice. However, if you’re driving your car, you should know that the road going there is narrow. Plus, only two cars can fit the parking space.

Baluarte Watchtower

Take cool photos and learn a little bit of history at Luna’s Baluarte Watchtower. This was once used by the Spaniards as a watchtower to warn the locals of any pirate attacks. In 2015, the structure was destroyed by a typhoon. But now, it’s restored to its former glory.

St. John the Baptist Parish

Red bricks are what makes St. John the Baptist Parish unique from the other La Union churches. The parish was established in 1707 but later on destroyed in the 1898 revolution. The current church was built after the Spanish-American war.

Occalong Falls & Usuken Falls

Among the many beautiful La Union waterfalls is Occalong Falls located in Luna, La Union. If you want to go for a refreshing dip in the cold waters, this is the place to go! Entrance fee is just 20 pesos per person. Compared to the Tangadan falls, this one’s smaller but also breathtaking.

And a few minutes’ walk away is a smaller fall called Usuken Falls. Locals frequent this falls to beat the heat and spend time dipping in the cold waters in the jungle.

Shrine of Our Lady of Charity

Also known as Agoo Basilica, the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity is a great place to go pray and reflect. The interior design is what makes it one of the best churches to visit. The parish was founded in 1578 but the current church was constructed n 1978.

Pindangan Ruins

The Pindangan Ruins can be found in San Fernando City, La Union. The ruins are the remains of an old Catholic church built in 1764. The structures are greatly influenced by Spanish designs. If you want to learn a little bit of history and love exploring ancient structures, this should be on your must-visit La Union tourist spots!

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

If you love history, don’t forget to drop by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This was built in honor of the soldiers and guerillas who fought during World War II.

Tuddingan Falls

Found in Naguilian, Tuddingan Falls (formerly called Burayok Falls)is not to be missed when going on a trip to La Union. Compared to other waterfalls in the province, this one has easy access from the road. The falls has a towering height of 70 feet and supplies the ricefields of Naguilian.

Balay Anito Falls

Balay Anito Falls is believed to be the home of spirits, thus its name.  Balay  in the local language means house/home while  anito  means spirits/ghosts. Before exploring the falls, visitors are asked to say a prayer first.

Bulalakaw Falls

With a height of 30 to 50 meters, Bulalakaw Falls is for those who love discovering the roads less traveled and exploring nature’s best sites. You will find Bulalakaw Falls in Bagulin, La Union with a serene basin at the bottom to swim around in.

Pagoda Hill

For a great view of the sunset, don’t miss the Pagoda Hill. This is one of the local’s favorite places to meet, hang out or simply relax and unwind.

St William The Hermit Cathedral

Also known as the San Fernando Cathedral, St William The Hermit Cathedral was first constructed in the 1700’s. For history buffs, this should be on your list. It’s one of the oldest structures in the province.

Bauang Beach

Bauang Beach is a favorite spot for families, especially those with children. My sisters, nephews and niece love going to Bauang beach.

Unlike the beaches in San Juan, Bauang Beach is characterized by its calmer waves, making it an ideal location for those who prefer a more tranquil beach experience. It’s also less crowded, allowing visitors to have a more relaxed and private time by the shore.

The beach is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the more popular beaches and just enjoy the serene ambiance of the sea.

Poro Point Lighthouse

Poro Point Lighthouse is a century-old preserved structure in San Fernando, La Union. It’s a great place to stop by and take in the view.

Sts Peter and Paul Parish

Founded in 1580, Sts Peter and Paul Parish in Bauang, La Union are among the oldest churches in the area. You can easily see this parish with its red bricks.

Centennial Tree

Are you a tree hugger? Then, the Centennial Tree in Carcarmay, Bacnotan, La Union should be on your list. The acacia tree was planted in 1896 and is now a part of the area’s wonderful La Union tourist spots for all tree lovers.

It stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of the area. The tree has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, who come to marvel at its grandeur and take photos. Plus, it’s free to visit!

Acapulco Beach

If you want a less crowded beach, Acapulco beach is the way to go. You can camp or rent a cottage and enjoy your time swimming.

Paraoir Man-made Forest

Recreate a photo of the man-made forest in Bohol in Paraoir. You can also find several trees lined up where the temperature is much cooler. Be careful of cars when taking your photos.

La Union Botanical Garden

Love plants? Don’t miss the La Union Botanical Garden! Inaugurated in 1996, you can find here all kinds of local fauna. Be ready to walk as you go up the rolling hills and revel in the beauty of nature.

Kultura Splash Wave

Among the resorts loved by kids in La Union is the Kultura Splash Wave in Pugo, La Union because of its wave pool. There are also several slides you’ll surely enjoy!

Pugad Pugo Adventure

For those seeking an adrenaline rush in La Union, PUGAD Pugo Adventure is the place to be. This resort offers several activities that’ll get your heart racing. You can choose from ziplining, wall climbing, or riding an ATV. Because of its close proximity to Baguio, a lot of my family and friends have PUGAD Pugo Adventure at the top of their list of vacation resorts.

The park boasts two zip lines: a 450-meter long “Superman” zip line and a shorter 250-meter line, both offering breathtaking views of the resort and the surrounding landscapes. For those who prefer their thrills closer to the ground, the giant swing, perched on the side of a cliff, promises a unique experience.

Beyond the adventure activities, PUGAD also features a mini zoo, home to a variety of exotic animals including snakes, bearcats, and even a tiger. After a day of excitement, visitors can cool off in one of the park’s ten swimming pools.

How To Get To La Union

From manila.

From Manila, you can ride a bus going to San Fernando City, La Union. The Partas buses heading to Vigan and Laoag also passes by La Union, so you can ride those and ask to be dropped off near your La Union accommodation.  Travel time is around 6 hours from Cubao.

Related: Partas Luxury Bus: Travel to La Union, Vigan, and Laoag from Cubao

From Baguio

If you’re coming from Baguio, you can ride any Partas bus bound to Vigan or Laoag and ask to be dropped off near your La Union accommodation. Travel time is around 2 hours!

From Vigan or Laoag

You can ride buses heading to Baguio or Manila and ask to be dropped off in La Union. Travel time from Vigan is around 2.5 hours and from Laoag is around 4.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Check schedules and availability of buses, ferries, taxis or flights to book online with 12Go Asia.

Important Things To Know About La Union

ATMs:  There are several banks in La Union especially in San Fernando and San Juan so you don’t have to worry about the lack of ATMs. However, it’s best to always carry enough cash with you.

Languages Spoken:  Most locals can speak Ilocano and are fluent in Tagalog and English.

• Dinengdeng Festival (Last week of April to first week of May) –  Dinengdeng is the most loved dish by Ilocanos in La Union. Every year, the locals of Agoo, La Union hold a festival for this dish. You can expect cooking contests and lots of food!
• Tabacco Festival (March) – Tubao, La Union celebrates the Tobacco Festival annually for its bountiful tobacco harvest. The area is known to produce the biggest volume of tobacco in the country. Enjoy a colorful celebration!
• Sillag Festival (April) – Sillag Festival is a 2 to 3 day event that featuring a lantern parade, musical show, and the ceremonial lighting of the Sillag Village in San Fernando, La Union.
• Baggak Festival (April) – Baggak Festival is celebrated yearly in Bauang, La Union. In local terms, “baggak” means morning star and represents a new day in Bauang. You’ll find here a great show of costumes and portrayal of the Ilocano culture.
• Pinadangan Festival (March) –  For the most colorful costumes and amazing street dancing, don’t miss the Pinadangan Festival in San Fernando, La Union.

Best time to visit:  Best months to visit would be from December to February for cooler weather. The months with the least rainfall are November to April.

Getting Around:  To get around La Union, you can choose from tricycles, jeepneys, and buses.

Where to Stay in La Union

Looking for hotels, Airbnbs, or resorts in La Union? We’ve got you covered!

San Juan La Union Resorts and Hotels

The escape san juan.

If you’re traveling in a group and looking for a place to stay the night, this hostel in San Juan offers a bar, shared lounge, garden, and free WiFi. You can even rent a bike or a car to make it easier for you to tour around La Union.

• BOOK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED RATES:  Agoda

Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel

If you want to just relax during your trip, Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel’s laid-back ambience is sure to make you want to extend your stay. Complete with colorful decors, you’ll definitely fill your phone’s storage with IG-worthy memories!

Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa

For that much-awaited luxurious getaway, you can’t go wrong with Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa. Every cent spent is worth it with the stunning infinity pool, delicious food, and lots of activities to choose from!

• BOOK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED RATES: Agoda

Awesome Hotel

There’s a reason why this hotel’s name is Awesome. Boasting of a beachfront location, Awesome Hotel is a luxurious resort offering a Kubo Garden where you can enjoy the best of what the sea has to offer. Don’t forget to experience the hotel’s jacuzzi, fountain and the swimming pool!

• BOOK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED RATES:  Ago d a

San Fernando La Union Resorts and Hotels

Aureo la union.

If you want to stay in San Fernando, Aureo La Union is one of your best options! It’s a beachfront accommodation offering a bar, restaurant, and a garden. The outdoor pool is sure to give you a refreshing dip after a hot day at the beach.

Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point

Well known for its Santorini-like designs, Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point will give you the highest standards of luxury and comfort in La Union. Once you check-in, you’ll never want to check out.

Related: Where to Stay in La Union: 17 Best Hotels & Resorts in La Union

Responsible Travel Tips

When traveling to any of the La Union tourist spots above, make sure you practice responsible tourism. Here are some tips to do so.

1. Respect the environment

Don’t litter. Please hold onto your trash until you find a garbage can.

Related:  16 Eco-Friendly Travel Products for the Earth-Loving You

2. Avoid single-use plastic

Bring your eco bag and refuse single-use plastic.

3. Shop local

Keep the traditional crafts alive and support local artisans. Buy from them. And try not to haggle. P20 may seem small to you, but it can mean a lot to them.

4. Always ask permission

Be sure to ask for permission first when taking photos or videos, especially when it comes to children.

5. Don’t bring home sand and seashells

Take nothing but photos. Removal of seashells can harm the ecosystem and endanger creatures such as hermit crabs. You’ll often also find seashells sold as decorations, ornaments, or keychains. Please avoid supporting these and don’t buy.

What to Pack for La Union

• Eco-friendly Reusable Water Bottle
• Light Rain Jacket (especially from June to November) 
• T-shirts, a nice top, and a long-sleeved shirt
• Power Adapter
• Universal Waterproof Phone Case
• Packing Cubes
• Microfiber Towel
• Travel Insurance
• Sneakers, Hiking shoes (if you’re planning to hike) and some flats
• Reusable Straw and Reusable Bag (no to single-use plastic!)

Which La Union tourist spot did you like the most? Did we miss any of your favorite La Union tourist spots? Let me know in the comments below!

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7 Best LA UNION TOURIST SPOTS (with Beaches & Travel Guide)

La Union Special – that was the theme of our program’s episode.

It was years ago when I worked as a Segment Producer on a main TV station in the Philippines. During that time, my show was a Public Affairs program helping the community through the influence of some well-known people and celebrities.

We were 3 teams. All of us traveled to La Union with our own story and segment to produce. I was assigned to shoot at a local community in Pugo , La Union. We gave out school supplies and slippers to the kids.

It was a fulfilling and productive day. But for me personally, I was stressed running around making sure that the program went well while coordinating with my researcher to make sure that everything will be fine.

After 6 hours of land travel, I was back at the office. My team of cameramen and researcher bid goodbye to finally rest in their own homes. Me? I stayed at the office overnight to write the script and go on for 3-day editing until the segment aired.

That was my life.

My work enabled me to travel, but was that really travel? When I left the job and took a different career path, destiny led me to not give up writing. The routine of the corporate 9 to 5 can make someone insane especially if you’re the “creative” type. So I took charge of my life and created this blog.

After a few years, I was back in La Union, and it was so much better that the first time.

Back in La Union

La Union or ELYU for millennials (like me LOL!) is the surfing capital of the north. It is a coastal town perfect for weekend warriors and travelers who clamor for some relaxation from their busy. It’s just 6 hours from Manila and has become a major surfing spot in the country.

But as I discover more about this province, La Union is definitely more than its beaches and waves. Other towns in the province offer far more than the usual surfing, and I am truly excited to share this with you. So let’s begin.

1. TANGADAN FALLS

It was 5 AM when we arrived at the municipal hall of San Gabriel, La Union, the spot where we met our guide going to Tangadan Falls. Yes, you read it right there are waterfalls in La Union and Tangadan is the one getting a lot of attention now from travelers and millennials posting on social media.

We waited for more than an hour, because registration will start at 6:30 AM, and it is not allowed to travel there when it’s dark because of the steep roads which I fully understood when we started the travel.

It is recommended to rent a jeepney going to Tangadan Falls. Tangadan is located at the heart of the forest surrounded by mountains. Good thing that the local government was able to construct a road going there maybe because there are people living in that part of the mountain.

But man, the swerve and steepness of the road is unbelievable. I mean I understood why travelers need to rent a jeep going there because it really needs a high-powered vehicle to be able to endure those roads that seemed like mazes in the mountains.

Jeepneys there are huge and can endure those roads even with full passengers. Don’t dare to go there in a sedan or a van especially if you have many passengers. There have been a lot of travelers who have insisted on taking their own vehicles there and ended up being rescued because their car stopped in the middle of those very steep roads. Believe me when I say the roads are very steep, and listen to the locals.

The Hike to Tangadan Falls

There is just a certain spot, the farthest place the vehicles can reach then after that, all must walk or hike going to Tangadan Falls.

The hike was pretty bearable for hikers and fit (you know what I mean). But if you know that you’ve never had any physical activity for a while, please prepare for this walk because this can be difficult for you.

After about 30 minutes of walking, we started hearing the gush of water, the sign that we were approaching the waterfalls.

My Loves hehe

CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR HOTELS IN LA UNION

Friendly talaga ako sa dogs. hehe

Tangadan Falls is simply nice to look at. It’s huge and majestic. Waterfalls really have this charm that can make you relax and feel better.

The good thing about Tangadan, its rock formations are somewhat perfect for a good view of the falls. Eloi and I went down to the lower parts of those huge rocks to have those perfect photos.

We spent more minutes there, just sitting and enjoying the place until we decided to go back.

The hike back going back is a lot tougher because most of the trail is going up, but by just taking it slow and taking your time, you can do it! It’s even a nice exercise.

When we reached the town of San Gabriel, we decided to have our early lunch at a nearby karinderia . We were all tired after the hike to Tangadan, so we decided to eat and chill first before going to our next destination.

How to get to Tangadan Falls

From Manila, ride a bus going to La Union. Bus companies like Viron, Partas, and Philippine Rabbit have daily trips to La Union. Travel time is about 6 hours with a fare of Php 400. Drop off point is San Fernando, then ride a jeep going to San Gabriel. The fare is Php 20 and the travel time is about 30 – 45 minutes. Register at San Gabriel Municipal Hall area and get help for transportation going to Tangadan Falls.

If you’re going to Tangadan via private vehicle, I suggest that you park your car at the San Gabriel Municipal Hall, then ask for help for your transport going to Tangadan Falls. If you are a big group, rent a jeep. It is not advisable to use your car going to the jump-off point to Tangadan, the roads are very steep and you need a high-powered vehicle for that either a big jeep or pickup truck/car. You can risk your car going there if you only have one passenger, but if you’re a group like family or barkada and the car is full, not advisable. Titirik kotse niyo!

2. PEBBLE BEACH OF LUNA

Our next destination was supposed to be the Balay na Bato and the Stone Hand Art Gallery. Unfortunately, the Bahay na bato was closed, and opted to check out the Stone Hand Art Gallery. I’ll give you a detailed story inside this Art gallery but right now, I’ll share with you our experience when we got out of the gallery and just wanted to kill some time.

Eloi and I walked near the shore until we saw this beach that instead of sand, full of pebble stones. Amazing!

The waves are huge and it creates a humongous sound as it crashes through the stones. This place is for advanced surfers only and a board that can really take a beating. It is not advisable to swim there, so we just relaxed and took some photos.

This pebble beach is located in Luna, La Union. We saw some kids picking and sorting some colorful stones. This is one way of living for locals. I’m just concerned that this activity can affect the foundation of the beach. What happens when they run out of stones?

Near the Pebble Beach is the Luna Watchtower or Baluarte. It’s a slanting spherical fort built by Spaniards to prevent threats from pirates at that time. This is another good side trip when you visit Luna, La Union.

How to get to Pebble Beach in Luna, La Union

From Manila, ride a bus going to San Fernando, La Union. Bus companies like Partas and Viron in Cubao have daily trips to La Union. Drop off point is the San Fernando bus terminal, then ask around and ride for the jeep going to Luna. Travel time is about an hour.

Once you arrived at Luna town proper, look for St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish, then you’ll see a road going to Pebble beach. You’ll see some sacks of pebbles along the road for sale, it’s a sign that you’re near the beach.

Via San Juan, La Union

If you happened to be in San Juan, La Union surfing and you want to do a side trip going to Luna, the DIY style, just go to the main highway and wait for those ordinary or aircon buses going to Vigan or Laoag. Tell the konduktor or bus attendant that you’re going to Luna, the drop-off point is Balaoan. From there, ride a tricycle going to Luna.

3. SURFING IN SAN JUAN

It was past lunchtime when we arrived in the beaches of San Juan, so just imagine the scorching heat of the sun. This is the major surfing spot of San Juan, Urbiztondo Beach.

Huge waves surprised us. There was this warning that swimming is not allowed, but you know this is a surfing spot so maybe it is just a reminder for non-surfers to take precautions when swimming.

We were so obedient, we didn’t swim hahaha! We just sit there watching the surfers do their moves and best of all, we took a lot of photos.

How to get to Urbiztondo in San Juan, La Union

There are bus companies in Cubao or Pasay that have daily trips to La Union. These are Partas, Dominion, and Viron. The fare is about PHP 450 and the travel time is The drop-off point is in San Fernando. From there, ride a jeep going to Urbiztondo Beach or San Juan, La Union.

Where to Stay in San Juan, La Union?

If you’re planning to stay overnight or for a few days in San Juan to further enhance your surfing skills (hahaha), there are a lot of options for accommodation from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

The most popular and affordable hostel is the Circle Hostel at Urbiztondo. The Circle Hostel is perfect for those who want to meet new people and friends like young backpackers and travelers. They have dorm-type rooms to solo rooms, but the best part about this hostel is their common areas where guests are having the chance to connect and talk with other travelers.

CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR MORE LA UNION HOTELS

4. MA-CHO TEMPLE

There was a lot of waiting time when we were at the beach, so imagine our “ siesta ” feeling when we went to our next stop.

It was already late afternoon when we arrived at Macho Temple. This is located on a hill that is about 70 feet above sea level. Ma-cho temple is a Taoist temple built by the Chinese community of San Fernando, La Union. Although a Taoist temple, everyone is welcome to visit the place. Its colorful and intricate design is something everyone will enjoy and appreciate.

How to get to Ma-Cho Temple, La Union

If you’re from Manila, ride a bus going to San Fernando, La Union. Bus companies like Partas, Dominion, and Viron offer daily trips there. From San Fernando, ride a jeep going to Ma-Cho Temple.

If you’re from the Surfing Spot in San Juan, just ride a jeep going to San Fernando, then ride a tricycle going to Ma-Cho Temple.

5. LA UNION GRAPE FARM

We were in a hurry! Just to make sure that we arrive at the grape farms of Bauang with sunlight. We parked along the highway. We arrived at ED’s Grape Farm just in time, a few more minutes before sunset.

I’ve read a lot of articles online about the proliferation of grape farms in La Union. Of course, I was convinced that there are these farms in the province but it is a different case when you see and experience it by yourself.

It was the last week of January when we were there so grapes are not yet ready for harvest. I tasted one, and I agree the staff said that it would still take months before harvest season.

Aside from the fruits, they are also selling wines.

Bauang in La Union has been the home of numerous grape farms in the country. It all started in 1972 when the so-called “Grape King” Avelino Lomboy started the Lomboy Farms. Then over the years more and more farms were built like Gapuz Farms and ED’s Farms.

How to get to Grape Farms in La Union

Ride a bus going to Bauang, La Union. Bus companies like Partas and Dominion have daily trips to Bauang. Tell the bus attendant that you’re going to the Grape Fams because most of the fams are located along the National Highway like EDs and Lomboy Farms.

6. BAHAY NA BATO AND STONE HAND ART GALLERY

If you are the “artsy” type, this is for you. Just after we experienced Tangadan Falls, we traveled for more than an hour going to Luna, La Union for the Stone Hand Art Gallery and Bahay na Bato.

Unfortunately, Bahay na Bato was temporarily closed, so we settled for the Stone Hand Art Gallery.

Just upon entrance, those huge stones and carved as animals and other creatures will welcome you. Then inside the structure are galleries of paintings and other art forms. Eloi really liked the butterfly paintings on the wall which was really nice for any photo opportunity.

READ: Best Hostels in La Union

How to get to Bahay na Bato and Stone Hand Art Gallery

From San Juan, La Union, Ride a jeepney going to Luna for PHP 30 and ride a tricycle going to Balay na Bato (Stone House) for PHP 50.

There you have it. There are still a lot of tourist spots in La Union that deserve to be explored like Pugad Pugo Adventure and Tapuakan River in Pugo, La Union among others.In time, I’ll be able to visit there and discover more of La Union!

7. THUNDERBIRD RESORTS AND CASINOS

Okay. We weren’t able to get inside the resort when we were there because we had no time. And the 150 pesos entrance fee that would let you go inside just to take some photos is something that all debated if worthy or not. LOL!

Seriously, it was just a few more minutes before sunset and we were left with one dilemma choose between the Grape Farm or Thunder Bird? And obviously, the Grape Farm won.

Outside the resort, one could really feel the Greek and Mediterranean inspiration of the structures. It’s actually a high-end resort with pools, restaurants, and casino. It would be nice if time and budget permit you explore this resort as a legit guest. You know what I mean? And not just be there for a photo op. Honestly, I was happy that we chose Grape Farm over this, but it doesn’t mean that Thunderbird if something that you need to miss.

If you have the money, go and experience this luxury.

How to get to Thunderbird Resort La Union

If you’re from Manila, take a bus going to Vigan or Laoag. Bus companies like Florida, Dominion, Farinas, Viron, and Partas have trips bound there. Tell the driver or bus attendant that you’re going to Thunderbird Resort and the drop-off point is at the Poro Poro Point, San Fernando. Resort is just near the place.  In case you’re at the San Fernando proper, it’s just a 10 minute jeepney ride going to Poro Poro Point.

[READ: Top 10 Beach Resorts in La Union ]

Take the NLEX or North Luzon Expressway and SCTEX or Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway. Then go to the route of the National Highway going to San Fernando. Once you get to San Fernando, turn left to Pennsylvania Avenue. The landmark is the Monument of the unknown Soldiers. Go straight until you reach and enter the Poro Point Freeport Zone. Just a few more minutes, you’ll reach Thunderbird Resorts. Gate is on the left side of the road.

Note: First published in 2018. Updated for 2022

La Union Map

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Thank you so much for sharing, this is very informative! I had never heard of La Union. So many cool places to visit in the Philippines. Hope I can explore there someday.

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The 13 Best La Union Tourist Spots – Hidden Gems

La Union is a hidden gem located in the northern part of the Philippines. This province may be small, but it has much to offer travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience. Known as the “Surfing Capital of the North,” La Union is a surfer’s paradise, with waves attracting surfers worldwide. But there’s more to La Union than just surfing. The province is home to breathtaking waterfalls, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes that will leave you in awe.

Its rich cultural heritage is also something to marvel at, with historic landmarks and festivals that showcase the province’s unique traditions and customs. From the Luna Watchtower to the annual Sillag Festival, La Union is a destination that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a beach bum, La Union has something for everyone. 

So come and explore this beautiful province and discover the top 15 La Union tourist spots.

Table of Contents

1. “ELYU” San Juan Beach, La Union

“Elyu” is a popular nickname for the town of San Juan in La Union, Philippines. San Juan is known for its beautiful beaches and world-class surf spots, making it a favorite destination among surfers and beachgoers alike. In recent years, San Juan has also become a hub for creative and artistic communities, attracting artists, writers, and entrepreneurs who have set up unique cafes, galleries, and shops.

Elyu has a vibrant nightlife scene, with beachside bars and clubs that offer a lively atmosphere and great music. Foodies will also find something to love in Elyu, with a wide range of local and international cuisines available. San Juan is also home to the annual “Soul Surf” music and arts festival, which brings together local and international artists for a weekend of music, art, and surfing. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, explore the local art scene, or simply unwind and enjoy the beach, Elyu in La Union is a destination that won’t disappoint. 

2. Gapuz Grapes Farm

Gapuz Grapes Farm is a family-owned farm located in Bauang, La Union, Philippines. The farm is known for its unique grape varieties, including the popular seedless “Delano” grapes and the rare “Black Ruby” grapes. The farm offers visitors a chance to experience grape picking and other farm activities, making it a fun and educational activity for families and friends.

Aside from grape picking, Gapuz Grapes Farm also offers tours where visitors can learn about the farm’s grape cultivation process, as well as taste the freshly picked grapes. The farm also has a small store where visitors can purchase fresh grapes, as well as grape-based products such as grape juice, wine, and vinegar.

The Gapuz Grapes Farm is open to the public from November to May, which is the grape season in La Union. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor activities. The farm is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a popular stop for tourists visiting La Union. If you’re looking for a unique and enjoyable experience in La Union, a visit to the Gapuz Grapes Farm is definitely worth considering 

3. Kamay na Bato

Kamay na Bato Open Art Gallery is a unique art space located in the town of Bagulin in La Union, Philippines. The gallery features a collection of sculptures, paintings, and other artworks created by local artists, making it a showcase of the region’s rich artistic heritage. The name “Kamay na Bato” translates to “Hand of Stone,” which refers to the traditional method of sculpting used by the artists featured in the gallery. The gallery is housed in a restored ancestral home, adding to its charm and cultural significance.

Visitors to the Kamay na Bato Open Art Gallery can explore the different artworks on display, learn about the techniques used by the artists, and even watch live demonstrations of sculpture-making. The gallery also hosts workshops and art classes, allowing visitors to learn from and interact with local artists. In addition to its impressive collection of artworks, the Kamay na Bato Open Art Gallery features a stunning garden and outdoor seating area, creating a serene environment where visitors can unwind and take in the beauty of the art and natural surroundings.

4. Ma-Cho Temple (Taoist Temple)

Ma-Cho Temple is a Taoist temple located in the town of San Fernando in La Union, Philippines. The temple is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess, Mazu, also known as Ma-Cho, who is believed to protect seafarers and fishermen. The temple’s architecture features traditional Chinese design elements, with intricate carvings and colorful tiles.

The temple grounds also offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Aside from its religious significance, the Ma-Cho Temple is also a cultural landmark, attracting visitors from all over the world who are interested in Chinese culture and traditions.

Visitors can light incense and offer prayers to Mazu, and even have their fortune told by the temple’s resident fortune teller. The Ma-Cho Temple is open to the public and welcomes visitors of all faiths. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and admission is free. If you’re interested in experiencing a slice of Chinese culture and spirituality, a visit to the Ma-Cho Temple is definitely worth considering when you’re in La Union.

5. Baluarte Watch Tower

Baluarte Watch Tower is a historic landmark located in the town of Luna in La Union, Philippines. The tower was built in the 16th century by the Spanish colonial authorities as part of a network of watchtowers used to monitor the coastline and defend against attacks by pirates and other invaders.

The Baluarte Watch Tower stands at a height of 66 feet and features a cylindrical shape with thick walls made of limestone blocks. The tower also has a small entrance and spiral staircase leading to the top, where visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.

Besides its rich historical significance and impressive architectural design, the Baluarte Watch Tower has also become a top destination for photography aficionados, who are enticed by its unique shape and the awe-inspiring natural scenery that envelops it. The Baluarte Watch Tower is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and admission is free. The tower is located near other historical landmarks such as the Luna Church and the Luna Park, making it a great stop for visitors interested in exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage.

6. Immuki Island

Immuki Island is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Balaoan in La Union, Philippines. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand beaches, and lush vegetation. The island is a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing day in a secluded paradise.

Visitors can take a boat tour of the island, which usually includes a stop for snorkeling and swimming in the clear waters surrounding the island. Aside from its natural beauty, Immuki Island is also home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the colorful coral reefs and swim alongside schools of tropical fish. As the island is uninhabited, there are no facilities or accommodations available on the island, so visitors are advised to bring their food and drinks, as well as any necessary gear for snorkeling or diving. Despite this, the island remains a popular destination for those seeking a secluded and peaceful escape amid natural beauty.

7. Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos Poro Point

Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos Poro Point is a luxurious resort located in the scenic town of San Fernando in La Union, Philippines. The resort is nestled atop a cliff overlooking the West Philippine Sea, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.

The resort features world-class accommodations, including spacious rooms and suites, all of which are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The resort also boasts a range of facilities, including a casino, a golf course, a spa, and several restaurants and bars serving delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks. Apart from its luxurious accommodations and facilities.

Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos Poro Point is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities available, including hiking, biking, and watersports such as surfing and kayaking. The resort is easily accessible by car or public transportation and is located near other popular attractions in La Union, such as the Ma-Cho Temple and the Baluarte Watch Tower. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or an outdoor adventure, Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos Poro Point in La Union is an ideal destination that offers the perfect combination of relaxation, entertainment, and natural beauty.

8. Pindangan Ruins

The Pindangan Ruins is a historic site located in San Fernando, La Union, Philippines. The site is the remains of a church and convent that were destroyed by fire in the late 1800s during the Philippine Revolution. Despite its ruined state, the Pindangan Ruins remain an important landmark and tourist attraction in La Union, as it serves as a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visitors to the site can explore the ruins and marvel at the architectural design and craftsmanship that went into its construction. The site also features a small museum, which showcases artifacts and relics that were recovered from the ruins during excavation. These include pottery, tiles, and religious artifacts, which provide a glimpse into the everyday life of the people who once inhabited the area.

The Pindangan Ruins are a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts and are easily accessible by car or public transportation. Visitors can also participate in guided tours, which provide a more in-depth understanding of the site’s historical significance and cultural heritage. Overall, the Pindangan Ruins are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Philippine history and culture, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past and a unique perspective on the region’s rich cultural heritage.

9. Occalong Falls

Occalong Falls is a stunning natural wonder located in the municipality of Luna in La Union, Philippines. The waterfall is hidden deep within the lush forest and is accessible via a short trek through the jungle. The falls feature a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools, which are perfect for swimming, diving, and enjoying the cool, refreshing water.

The waterfall is surrounded by towering trees, lush vegetation, and wildlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. To reach the falls, visitors must navigate a rocky and steep trail, which can be challenging for some. However, the effort is well worth it, as the waterfall and the surrounding natural beauty are truly breathtaking.

Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike, as there are no facilities or amenities near the falls. The waterfall is also located in a protected area, so visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles and take care not to disturb the natural environment. Occalong Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in natural beauty.

10. Lotus Valley Farm

Lotus Valley Farm is a picturesque eco-tourism destination situated in the scenic town of San Juan, La Union. The farm is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and is known for its vast lotus pond, which is one of the largest in the country. Visitors to the farm can explore the lush gardens and admire the stunning lotus flowers in full bloom.

There are also several other attractions on the farm, including a fishpond, an apiary, and a butterfly garden. One of the main attractions of Lotus Valley Farm is the lotus pond, which spans over three hectares and is home to thousands of lotus plants. Visitors can take a relaxing boat ride on the pond or simply walk along the pathways to enjoy the serene beauty of the lotus flowers.

 In addition to its natural beauty, the farm also features a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including fishing, horseback riding, and even zip-lining. There are also picnic areas and cottages available for those who wish to stay longer and enjoy the farm’s peaceful atmosphere. Lotus Valley Farm is an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning natural beauty and wide range of activities, the farm is sure to provide visitors with a unique and unforgettable experience.

11. Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity

The Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity, also known as the Agoo Basilica, is a prominent Roman Catholic church located in the town of Agoo, La Union. It is considered one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the country and draws thousands of devotees each year. The church was first built in 1578 and underwent several renovations and reconstructions throughout its history. The current structure was completed in 1975 and was declared a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1982. The basilica is known for its stunning architecture, which features a mixture of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic styles.

 The interior of the church is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and religious art. The main attraction of the basilica is the miraculous image of Our Lady of Charity, which is believed to have healing powers. It is displayed on the main altar and is the centerpiece of many religious celebrations and processions.

Visitors to the basilica are welcome to attend daily mass and explore the church’s grounds. The basilica is also surrounded by a bustling market, where visitors can buy souvenirs and local delicacies. 

12. Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is a scenic and unique coastal attraction located in the town of Luna, La Union. This beach is characterized by its vast expanse of smooth and polished pebbles of various colors, shapes, and sizes, giving it a distinct charm and texture. Unlike other beaches in the area, Pebble Beach is relatively secluded and quiet, making it an ideal spot for a serene and peaceful getaway.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, appreciating the natural beauty of the beach and its surrounding cliffs and hills. The beach is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts who come to capture the striking contrast between the pebbles and the turquoise waters of the sea.

The beach’s picturesque and unique beauty has also made it a favorite location for film and television shoots. While swimming is not recommended at Pebble Beach due to the strong waves and rocky seabed, visitors can still enjoy other activities such as rock climbing, fishing, and camping.

The beach is equipped with basic amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas, making it an excellent destination for day trips and picnics with family and friends. Pebble Beach is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway amidst the natural wonders of La Union. 

13. Tangadan Falls

Nestled in the enchanting town of San Gabriel in the province of La Union, Philippines, lies a natural gem that captivates visitors with its pristine beauty and serene ambiance — Tangadan Falls . Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by towering cliffs, this breathtaking waterfall is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, La Union’s tourist spots are sure to provide a memorable and enriching travel experience.

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Top 37 Best La Union Tourist Spots: Best Things to do

Popular la union tourist attractions.

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Bucket List: Things to Do and Popular Tourist Spots in La Union Province

Table of Contents

La Union is known for its beaches and beautiful swells of waves, making it an ideal surfing destination. Visitors can check out many La Union Tourist Spots; the province has something to offer everyone.

Its vibrant local culture and breathtaking landscapes offer beach lovers and adventure seekers a perfect getaway. Visit the famous surfing destinations of San Juan and Urbiztondo, where you can ride the waves or take surfing lessons. Explore the charming town of Pugo, known for its strawberry farms and picturesque views. Don’t miss the chance to try the local delicacies, such as the famous Ilocano dishes and fresh seafood. La Union promises an unforgettable travel experience with its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty.

From centuries-old watchtowers, galleries teeming with local talent, and studios where visitors can bring out their creative side, La Union is the perfect vacation destination for those who want a break from the hustle of the city. Here’s our list of the best La Union Tourist Spots:

NORTH LA UNION TOURIST SPOTS

Bangar abel weaving.

Bangar, La Union is famous for its products called “inabel” which the locals have been creating for generations. Visitors can watch the traditional weaving technique that loom weavers use with antique wooden weaving equipment. Some of the hand-woven products that local loom weavers create are blankets, table runners, and shawls.

Location: San Flaviano, Bangar, La Union

Red Clay Pagdamilian

Red Clay Pagdamilian & Souvenir Shop is a popular pottery studio highlighting local citizens’ works. Visitors can make a reservation to get a pottery lesson from the studio. The root word of the studio, “damili” translates to “the art of pottery making” in the Ilokano dialect.

Location: MacArthur Highway, Barangay Taboc, San Juan, La Union Visiting Hours: 8AM to 5PM, Monday to Saturday *Schedule may change without prior notice.

Immuki Island

Composed of small lagoons held together by corals, Immuki Island is the perfect place for visitors looking to avoid crowded locations. The ivory sand is mixed with seashells and pebbles, so visitors are advised to bring aqua slippers for protection from sharp corals.

Location: Barangay Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union Visiting Hours: 6AM – 6PM (Daily) Rates: Environmental Fee: Php20 per person Balsa Rental, 5-7 pax: Php250 Shower Fee: Php10 per person

*Rates may change without prior notice.

SOUTH LA UNION TOURIST SPOTS

Agoo eco fun world.

Launched in 2014, the Agoo Eco Fun World draws locals and visitors to its manmade forest of Agoho trees, the stunning view of Mount Katayagan, and the beach that faces the Lingayen Gulf. Visitors can enjoy a picnic, watch the sunset, swim in the lagoon, or walk around and appreciate the Agoo trees.

Location: Agoo Eco Fun World, Barangay Santa Rita West, Agoo, La Union Rates: Environmental Fee: Php15 (Adult); Php10 (Senior & PWD); FREE (Children below 3 feet) Parking Fee: Php10 (Tricycle, Motorcycle); Php20 (Other Vehicles) Rental Fees: Php500 (Big Cottage); Php1,500 (Pavilion) *Rates may change without prior notice.

Kudlap View Deck and Kudal People’s Park

The cool atmosphere in Kudlap View Deck and Kudal People’s Park is similar to that in Baguio, earning its nickname “Bagulin’s Little Baguio.” Kudal People’s Park is a nature conservation park preserved by the municipality of Bagulin to promote tourism. The park is a popular destination for cyclists from neighboring towns.

Location: Tagudtud, Bagulin, La Union

SAN FERNANDO TOURIST SPOTS

Christ the redeemer statue.

Standing 25 feet tall, this statue of Christ was inaugurated in 2007 and symbolizes gratitude, blessings, and protection. Visitors have to hike a path leading to the hilltop, where there is a panoramic view of San Fernando City.

Location: Reservoir Hill, Barangay I, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Ma-Cho Temple

A Taoist temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, Ma-Cho Temple is a seven-story temple with many places to see, including the Bamboo Garden, the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower, the Majestic Five-Door Gate, and the Liang Thing Pagoda.

Location: Ma-Cho Temple, Quezon Avenue, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 7AM to 5PM, Daily Entrance Fee: FREE *Rates and schedules may change without prior notice.

Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda

The Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda offers local and foreign travelers a scenic view of San Fernando City. This pagoda was built to commemorate the neighborly relations between the Filipinos and the Chinese people.

Location: Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda, Aguila Road, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

VISIT THE MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES

Bahay na bato.

This art gallery, located on the pebble beach of Barangay Nalvo Norte, showcases Filipino artifacts. Teeming with different sculptures, this is an excellent destination for day trips. There is a garden spruced up with trees that serve as a canopy from the heat of the afternoon sun.

Location: Bahay na Bato, Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union Visiting Hours: 7AM to 6PM, Daily. Entrance Fee: Php50; FREE (Children below 2 years old) *Rates and schedules may change without prior notice.

Bato de Luna

Owned by a South Korean sculptor, this art gallery houses unique art pieces and stone figures by the owner, with a big turtle statue greeting its visitors. Bato de Luna is located not too far from Bahay na Bato.

Location: Bato de Luna, Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union Visiting Hours: 7AM to 6PM, Daily Entrance Fee: Php50 *Rates and schedules may change without prior notice.

Museo de Iloko

Commonly known as ‘presedencia’ of the Agoo, Museo de Iloko is one of the greatest museums in La Union that house Ilokano cultural artifacts.

Location: Agoo, La Union Visiting Hours: 8AM to 5PM, Monday to Friday

TAKE A TOUR OF LA UNION’S CHURCHES

Basilica minore of our lady of charity.

The Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity was founded by the Franciscan order in 1578 and officially opened to the public in 1978 but an earthquake in 1990 destroyed the church’s bell tower. Today, the minor basilica has two bell towers and a chapel that houses the holy relics of saints.

Location: Grotto Road corner MacArthur Highway, Poblacion, Agoo, La Union

Cathedral of St. William the Hermit

The Cathedral of St. William the Hermit, known as San Fernando Cathedral, is headquartered in the Roman Catholic Diocese of La Union. The church retained its original facade after World War II. St. William the Hermit is the patron saint of the church.

Location: San Fernando, La Union

St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish , The Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan

The St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish is known for housing the Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan. The church is popular for its woman-like and sweet architecture. St. Catherine of Alexandria is the patron saint of the town of Luna.

Location: Namacpacan Road, Luna, 2518 La Union

St. Michael the Archangel Church

The neoclassical and baroque architecture of the church and the huge bell tower in front of the church with inscriptions dating back to 1874 belongs to Bacnotan Church, commonly known as the St. Michael the Archangel Church. The church’s name honors its patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel.

Location: St. Michael the Archangel Church Grounds, Bacnotan, La Union

HISTORICAL SITES

Pindangan ruins.

The Pindangan Ruins are what remains of the first Catholic church in San Fernando City. It is located near the sea, vulnerable to foreign invasion, before the town’s place of worship was relocated. It is not being managed and maintained by the Carmelite Sisters, who live adjacent to the property.

Location: Pindangan, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 8AM to 5PM, Daily Entrance Fee: Php25 (Regular); Php20 (Senior/Student) *Rates and schedules may change without prior notice.

Baluarte Watch Tower

One of the historic watchtowers in La Union, the 400-year-old Baluarte Watch Tower, was declared National Cultural Treasure by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2014. Located on a pebble beach, the restored watchtower is a popular tourist spot with a café nearby.

Location: Barangay Victoria, Luna, La Union Visiting Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Bacsil Ridge

Located away from the city, Bacsil Ridge is one of the most famous battle sites in the province. It commemorates the battle during the Japanese Occupation. During the late afternoon, visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere of this historical site.

Location: F. Ortega Highway, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 12AM to 12PM, Daily

Poro Point Lighthouse

One of La Union’s historical landmarks, the Poro Point Lighthouse, dates back to 1905 during the American occupation and stands 27 feet tall. The lighthouse is a point of interest in the Poro Point Freeport Zone and is located across Poro Point Baywalk, where locals and visitors walk around to or watch the sunset.

Location: Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

HAVE FUN AND EXPLORE THE NATURE PARKS

Pugad pugo adventure.

Enshrouded in the mountainous landscape of La Union, this adventure park features a botanical garden, swimming pools, and lots of activities for adults and children alike. Visitors can ride an ATV, do wall climbing, or play paintball.

Location: PUGAD Pugo Adventure, Pugo, La Union Visiting Hours: 8AM to 6PM, Daily Entrance Fee, including access to swimming pools: Php200 (Adults); Php150 (Kids 4 feet below); FREE (Kids 2 feet below)

Activities: Zipline 1-3: Php250-400 ATV: Php350 per person Wall Climbing: Php150 per person Giant Swing: Php250 per person Australian Rundown: Php250 per person Paintball: Php400 per person

*Rates and schedules may change without prior notice.

La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden

This paradise of beautiful flowers is a great escape from city life. The botanical garden showcases different themed gardens and serves as a sanctuary for wildlife animals. Some of the different themed gardens are Shade Garden, Sunken Garden, Evergreen Garden, Arid Paradise, Fragrance Garden, Fernery, and Palmery.

Location: San Fernando, La Union Visiting hours: 8AM to 5PM, Daily

HIKE THE FALLS OF LA UNION

Tangadan falls.

Tangadan Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls among all waterfalls in La Union. It is a two-tiered waterfall with its own natural pool, and the upper tier is known as an excellent cliff diving spot. Visitors must hike to get to the waterfalls, and the elevation gain is 100 meters.

Location: Barangay Amontoc, San Gabriel, La Union Visiting Hours: 6AM to 5PM, Daily Rates: Environmental Fee: Php30 per person Guide Fee: Php500 *Rates may change without prior notice.

Occalong Falls

Occalong Falls is frequented by locals because it is accessible by public transport, but the falls is hidden enough that visitors should ask locals for direction. Visitors will need to take an uphill climb to reach the waterfalls and, once there, can admire the natural beauty of Occalong Falls.

Location: Luna, La Union Visiting Hours: 5AM to 7PM, Daily

Tuddingan Falls

Tuddingan Falls is another waterfall in the province that visitors must hike to access. The trail to the falls is lined with trees, and the short hike will be rewarded with the refreshing waters from the fall and the relaxing, stress-free environment.

Location: Barangay Tuddingan, Naguilian, La Union

RECONNECT WITH MOTHER NATURE AND TOUR THE FARMS

La Union is home to many vineyards since the 1970s, most of which are family-owned. The province is also a premier farm tour destination. The best time to pick grapes is during the dry season, from March to May.

Gapuz Grapes Farm

Established in the 1980s by Danny Gapuz by planting a grape variety called White Malaga and Black Ribier, it became popular in 2011 after the Gapuz Farm Facebook page was published. The entrance fee to the farm is free, and visitors only pay for the products they buy.

Location: Barangay MacArthur Highway, Bauang, 2501 La Union Visiting Hours: 7AM to 5PM, Daily Rates: Entrance Fee: FREE

Lomboy Farms

Established in 1972 by Avelino Lomboy, Lomboy Farms is considered to have introduced viticulture in the region. Nowadays, the farm has expanded towards cultivating dragon fruit and guapples.

Location: Urayong, Bauang, La Union Visiting Hours: 7AM to 4PM, Daily Rates: Entrance Fee: Php100 per person Grape Picking Activity: Php350 per kilo

Lotus Valley Farm

This nature paradise of edible, medicinal, and ornamental plants is perfect for visitors looking for a quiet place to marvel at. The farm features a sunflower farm, a lotus flower plant garden, and a stream that helps supply the barangay’s water. Visitors can enjoy health-related activities here, like yoga, acupuncture, and meditation.

Location: Sitio Kasilagan, Dasaya, San Juan, La Union

GO BEACH HOPPING AND SURF THE LA UNION WAVES

Nalvo pebble beach.

Nalvo Pebble Beach is known for the art galleries in the area and its shore covered in pebbles instead of fine sand.

Location: Nalvo Norte and Nalvo Sur, Luna, La Union

Darigayos Beach

Unlike Nalvo Pebble Beach, Darigayos Beach is not pebbly, but the sand is not fine either. The waves are calmer for visitors looking to swim, and the bay is known for having a consistent break around, ideal for surfing.

Location: Darigayos Beach, Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Road, Luna, La Union

Urbiztondo Beach

A premier surfing spot for surfers of all levels, Urbiztondo Beach also has surfing schools for visitors interested in the sport. Waves are at their best from July to March. Besides surfing, Urbiztondo Beach is popular for its wide bed of sand and the beautiful sunset from the shore.

Location: Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan, La Union

Monaliza Point

Located in front of the Point Break is Monaliza Surf Resort, which offers its guests surfing lessons and surfing board rentals. The waves at Monaliza Point are ideal for advanced surfers.

Location: National Highway, San Juan, La Union

INDULGE OVER LA UNION’S FOOD SCENE

Tagpuan sa san juan.

Known for their Bagnet Rice Bowl, Tagpuan has a specialized menu offering Filipino cuisine like tapa and pares.

Location: Manila North Rd., Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan, La Union Visiting Hours: 8AM to 12AM, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays; 8AM to 2AM, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays Menu: Filipino Cuisine

El Union Coffee

Famous for its Indoor S’mores, Cold Brew, and Horchata, El Union Coffee popularized handcrafted coffee in the area.

Location: Kilometre 274 MacArthur Highway, Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union Visiting Hours: 8AM to 6PM, Daily except for Wednesdays Menu: Coffee, Dessert

Halo Halo de Iloko

This halo-halo restaurant is popular among locals and visitors, serving Filipino cuisine and dessert. The place is packed during peak hours, and the designated parking space is too far, so it is advised to come during the off-hours.

Location: 12 Zandueta, San Fernando, La Union Visiting Hours: 9AM-9PM, Daily Menu: Halo-halo, Filipino Cuisine

STAY IN LA UNION’S POPULAR RESORTS

Thunderbird poro point resort.

Click here for more photos, rates, reviews, and availability.

Thunderbird Poro Point Resort is popular for its Santorini-inspired architecture. The resort has opened its premises to day-trip visitors where visitors can see art installations like Urban Light, similar to the one in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and a field of LED Roses, similar to the ones in Cebu.

Location: Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernand, La Union

San Juan Surf Resort

San Juan Surf Resort is popular for housing San Juan Surf School, one of the best surfing schools in the Philippines, founded by Luke Landrigan, one of the first Filipinos to gain a Bronze Medallion for Surf Rescue in Australia.

Location: Urbiztondo, San Juan, MacArthur Highway, San Fernando, La Union

Kahuna Hotel and Resort

Kahuna Hotel and Resort is another resort where visitors can learn to surf. The resort has partnered with La Union Surf School, one of the best surfing schools in the Philippines and certified by the Academy of Surfing Instructors in Australia.

Location: National Highway, Barangay Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union

Experience the best of La Union, Philippines. From the stunning beaches and world-class surfing to the vibrant local culture, you’ll be enthralled by the beauty of this destination. Explore San Juan and Urbiztondo for some of the best waves in the world, savor the delicious Ilocano cuisine, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a beach lover or an adventure seeker, La Union is the perfect destination for an unforgettable travel experience.

Best Time to Visit La Union

The best time to visit La Union, Philippines, is during the dry season, typically between November and April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall and more sunny days. It is ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring beautiful beaches, surfing, and participating in water sports. However, remember that La Union is a popular tourist destination, so expect larger crowds during peak season.

How to Get to La Union

To travel to La Union, Philippines, you can follow these transportation options: By Air

Fly to Manila

Book a flight to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, the largest international airport in the Philippines.

Transfer to La Union

You can take a domestic flight from NAIA to Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte, the nearest airport to La Union. Alternatively, you can take a bus or arrange private transport from Manila directly to La Union.

Bus: From Manila, you can take a bus from the Cubao or Pasay terminal heading to La Union. Several bus companies operate daily trips to various towns in La Union, such as San Fernando, Bauang, and Agoo.

Car: If you prefer to drive, you can take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) or the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) from Manila. You can continue on the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) until you reach your destination in La Union.

Also read: Ultimate List Of The Best Hotels And Beach Resorts In La Union, Philippines

Written by Team Out of Town

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Discover La Union Tourist Spots and Experiences

From the majestic San Juan Surf Beach to the unique Tangadan Falls, La Union has something for everyone. Experience nature’s beauty and explore the region’s top tourist attractions. Discover stunning scenery, breathtaking views, and amazing adventures on your next trip to La Union.

ABOUT LA UNION

La Union is one of the favorite tourist destinations in the Philippines . It’s a place with beautiful beaches, rich culture and traditions, and stunning landscapes.

La Union province in the Philippines is located on the island of Luzon’s Ilocos Region. La Union, which translates to “The Union,” was founded in 1850 by bringing together settlements from the neighboring provinces of Ilocos Sur , Pangasinan , and Benguet . San Fernando is the country La Union’s capital.

La Union is also known as the Garden Coast due to its Botanical Gardens in San Fernando, which feature flora and fauna native to the Philippines , including a Fernery, Palmery, Fragrance Garden, Sunken Garden, Evergreen Garden, Arid Paradise, and a Shade Garden.

San Juan, the surfing capital of Luzon’s west coast, is located in the beach town of La Union. Aside from its beautiful waves, this laid-back region has outstanding natural attractions, historical landmarks, and a thriving culinary scene.

HOW TO GET TO LA UNION

• Take one of the bus companies that leave from Manila terminals every hour: Dominion Bus Lines, Philippine Rabbit, Partas, Fariñas, Maria de Leon, and Viron. The destinations
• San Fernando, the Capital of La Union, is 273 kilometers from Manila , which takes about 5 hours by land or 30 minutes by air, and is about an hour’s drive from Baguio City .

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LA UNION

Because surfing is the main reason tourists visit La Union, the best time to explore is during the surf season, which runs from July to October due to the South Swell and November to March due to the North Swell.

FESTIVALS IN LA UNION

• Dinengdeng Festival The Dinengdeng Festival is the official celebration of La Union’s Agoo district. It honors the dish that inspired its name. One of the primary goals of the Dinengdeng Festival is to promote neighborhood tourism in the town, which is one of the district’s established Spanish settlements. Dinengdeng is an Ilocano word that refers to any vegetable-based dish. Traditionally cooked in a “banga,” a local term for a cooking earth pot used by relatives of early pioneers. Location: Agoo Date: Last week of April to 1st-week o May) – Agoo

LIST OF THE BEST TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN LA UNION

• Acapulco Beach
• Bacnotan Beaches
• Bahay na Bato
• Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity
• Bauang Beach
• Bulalakaw Falls
• Centennial Tree
• Christ the Redeemer Statue
• Csi Mall La Union
• Dupag Rock Formation
• Gapuz Grapes Farm
• Honeybee Center
• Immuki Island
• Kamay na Bato
• Kultura Splash Wave Mountain Resort
• La Union Botanical Garden
• Lomboy Farms
• Lussok Crystal Cave
• Ma – Cho Temple
• Namacpacan Church
• Night Market SFC
• Occalong Falls
• Orpilla-Estigoy Grapes Farm
• Pagoda Hill
• Pindangan Ruins
• Poro Point Baywalk
• Poro Point Lighthouse
• Shrine of Our Lady of Charity
• Silid ti Adal Ken Laing ti La Union Gallery
• St. John the Baptist
• St. Peter and Paul Parish
• St. William The Hermit Cathedral
• Sts Peter and Paul Parish
• Tangadan Falls
• Tapuakan River
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

BEST THINGS TO DO IN LA UNION

• Buang Beach is a great place to unwind.
• Relax at the beach.
• Climb up Pagoda Hill
• Explore the Pindangan Ruins.
• Go Grape Picking
• Go on a food trip and enjoy the nightlife in Urbiztondo
• Greek out at Thunderbird Resort
• Hike to Tangadan Falls
• Learn to surf in San Juan
• Honor the miraculous Apo Caridad.
• Discover Inabel at Balay Ni Atong.
• Walk through the La Union Botanical Garden.
• Try Bar Crawling.
• Try Cliff Jumping.
• Visit Ma-Cho Temple and admire the view.
• Relax at Luna Pebble Beach
• The La Union Cultural and Arts Gallery is a must-see.
• You can observe honeybees going about their daily lives at the Honeybee Center.

THE BEST MUST-TRY FOODS IN LA UNION

• Bukel utong with parya
• Filipino-inspired Flavored Ice Cream
• Halo-Halo de Ilok
• Ilocano express
• Jumping salad
• Naguilian Basi
• Sabong Fried Chicken

THE BEST PRODUCTS TO BUY IN LA UNION

• Agoo Mushroom.
• Aringay Bangus (Milkfish)
• Bacnotan Honey.
• Bagulin Softbroom.
• Balaoan Sea Urchin.
• Bangar Handloom Weaving.
• Bauang Grape Farm.
• Burgos Colored Softbrooms.
• Caba Bamboo Industry
• Luna Pebble Beach
• Pugo Furnishing Products
• Rosario Furnitures
• San Fernando City Softbroom
• San Gabriel Highland Veggie
• San Juan Pottery
• Santol Labtang Baskets
• Sto. Tomas Daing
• Sudipen Baskets

BEST RESORT HOTELS IN LA UNION

• Kahuna Beach Resort

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La union itinerary: 10 best la union tourist spots and things to do (travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers).

Planning a trip to La Union this 2024? Here's my La Union travel guide blog to help you decide on what to do in La Union and to find the best La Union tourist spots to include in your itinerary.

2024 la union travel guide blog for first-timers (updated) - things to do in la union, tourist spots & places to visit, things to do in la union, tourist spots & places to visit.

1. Surfing in Urbiztondo, San Juan

Top hotels and resorts in san juan la union.

• Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel - √ See room rates and photos
• The Escape San Juan - √ See room rates and photos
• Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa - √ See room rates and photos
• The Little Surfmaid Resort - √ See room rates and photos
• Sebay Surf Central Resort - √ See room rates and photos
• SEARCH MORE - √ Click here to see other hotels and resorts in San Juan, La Union

2. Indulge over Halo-halo de Iloko

3. Visit and Be Amazed at Ma-Cho Temple

4. Have a relaxing stay at Thunderbird Resort

5. Climb up Pagoda Hill

6. Discover Tangadan Falls and Baroro River

7. Gon on La Union North Tour

North la union tourist spots highlights.

• Bangar Abel Weaving
• Baluarte Watch Tower
• Luna Pebble Beach
• Immuki Island
• Bato de Luna
• Paraoir Man Made Forest
• Darigayos Cove
• San Juan Pottery

8. Go on La Union South Tour

South la union tourist spots highlights.

• Bagulin - Kudal View Deck
• Ciano Umok Gallery
• Agoo Eco-Fun World
• Sta. Rita Lake
• Bauang Grapes Farms
• Thunderbird Resort
• Baywalk at Poro Point

9. La Union Pilgrimage Tour

• Go on a spiritual journey and discover La Union's pilgrimage sites with this full-day tour!
• TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Visit century old churches and shrines such as St. Catherine de Alexandria, Saint Michael the Archangel Church, Cathedral of St. William the Hermit, Pindangan Ruins, and many more.
• The tour package includes admission to attractions, transportation, meals and beverages, DOT-accredited tour guide, bottled water and free souvenir.

10. Bauang Beach, Hotels and Resort

Top hotels & beach resorts in bauang.

• Marand Resort and Spa by Cocotel - √ See room rates and photos
• Bella's Beach Resort - Right on the Beach! - √ See room rates and photos
• Cococay Resort Hotel - √ See room rates and photos
• Hotel Ariana - √ See room rates and photos
• SEARCH MORE - √ Click here to see other hotels and resorts in Bauang, La Union

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN LA UNION

• Aqua Farm Tour in La Union - Get a glimpse of La Union’s farm life with this interactive aqua farm day tour!
• Serenity Beach Retreat in La Union - Reset your mind, body, and soul with this yoga & healing retreat in La Union that seamlessly fuses work-life elements.
• Beachiserapi in San Juan, La Union - Reconnect with your mind and body with Beachiserapi, an ideal beach healing activity which involves walking along the beach, coupled with yoga to relieve your anxiety and stress.

SEARCH FOR MORE HOTELS & BEACH RESORTS IN LA UNION!

Sample la union itineraries, 2d/1n: sample la union itinerary (2 days and 1 night), for a quick weekend getaway or overnight trip, here is my suggested 2 days and 1 night la union itinerary., day 1 - arrival, surfing & beach bumming.

• Arrival in San Juan, La Union
• Hotel/Resort Check-in √ See hotels and resorts in La Union here
• Learn how to surf
• Enjoy Urbiztondo Beach
• Watch the sunset
• Enjoy La Union's night scenes
• Back at the hotel

DAY 2 - MA-CHO TEMPLE, HALO-HALO DE ILOKO & DEPARTURE

• Breakfast at the resort/hotel
• Enjoy the hotel/resort facilities
• Visit Ma-Cho Temple
• Lunch at Halo-halo de Iloko
• Visit Pagoda Hill
• Visit Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

3D2N Sample La Union Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)

If you have a long weekend or 3 days and 2 nights to spend in la union, here is my recommended itinerary. filled with top tourist spots in la union, you may adjust it depending on your the things to do in la union you want to experience., day 2 - tangadan falls, baroro river & luna [ book this tour ].

• Breakfast at the resort
• Proceed to San Gabriel, La Union
• Arrival at San Gabriel Plaza, Register
• Proceed to Tangadan Falls via Jeep
• Trek to Tangadan Falls
• Arrival at Tangadan Falls
• Enjoy free time swimming and explore the area
• Departure from Tangadan Falls
• Arrival San Gabriel Plaza
• Proceed to Riverfarm and Seafood Restaurant in Bacnotan
• Experiencing fishing or River Cruise
• Proceed to Baluarte Watch Tower in Luna
• Arrival at Baluarte Watch Tower, explore and take photos
• Stroll along the Pebble Beach
• Departure from Luna
• Back at the hotel/resort

DAY 3 - MA-CHO TEMPLE, HALO-HALO DE ILOKO & DEPARTURE

Also read: sample la union itineraries for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour or more, la union travel requirements for tourists, if you're planning to travel to la union, here are the travel requirements you need to secure before your trip..

• Approved Tara Na! travel request and QR Coded Tourist Pass (QTP). Register and schedule travel within a minimum of 5 working days before travel. And don't forget to save and/or print your QTP.
• Negative RT-PCR or PRC saliva test result issued three (3) days prior to arrival.
• Booking confirmation from a DOT-accredited, La Union-based, travel agency.
• Valid government-issued ID.

TIPS & REMINDERS: LA UNION TRAVEL GUIDELINES

• Be sure to book in advance your hotel or beach resort in La Union to save on travel expenses and to get discounts on room rates. Also, booking in advance and reserving your accommodation, assure you that you have a place to stay when you arrive. See here the list of hotels and beach resorts in La Union with best discounted room rates .
• After booking your hotel or beach resort in La Union, make sure to call or send an email to your hotel/resort to inquire and confirm any health documents or travel requirements you need to secure or submit before checking-in and when traveling to La Union. To avoid delays and any inconvenice, be sure to accomplish all the needed requirements.
• Always check the latest and updated La Union travel requirements and entry protocols . You may refer to the latest IATF Guidelines, or visit La Union local government's website and social media accounts to know the latest and updated travel requirements and entry protocols that you need to follow. You may also call the office of local government to inquire about the travel requirements for tourists and entry protocol procedures you need to follow.
• Always have your confirmed hotel/resort booking ready and other documents such as vaccination certificate , travel pass and negative test result (if needed) before traveling to La Union. Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR and Rapid Antigent Tests .
• Lastly, always wear your face mask, face shield, and practice the minimum health protocols at all times. Don't be too complacent and careless, even when you're having fun and enjoying your vacation. Always stay safe and travel resposibly!

La Union is not just for surfers, but a destination that anyone will enjoy! Don't miss visiting these top things to do and tourist spots in La Union that you should include in your itinerary! Have fun and enjoy La Union!

Extend your trip side trips from la union, to help you plan your trip, you may check out these links below:.

• Top Things to Do in Baguio City + Tourist Spots and Itinerary
• List of Best Hotels in Baguio City
• Baguio Hotels and Transient Houses for Rent
• Must-Try Homegrown Restaurants in Baguio City
• Hundred Islands Travel Guide
• A Local's Guide to Dagupan City
• Villa Balinmanok Beach Resort in Dasol, Pangasinan
• Hotel Le Duc in Dagupan City
• Hundred Islands Pangasinan Day Tour from Manila
• Cabongaoan Beach + Death Pool Tour from Manila
• Bolinao Pangasinan Tour from Manila
• A Local's Guide to Vigan, Ilocos Sur
• Visiting the Heritage City of Vigan
• Sta. Maria Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
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• Baguio Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Baler Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
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• Bislig and Hinatuan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
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La Union Tourist Spot Guide – 9 Exciting and Fun Things To Do

• by Hungry Traveller
• March 13, 2021 December 28, 2021

Find out other interesting things to do in this La Union tourist spot guide.

The province of La Union in the Northwestern part of Luzon, Philippines, is a favorite travel destination for surfers and non-surfers alike.

Accessible by land, La Union makes an easy escape destination for the beach bum seeking a laidback and budget-friendly vacation. Apart from the good swells, there are more exciting things to do and places to visit La Union.

You can ideally visit the surfing town of San Juan all year round because the weather is predominantly humid. Visiting from November to March has the north swell, while the south swell navigates the ocean from July to October.

Traveling to La Union

Traveling from manila to la union.

Tourists driving their cars and coming from Metro Manila can take the North Luzon Expressway. Continue to Tarlac-Pampanga-La Union Expressway (TPLEx) and exit at Pozorubio. After that, take the road to San Fernando by-pass road until you reach the capital city.

Traveling by car takes about 4.5 to 5 hours on the average season.

When commuting, there are provincial buses that operate thru scheduled trips daily. Partas Bus is known to have direct trips from Manila to San Juan, La Union.

When traveling around Zambales, the transport modes are jeepney and tricycle for shorter distances. Meanwhile, a bus is your option for longer trips.

Discover fun things to do on this La Union tourist spot guide

Table of Contents

1. Surfing in San Juan

San Juan La Union is a go-to destination for travelers who simultaneously enjoy the swells and beach.

With its proximity to Metro Manila, you can reach this La Union tourist spot as early as five hours. On the other hand, riding provincial buses takes you around six hours the fastest.

Surfing enthusiasts and newbies dwell on San Juan’s shores when superior swells come by the coast from October to March.

You can easily spot many surfing schools that offer lessons for beginners at the beachfront. Don’t have a surfboard? They got you covered. You can rent surfboards by the hour or for half the day at affordable rates.

Aside from riding the waves, swimming is as thrilling, though. Note, however, that swimming and surfing are only open from 6 am to 6 pm. When you’re feeling hungry, you’ll have plenty of restaurants and food stalls to choose from.

After your tiring day, you can peacefully watch the golden sunset and wander the shores of San Juan.

Among other La Union tourist spots, the nightlife in San Juan paints another story. Music, lights, and the lovely crowd usually dominate the landscape. In terms of accommodation, you can easily find budget hostels here.

2. Ma-cho Temple

The Ma-Cho temple in San Fernando is another top La Union tourist spot you shouldn’t miss when roaming around the province.

Near the bustling downtown, you can easily spot the entrance pagoda signage from the highway.

The Ma-Cho Temple is the only Taoist temple in La Union, built during the mid-1970s. This sacred shrine dedicates to the Chinese Sea-goddess, Mazu, the protector of the sea. That is why the temple strategically faces the sea.

Open for public viewing, Ma-cho Temple welcomes every curious tourist and is free.

The impressive pagodas, towers, and statues of lions and dragons are a sight to behold. On top of that, the 13-tier spider-type dome makes this temple a masterpiece. Wood carving of deities and traditional Taoist decors interlink, forming the massive dome.

Tourists can also enjoy the vast overlooking of the sea. Visiting Ma-cho Temple is a great way to meditate and learn something new, apart from taking souvenir photos.

3. Tangadan Falls

Take a break from your surfing itinerary and visit Tangadan Falls, just a few miles from San Juan beach.

Before reaching Tangadan Falls, you can either hire a tricycle or jeepney to drop you at the nearest jump-off point. When you’re feeling adventurous, you can also opt to hike the trails and commune with San Gabriel’s nature. Opting for the latter requires you around an hour of trek, though.

Upon reaching Tangadan Falls, you’ll see the massive rock facade and the seeming sheet of cold water flowing. Tourists visiting here enjoy water massage by directly hovering to the waterfall’s bottom by riding a bamboo raft. Besides, you can also swim in the vast basin to relax and feel refreshed.

Adventure seekers can also try cliff jumping at a cliff near the smaller waterfall.

Ideally, arranging your trip with a local guide would be best. The local tourism office does provide life jackets as well at a minimal rental rate.

4. Grape Farms in Bauang

Who would have thought that there are grape farms in a tropical country like the Philippines? Well, the modest town of Bauang has long been a nice side trip for tourists traveling to surf the beaches of San Juan.

Among the known grape farms in Bauang are Calica, Lomboy, Gapuz, and Mangguera. All of which are private farms of their respective family. Seeing the vast vineyards is such a unique experience. Moreover, the actual harvesting of bunches of grapes is as fascinating as seeing them hang above your head.

Those farms offer such activity, and you have to pay for the fruit. They also sell other souvenir products made from grapes, like grape wine. You can experience grape picking in Bauang farms from March to May, just in time when planning to surf the beach in the summer.

Grape farms in Bauang are among the local government’s efforts to promote agricultural La Union tourist spots.

5. Baluarte Watch Tower

When deciding to travel to Luna’s town, you can quickly pay a visit to the historical Baluarte watchtower.

This century-old edifice once serves as a fortress for the Spaniards to warn of incoming pirate attacks.

Once wrecked during a typhoon, this great La Union tourist spot still sits on a pebbled beach adorned with concrete pavers.

Tourists usually spend a quick visit here, just when taking a break from long drives.

6. Luna Pebble Beach

After appreciating the Baluarte watchtower, it’s time to hop on to Luna’s Pebble Beach.

The coast of Luna is home to the pebble picking industry of the North because of its massive abundance in its shoreline.

Although walking on a shore of pebbles instead of the usual sands feels different, a quick tour is still an experience worthy of trying.

The sounds of the powerful waves splashing to the stiff pebbles break the sheer silence of the beach.

Visiting Pebble Beach is ideal for catching the perfect sunrise view during the early morning. However, an afternoon visit is a more laidback vibe just when the silhouette starts to form.

Overall, this unassuming La Union tourist spot is an excellent addition to your itinerary.

7. Namacpacan Church

This historic church is a gem for the locals of Luna. Surprisingly, La Union considers it the only remaining heritage site in the province.

In the 1690s, Namacmacan church sits near the downtown area, a few blocks away from Luna Monument and the municipal park.

Tourists and devotees flock here during the Lenten Season. If you visit during this period, expect to have a limited parking space, so make sure to arrive at early hours.

Devotees and tourists alike pay a visit for the miracles and healing of Apo Baket, a revered image of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Drop by the Namacpacan Church during your La Union tourist spot tour, so you can still reflect and have some time to meditate.

8. Lotus Valley Farm

Escape the busy crowds of Urbiztondo and spend a night in Lotus Valley Farm to experience off-the-grid hospitality.

Located in Dasay, San Juan, this hidden farm is a paradise of forest farms that paints a different perspective from the La Union’s surfing spots.

Fruit-bearing trees, different bamboo species, lush vegetation, and a lotus farm occupy the most property. With the abundance of flora, the farm’s temperature significantly contributes to keeping at a fair compared to the city.

Lotus Valley Farm offers a true escape from the city and a detox program to introduce a plant-based diet and sound meditation.

An overnight stay at their modern nipa huts completes the whole experience. They offer two rustic bamboo hut rooms at affordable rates, accommodating 4 to 6 persons.

Make sure to include this in your La Union tourist spot itinerary when you’re looking for a place to destress and relax at the same time.

9. Poro Point Lighthouse

If century-old structures fascinate you, then the Poro Point Lighthouse is an extra La Union tourist spot to visit.

Just 30 minutes ride from the busy Urbiztondo, you can easily access this classical structure built to guide the mariners in the olden times.

Since Poro Point Lighthouse sits on a military base, access to the structure is prohibited. You can, however, take some photos from a distance with the lighthouse as a background.

Locals having an early morning jog usually ends at Poro Point Lighthouse for an incredible sea view.

🔗 Nearby Tourist Destinations | Baguio | Pangasinan |

Plan your next trip in la union now.

Draft your La Union tourist spot itinerary now so you can maximize your long weekends or planned vacation leaves.

With plenty of affordable and budget-friendly hostels near the surfing spots, booking keeps your worries from the unprecedented fully booked dilemma.

Surfers flock to the beaches of La Union from November to January because of its less temperate climate. Expect to get higher rates, though, of accommodations when planning to visit during those times.

Did you find this helpful? Share this with your circle now.

Safe travels!

Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols, you may visit the guidelines from the Department of Tourism or visit LGU La Union for updates . Stay safe.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » La Union

LA UNION Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Escape the hustle and bustle of Manila by heading up to the relaxed area of La Union. An easy bus ride away, La Union is the surf and beach destination here on Luzon island.

Aside from relaxed beach vibes, La Union is also home to a fair number of historical landmarks and nature escapes.

If you are a surfer or new to surfing this area is a great place to catch some waves. Positioned on the West Philippine Sea, the surf swell is consistent year-round with October to March being the peak season.

But being a great surfing spot is not all that La Union has to offer. Stunning waterfalls, beautiful hidden hikes and tracks through the jungle and some epic cultural sites are expecting you.

This 3-Day La Union itinerary is a well-stocked La Union travel guide the best sights and activities to embark on for an unforgettable adventure.

A Little Bit about this 3-Day La Union Itinerary

Where to stay in la union, la union itinerary day 1, la union itinerary day 2, la union itinerary day 3, best time to visit la union, how to get around la union, plan a trip to la union – what to prepare, faqs on la union itinerary, final thoughts for your la union itinerary.

As I’ve mentioned above, exploring La Union can be a relaxing break from the busy city life in Manila. This is where the true beauty of the Philippines really starts to shine.

Whether you want to surf, hike, relax or step up your tanning game, the options are endless in la Union.

But that also means deciding on what to do and when to do it can turn into a real struggle. With so many awesome attractions, you might find yourself overwhelmed when trying to fit it all in. But don’t worry, this is where I’ll step in.

To make planning a bit easier for you, I’ve come up with the ultimate 3-Day itinerary for your La Union stay. You’ll get detailed information about each stop, when and how long to visit and how to get there.

Make note that some of the chosen spots aren’t easily reached by public transport, so you might want to opt for a rental car or a private driver. Both options are relatively cheap and give you enough freedom to get on with your day however you want.

That being said, none of these stops are mandatory and you can easily skip or add more attractions.

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3 Day la Union Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 in La Union: Grape Farming , Pindangan Ruins , Christ the Redeemer Statue , Ma-Cho Temple , Thunderbird Resort , Poro Point
• Day 2 in La Union: Tangadan Falls , Bulalakaw Falls , La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden , Bauang Beach
• Day 3 in La Union: Balay Anito Falls , St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish , Baluarte Watch Tower , 3D Art Gallery and Bahay Na Bato Souvenir Shop , Occalong Falls , San Juan Beach

There are many beautiful places in La Union. Unfortunately, having so many great options might be a bit confusing when it comes to where to stay in la Union . But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with the best neighborhoods and accommodations for your trip!

San Juan La Union is by far the most famous city in La Union. The beach here is fantastic, the vibe is great, little cafes, street art, and surfing are found everywhere. You’ll find most of La Union’s best hostel in this area which makes it perfect for budget backpackers.

Bauang is the classic, scenic coastline town. Being close to San Fernando, the capital city of the region Bauang offers a little more development than just beach life.

For activities and amenities, San Fernando is our place to stay on this La Union itinerary. Being the capital city San Fernando is built up a bit more and offers easy access to the rest of the region.

Luna is a huge part of the La Union region, known for its pebble stone beach, culture and aesthetics, you won’t want to miss out taking some time here.

Best Hostel in La Union –  The Circle Hostel La Union

Situated in the surfer’s capital, San Juan, this hostel is the best option for athletic spirits wanting to enjoy great surf. Located near to the beach and delicious restaurants, The Circle Hostel also offers free breakfast, comfortable rooms, and an outdoor terrace to relax on.

Best Airbnb in La Union:  Self contained chalet in a secluded setting

This self-contained chalet is great for soaking in Filipino beach vibes, enjoy waking up with a cup of fresh coffee, the sound of waves crashing and birds singing. Complimentary wifi access is nice and you are a short walk to the city centre from your beachside location.

Best Budget Hotel in La Union –  Marand Beach Resort

Located in Bauang, the Marand Beach Resort, offers clean and modern rooms, with wifi and friendly staff. Every room is air-conditioned, there are an on-site bar and restaurant, and you can also enjoy some great views from the refreshing resort pool.

Best Luxury Hotel in La Union –  Thunderbird Beach Resorts – Poro Point

This Mediterranean-inspired high-class resort offers guests luxury by the West Phillipine sea! Complete with an infinity pool, yoga classes, and an on-site casino, you will have everything you desire right at your fingertips! The resort sits on a cliff overlooking the West Philippine Sea. You can also experience fine dining at the elegant on-site restaurant, Olives Restaurant. The resort boasts a golf course with 9 holes if you feel the need to practice your swing!

Your first day in La Union starts with a bit of education and culture. To get around, you might want to hire a private driver or a rental car. Make sure to pack swimming suits with you, as you’ll be stepping up your tanning game in the afternoon.

Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Drive. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.

08.30 am – La Union Grape Farms

Grapes are good, wine is better, and visiting vineyards is the best. Checking out the various La Union grape farms is the proper way to truly understand how this worldwide drink is crafted. Thanks to social media these sleepy farms are now a fun attraction for people to come visit.

Grape growing has been around for decades in this area of La Union, there are a handful of vineyards that you to go to and explore. Wandering around, sampling these tasty little berries makes for a pretty fun day outdoors. At each vineyard you are able to pick your own grapes, if they are in season. Don’t forget to sample the finished product!

• Costs – 20 PHP for photos, 150-250 PHP per kilo of grapes
• How long should I stay here? 1 hour
• Getting there –  It’s a 32min drive from San Fernando City

10.00 am – Pindangan Ruins

Next up, you’ll be visiting the famous Pindangan Ruins. The church was built as a symbol of peace between two old villages, San Vicente de Balanac – a coastal village and San Guillermo de Dalangdang – an inland mountain village. The union was created for their mutual need for protection from pirates and headhunters!

Although mostly destroyed due to an earthquake, Pindangan church is still a brilliant display of architectural design. The remaining structure is now overgrown with wildflowers and moss but yet still stands as a reminder to the people here of how it brought two villages together creating peace and safety.

Insider Tips: The ruins are lavish with ghost stories galore, so be prepared for a folklore feel and goosebumps! The word Pindangan is an Ilocano term for “a place where meat is sun-dried with salt for preservation.”

• Costs – 20 PHP per person
• How long should I stay here? 30-45min
• Getting there – 22min drive from the previous spot

11.00 am – Christ the Redeemer Statue

Although not as big as the one in Brazil this Christ the Redeemer statue is a nice little photo stop. Found in various places around the world this iconic statue is always a joy to come across when traveling.

Only a short walk up the hill at the statue you are graced with a nice view of San Fernando La Union.

It’s also a great spot to sit down with a snack and enjoy the view. Your feet might need a bit of a break and the statue is the perfect place to chill and recharge before heading to the next attraction.

• Costs – Free
• How long should I stay here? 1-1.5 hours including a rest with food
• Getting there – 12min drive from the previous spot

12.30 pm – Ma-Cho Temple

Continuing the first day in La Union with this incredibly cultural and significant Taoist Temple! The Ma-Cho temple stands as a living tribute to the Confluence of the Filipino-Chinese Culture.

The temple was named after a legendary Chinese deity named Ma-Cho, she was born in 960 AD during the Sung Dynasty.  It is said that she never cried a single tear during her entire first month of life, that is how she earned the name “Mo”, which translates to“keeping silent”.

Afterwards, head over to Halo Halo de Iloko for some delicious traditional desserts for lunch, which is only a 10 minute walk away.

Ma-Cho was very intelligent, said to have a photographic memory, and blessed with healing powers! At the age of ten, she became a monk. An unusual story indeed for a little girl! She was able to accurately predict the tides and weather conditions of the sea, thus dubbed the ‘goddess of the sea’

This temple is different from all the other temples you will find in Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan, as it is the biggest temple in the world outside of China! The Ma Cho Temple believed to be one of the very few Chinese temples that have been built with five archways.

An entire hectare of sheer beauty and rich history all wrapped up in a gorgeous Taoist temple!

• Getting there – It’s a 4min drive from the statue

1.30 pm – Thunderbird Resort

Duck away from the backpacking life for a few hours by visiting the Thunderbird Resort and Casino . Here you can experience a taste of Greece without changing timezones… This mini resort-city is located on top of a 100-foot cliff and with its free tour you can get some great photos of one of the best resorts in the Philippines.

This 5 star resort has been open for a handful of years and covers a stretch of 65 hectares! Pretend you are in Santorini for the afternoon and if you do the day pass make sure to live it up like you officially are there.

• Costs – Daily Pass for 1,500 PHP
• How long should I stay here? 3-4 hours

5.00 pm – Poro Point

One of the best places for sunset, Paro Point is a beautiful place to spend a long afternoon admiring the scenery. Enjoy the lush landscape as you walk alongside cliffs that drop into the West Philippine Sea.

Keep your eyes peeled for the various birds that call the cliffs of Paro Point home. This rugged limestone dates back to one of the ice ages! The Filipino government even set up an economic zone here on Paro Point to keep this area pristine.

The Poro Point Lighthouse was originally built in 1905 during the American occupation and although it does not have a traditional lantern to warn sailors the lighthouse has a reflective glass plane 107 feet wide that helps illuminate two electrical flashes every 10 seconds for warnings.

Insider Tip: Unfortunately, you will have to admire the lighthouse from afar. Being an active military base it is not open to tourists.

• Costs – free
• How long should I stay here?  no limit, enjoy the evening!
• Getting there –  It’s a short walk from the resort

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

On Day 2 of my La Union itinerary, you can expect adventures, adrenalin and stunning nature. You’ll be visiting some beautiful waterfalls and get the chance to hike on hidden paths. Make sure your swimming gear has all dried up because you’ll be hitting the beach as well!

08.30 am – Tangadan Falls in San Gabriel

Twice as wide as they are tall the Tangadan Falls makes for an open expanse of water activities! The pool is deep at the bottom of the falls making it perfect for cliff jumping. Climb to the top, enjoy the view and steady your nerves!

A short 20-minute Jeep or tricycle ride from town to the Tangadan Falls near San Gabriel, is a great start to your adventurous day. Once being dropped off at the trailhead you languidly hike for a short bit of time following the river upstream. If you skip the Jeep ride you are able to hike for about an hour following the Brgy. Duplas trail.

• Cost –  30 PHP for entrance and 500 PHP for a guide
• How long should I stay here?  Around 1-2 hours
• Getting there –  20min Jeep ride + a little hike

11.00 am – Bulalakaw Falls

Getting to the falls is some of the best fun! It’s only a short 20-30 minute hike to Bulalakaw Falls but the views are something else. Rock cliffs, fields and river valleys will have you in awe of nature and make this trek memorable.

Enjoy the cool, clear water, and lack of crowds as you swim around lost in nature! There are a few waterfalls in this area if you want to keep exploring. The drive to Bagulin, where Bulalakaw Falls are located is so much fun as well. You have definitely left the city and the beach behind.

• Cost –  Free or small entrance fee
• How long should I stay here?  1-1.5 hours
• Getting there –  20-30min scenic hike from the previous spot

1.00 pm – La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden

Dive into a wildlife paradise as you explore this nature park complete with many themed, and expertly landscaped garden environments, complete with orchids and an aviary bustling with native animals!

This majestic garden is the center for laboratory research in Northern Luzon and was inaugurated in March 1996.

All of the beautiful plants are labeled with their local and scientific names, along with their origin. The plants arranged in the style of a country garden.

• Cost –  5-20 PHP
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour
• Getting there –  16min drive from San Fernando City

3.00 pm – Bauang Beach

Everyone gathers at Bauang Beach to enjoy the smooth waves, quiet atmosphere and remarkably beautiful sunsets!

Pack your lilo, your beach towels and your sun hat for an amazing day of soaking up some vitamin Sea on the prominent coastline of La Union. This beach is perfect for a lazy swim and wonderful if you’re looking for calm rolling waves.

Whether you want to spend the day here or just a few hours, it is well worth the visit.

• Cost – Free
• How long should I stay here? No limit!
• Getting there – 25min drive from the previous spot

If you’re lucky enough to have more than two days in La Union, check out my itinerary for day 3! It’s just as action packed as the second one, but with a bit more culture. You’ll end the day on the most famous beach in the Philippines, so be sure to pack your towel again!

07.00 am – Balay Anito Falls

The last day of my itinerary will start bright and early with another waterfall adventure. Make sure to bring a pair of solid shoes as well so you can hit some hidden tracks.

One-of-a-kind trekking and swimming await you at the Balay Anito Falls, one of the most mysterious and astoundingly beautiful tropical paradises that the La Union offers. This pristine basin is full of crystal waters cascade down into a limestone cave. And the whole area is surrounded by a dense rainforest that you wander through to reach the pools.

• Cost –  100 PHP
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours
• Getting there –  1 hour drive from San Fernando La Union

10.00 am – St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish

Stylized in design, well known and respected stopping by this church is a great step into Catholic history of the Philippines.

St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish in La Union is more than just a church it is also home to the sacred shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan, the Virgin Mary. Over the years a few miracles have been attributed to this 6 feet tall image of the Virgin Mary, which has now been canonized by the church.

• Cost –  Free
• How long should I stay here?  30-45min
• Getting there –  40min drive from the previous spot

10.45 am – Baluarte Watch Tower

Otherwise known as, the ‘leaning tower of Luna’, the Baluarte Watch Tower is a significant tourist attraction as well as one of the most important historical La Union landmarks. The overall setting may be quite unexciting, as it is a relatively small structure set on the coastline, but when you understand the history and meaning behind the structure, it will come alive with magic!

The Luna watch tower denotes the town’s great past and was originally built during the pre-Spanish era as a strategic lookout point for impending attack from aggressive pirates or other dangerous attackers. Just like a guardian angel looking over its community and the lives of the people, this ancient structure has served its purpose very well countless times in Luna’s past.

Now the watchtower stands in disrepair. Today, the mighty landmark sits on the famous pebble beach of Luna, and although it has been damaged by weather and time, it is still a sight to behold!

• Getting there –  a short walk or 4min drive from the previous spot

12.00 pm – 3D Art Gallery and Bahay Na Bato Souvenir Shop

An essential part of any La Union Trip Itinerary is a visit to the arts.

The 3-D gallery and souvenir shop show off all the incredible locally made artworks and sculptures. Most which are created from rocks and wood, designed into creative shapes.

The souvenir shop also offers some snacks and refreshments, which is the perfect recharge before heading to the next stop. The Gallery is right next to the sea, so you can spend a little while enjoying your food while admiring the crystal blue water.

• Cost –  30 PHP
• How long should I stay here?  45-60min
• Getting there –  10min drive from the previous spot

1.30 pm – Occalong Falls

There are so many waterfalls around La Union, that I had to include another one in the itinerary! Visiting here is a chance to refresh yourself after a morning of adventuring by dipping into the cool waters of the Occalong Falls. It’s a beautiful spot in nature with not many tourists. There are plenty of options to climb, explore and relax. Let out your inner animal as you venture through the jungle and find yourself in the awe-inspiring and stunning environment of the Occalong Falls.

This is a perfect place to lay back and enjoy the day, soaking in the vitamin D and breathing in that fresh tropical air during your trip to La Union. You can visit the Occalong Falls on your own or get a guide that will show you some hidden paths to explore.

• Cost –  10 PHP
• Getting there –  It’s a 20min Jeep ride

3.00pm until late – San Juan Beach

As the last stop on my 3 Day La Union Itinerary, I offer you the opportunity to kick your feet up, or go for a short swim and enjoy a nice beachy sunset.

San Juan Beach is pretty busy during the day, but it normally gets a bit quieter once the strong afternoon sun is gone. Grab a drink and a beanbag and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets while watching surfers rip one wave after another. It’s the perfect way to end an adventurous La Union Day 3.

If you love beaches, you will also love the nearby Urbiztondo beach, which is fantastic for surfing and chilling out in beach bars until sunset.

• How long should I stay here?  Open end!
• Getting there –  13min drive from San Fernado La Union

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

The weather in La Union is some of the best in the Philippines. Rain season still happens but it is not as intense as other areas. La Union has more of an arid climate meaning the forecast is sunshine with a chance of more sunshine.

There’s really no “bad time” to visit la Union, as the weather is one of the most stable ones in all of Asia. However, there are some months that differ, especially looking at the humidity levels.

If you’re after the hotter months, March until July will be the perfect time to visit. If you want to wear a pair of nice jeans every once in a while, you should opt for December to February, as these are the least humid months – but it’s still quite hot.

December and January are the peak months for surfers and tourists, which also means inflated prices and booked out accommodations.

La Union bus terminals are scattered everywhere, and it is the easiest and most direct way to get from point A to Point B in this fascinating region. La Union bus fare is super reasonable, so you won’t be paying out your ears if you’re backpacking the Philippines ! The buses are always on time and provide a smooth ride, you can also expect to make a few friends along the way to where you’re going!

You can hire out a car or bike to get around, which is relatively inexpensive and allows you to work on your own time. Cruising the streets is a fun activity in itself, as La Union’s towns are all full of grand places and wonderful architecture.

Taxis can also be found, so you can also hire out a driver for the day or just for one trip. The locals are friendly and the chances are you will learn something new from your driver about La Union. If you’re wanting to experience a more cultural mode of transportation than the habal-habal (motorized taxi ) are the best way to indulge.

Walking around is a lovely way to see the cities and enjoy the laid back atmosphere of La Union, provided you aren’t going to walk too far. The beach is more often than not only a few steps away!

The Philippines is less conservative than its neighbouring countries of Malaysia, Indonesia and Taiwan when it comes to clothing. As tourism grows and island hopping and beach parties continue, the dress code is turning more towards the western style you might be used to. However, venturing into the less tourist and rural areas it is best to dress more conservatively.

Avoid wearing all black; it’s considered a mourning colour, but black in the heat of the sun wouldn’t be my first choice anyway… If you are going to visit churches and temples make sure your shoulders, cleavage and knees are covered, otherwise, your  packing for the Philippines  should definitely be light and breathable.

La Union is generally considered very safe for tourists. If you take a cab, check the driver’s ID to make sure they are legit. If you drink alcohol, try to behave yourself as local culture does not look kindly on boisterousness.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for La Union

You can’t always plan for everything. But if you have good travel insurance , you’re setting yourself up well.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their La Union itinerary.

What is there to do in La Union aside from surfing lessons?

There’s heaps! Head to Tangadan Falls for some cliff jumping or maybe Ma-Cho Temple for some unique culture.

What’s the best time to visit La Union for Surfing?

October to April is the main surf season in La Union. At this time of year, waves can reach up to 2-3 meters!

Where are some instagrammable places in La Union?

Poro Point is absolutely beautiful – especially if you get it around sunset. Though you risk looking like an absolute tourist if you’re just looking at it through a camera. You can use your eyes you know!

What are some hidden tourist spots in La Union?

The 20-30 minute hike to Bulalakaw Falls offers some incredible landscape without the crowds. It’s really easy to get off the beaten path a bit here.

Traveling around La Union is a great experience. Although La Union’s beaches may not have Boracay’s pristine white sands, you will find a unique beauty here that will have you falling in love with the sheer personality of this stunning province.

If you want a break from the busy streets of Manila, you’ll absolutely love la Union and with this 3-Day itinerary, you’re perfectly prepared for your visit.

Planning your trip ahead in a place with so many attractions and options of what to do is more than necessary to have a successful trip. And don’t forget to pack your swimming gear, hiking boots and mosquito spray too!

Have you been to La Union? If you think I’ve missed some cool hotspots, let me know in the comments below!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Rhenz Caguioa

Share or save this post

Are there pay to use showers in Elyu. We’ll do a side trip on our way to Baguio 🙂

Hi 🙂 Thanks for the great details and recommendations in your article! I’d love to go right now but I need to know the requirements to be allowed entry to La Union coming from Metro Manila: clearances from local governments (mine and there), health declaration, RT-PCR tests, quarantine, etc. Do you have the most current info available? If I have a driver drop me off only (he’s not staying w me) and turn around, will the driver be allowed to enter the province as well and same as pick-up after a 5-day (approx) stay? Thanks and cheers!

Hi Ariel, No matter where you wish to travel at present I strongly advise you check directly with immigration authorities of that particularly country/area. Only they will be able to give you the most up to date information on procedure and entry requirements.

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12 Jul 2023 - 6 min read

Experience the Paradise of La Union: Your Guide to the Philippines' Most Sought-After Beach Destination

Experience the beauty of La Union! Explore the top tourist spots, luxurious beach resorts, and captivating attractions in this tropical paradise.

La Union, located in the northern Philippines, is a sought-after destination for tourists looking for a tropical paradise. With its stunning beaches, picturesque sunsets, and exciting activities, including surfing and snorkeling, there's something for everyone.

This article serves as a guide to La Union's must-visit tourist spots, top beach resorts, and San Juan attractions so you can experience the best that this province has to offer. Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the paradise of La Union!

The Top 4 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in La Union

La Union is a stunning province in the northern Philippines, offering tourists a plethora of must-visit spots that are perfect for any traveler.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this beautiful region has it all. Here are the top 5 must-visit tourist spots in La Union that you shouldn't miss:

Urbiztondo Beach

Known as the surfing capital of the north, Urbiztondo Beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike. With its beautiful coastline and consistent waves, this beach is the perfect place to catch a wave, enjoy the sun, or simply watch the surfers in action.

Its beachside bars and restaurants ensure you can refuel and relax after a day in the water.

San Fernando La Union Churches

Rich in history and culture, San Fernando La Union is home to several beautiful churches worth visiting. Among them are the St. William the Hermit Cathedral and the Ma-Cho Temple, which showcase the area's unique blend of Catholic and Chinese influences.

These religious sites provide a tranquil and serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and prayer.

San Juan La Union Restaurants

San Juan La Union is a gastronomic paradise that offers a wide variety of dining options for travelers. From local Filipino cuisine to international dishes, there's something for everyone.

Popular spots like Halo-Halo de Iloko, Gefseis Greek Grill, and Tagpuan sa San Juan serve mouthwatering dishes that will leave you craving more.

Cabongaoan Beach

A hidden gem in La Union, Cabongaoan Beach is a pristine, unspoiled beach that offers visitors a relaxing escape. With its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and surrounding rock formations, this beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

If you're looking for a more peaceful and less crowded experience, Cabongaoan Beach is the place to be.

Read more : Best 5 Hotels with the Most Spectacular Sea Views in the Philippines

Experience the Culture with the Unique Attractions & Activities in La Union

La Union, a picturesque province in the northern Philippines, is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. This tropical paradise boasts of pristine beaches, impressive landscapes, and vibrant local culture.

Don't miss out on these unique attractions and activities during your visit to La Union:

Ride the Waves at Surfing Spots in La Union, Philippines

La Union is well-known for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting both beginners and seasoned surfers alike. With several surfing spots along its coast, you're sure to find the perfect wave.

Two of the most popular surf spots are Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan and Carille Beach in Bacnotan. Offering consistent waves and surf schools, these locations are perfect for honing your skills or simply enjoying the thrill of the ride.

Witness the Kalbaryo sa San Fernando Festival

For a taste of La Union's rich cultural heritage, be sure to catch the Kalbaryo sa San Fernando Festival. This annual event, held during the Holy Week, is a deeply spiritual and moving experience that showcases the province's strong Catholic roots.

Locals re-enact the passion and crucifixion of Jesus Christ through solemn processions, live street performances, and thought-provoking art installations. The festival is a unique opportunity to witness the deep devotion and artistry of the people of La Union.

Embark on a Tangadan Falls Adventure Tour

Tangadan Falls, located in the town of San Gabriel, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Embark on an exhilarating journey through lush forests, rugged terrains, and picturesque landscapes as you trek toward the majestic waterfall.

The 1.5-hour hike culminates in the breathtaking sight of Tangadan Falls, where you can swim in the cool waters, relax by the natural pool, or even jump off the cliffs for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Local guides are available to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Don't Miss These Delicious Cuisines & Local Food Specialties During Your Visit to La Union

Discover the tantalizing culinary treasures of La Union as you indulge in its delicious local cuisines and specialties. With a rich blend of cultural influences, La Union's food scene is an adventure in every bite.

During your visit, don't miss out on these must-try dishes and food spots around the beautiful province, particularly in the San Juan area.

San Juan Itlog Ni Biringhe

A delectable and unique twist on the traditional Filipino rice dish, Biringhe, this San Juan specialty features glutinous rice cooked with turmeric, coconut milk, and various spices.

What sets it apart is the addition of boiled eggs, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Itlog Ni Biringhe is best enjoyed during local fiestas, but you can also try making it at home by searching for a recipe online.

Pugad Adventure Park

Source : Facebook - @Pugo Adventure Park

Combine your culinary adventure with some adrenaline-pumping activities at Pugad Adventure Park in Pugo. After zip-lining, rappelling, and swimming, treat yourself to some tasty local dishes at their on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of Filipino favorites.

Agoo's Dinengdeng Festival

If you're visiting La Union in April, don't miss the annual Dinengdeng Festival in Agoo. This lively event showcases a variety of local dishes, including Dinengdeng, a delicious vegetable dish made with bagoong (fermented fish sauce).

It's a fantastic opportunity to taste the best of La Union's cuisine, all in one place.

Incorporate these scrumptious food experiences into your La Union itinerary, and you'll leave with a full stomach and a newfound appreciation for the province's rich culinary heritage.

Read more : Exploring the Best Beach Resorts in Leyte

In conclusion, La Union is a tropical paradise that offers a memorable experience for tourists seeking to unwind and have fun. From the scenic beaches to the exciting activities, this province is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the Philippines.

And there you have it, folks! La Union, the tropical paradise of the Philippines, is calling out to you. With its stunning beaches, exhilarating activities, and mouthwatering cuisine, this province has it all.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your shades, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. But before you go, remember one thing: Traveloka is your ultimate travel companion. From flight tickets to hotel bookings and even attractions and activities, Traveloka has got you covered.

With easy booking and the convenience of Traveloka Xperience , where you can order tickets for all those exciting attractions and activities right from your smartphone, planning your holiday and staycation has never been easier. It's like having your own personal travel genie!

So, don't just dream about that La Union getaway. Take action and make it a reality with Traveloka. Start planning your trip today, and get ready to experience the paradise of La Union in all its glory. Happy travels!

Best Hotels & Accommodations in La Union

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All about la union: a definitive travel guide to la union (including a list of the top things to do).

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Where does one go surfing?

While most Filipinos who reside to the south of the country prefer the idyllic and island vibe of Siargao, city dwellers and metropolitan residents up North would rather head up to La Union in Northern Luzon. This is especially true for Manileño travelers who do not want to contend with booking airline tickets and air travel. After all, San Juan has always been the staple go-to when it comes to chill vibes, and laidback living and La Union has always been regarded as the Philippines’ surfing capital where one goes to chase and ride waves. San Juan, La Union, has always been considered as the average city dweller’s summer playground where they go to enjoy a brief respite from the perpetual hustle and bustle of the metropolis, catch and ride some waves. Indeed, a trip to La Union provides an avenue for a refreshing break from the constant grind in the city and has been a widely popular long-weekend or Philippine summer destination.

However, beyond its appeal as a surfing town, La Union has a lot to offer to surfers and non-surfers alike. There is a myriad of daily activities to be enjoyed insomuch that you can fill a three-day itinerary by exploring what the rest of the town has to offer. Travel activities range from exploring lighthouses to picking grapes but if your visit is primarily for surfing, then you best book your trips between the months of July till October (South Swell) or November to March (North Swell) as these are the months with the most favorable surfing conditions. In any case, if you have never been to the sublime Philippine surfing capital before, let this article show you the ropes and serve as your La Union Surfing Guide.

LA UNION TRAVEL GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIME TRAVELERS

How to go to la union from manila.

TRAVEL TIME: 4-5 hours (depending on your point of origin)

MANILA- SAN FERNANDO-SAN JUAN

Driving to La Union from Metro Manila requires you to take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). From there, connect through the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and connect to the new Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX). Exit at Carmen Temporary Toll Plaza located under the Carma overpass in Pangasinan. From here, turn left following the Carmen-Poblacion Rosales Road then turn right to Teofilo Sison Bridge going to Villassis, Pangasinan. Once there, all you would need to do is follow the MacArthur Highway (National Highway) through Pangasinan to reach La Union.

For ease of navigation, download navigating apps such as Waze and Google Maps to ensure that you are taking and exiting the right roads going to La Union.  

WHERE TO STAY IN LA UNION

Ideally, travelers hailing from Metro Manila should pick San Juan as a base, but booking accommodations in San Fernando is an excellent alternative as the two is only a mere twenty-five-minute ride away from the beach. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly accommodation, your best bet would be to stay in San Juan as the place is saturated with some of the most affordable and mid-range resorts and hotels. More importantly, the area is in proximity to Urbiztondo Beach –which is basically where surfers go to chase the waves.

Travelers who are seeking for a more luxurious stay would not have a difficult time finding one here as there is also a good range of options for travelers who wish to spend more for a more comfortable stay. Accommodation choices range from budget inns such as Isla Bonita Beach Resort to midrange such as Thunderbird Resorts.

WHAT TO DO IN LA UNION

Explore San Juan, the surfing town

Regardless of whether you are in La Union for surfing or not, your first order of business should be to explore the surfing town, San Juan. Apart from viewing the waves, the laidback scenery will surely encourage you to relax and take it easy insomuch that you can chill out at the beach without being compelled to surf. However, if you are up for it, try your hand at surfing and ask any of the local instructors for a lesson. Most surfing lessons range PHP400-500 depending on the instructor and would already include a rental board as well as the basic surfing training good for an hour.

Try your luck at Thunderbird Poro Point

If you are not strapped for cash, you might want to try your luck at a fun game of slot machines or even a friendly game of Texas Hold’em Poker. While most travelers head to La Union for the surf, Thunderbird’s newly opened casino might come as a welcome break to you if you are sick of the waves and are wishful for a local Las Vegas experience.

Hike and cliff-jump at Tangandan Falls

Located in the quiet and unassuming town of San Gabriel, the majestic Tangandan Falls is generating a lot of buzz among travel enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies who are looking for the next adventure. Take a break from the beach and see these beautiful waterfalls up close. It is located approximately thirty minutes away from the town center and would require a bit of a trek before reaching the waterfalls. However, you should not be daunted by the prospect of the hike as seeing the waterfalls for yourself is pretty much worth the effort.

Offer a prayer at Ma-Cho Temple

One might never imagine ending up in a temple while in La Union, but this is certainly an experience you should never miss whenever you are in town. Ma-Cho Temple is a picturesque temple found atop a hill in San Fernando.  While you can find a myriad of Taoist temples all over the Philippines, what makes Ma-Cho temple especially unique is the fact that it is the first ever Taoist temple and is the only one in the Philippines dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu.

While you are there, you might want to offer a prayer or two. Alternatively, you might want to fill your Instagram-feed with aesthetic photos taken at various areas in the temple. Some of the interesting features you can find include the unusual spider-type dome you can find in the main building, Majestic Five Door gate as well as interiors filled with ancient Chinese decorations.

Go on a truly hip food trip

Apart from being widely regarded as Philippine’s surfing capital, Urbiztondo has been generating a lot of chatter online for being a burgeoning food destination. Over the years, the town of La Union has attracted a fair share of locals and tourists owing to its association of being a surf town. Consequently, this monthly influx of tourists has inspired Urbiztondo’s hipster vibe. In this regard, you can find many Instagram-worthy restaurants as well as a vibrant food scene that offers diverse options insomuch that you can start your day with a Greek breakfast by the beach and cap the night off at a local food joint.

Pick grapes at the town of Bauang

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One might never have thought of picking Grapes while in La Union, but that is precisely why it should be included in your travel itinerary. Before leaving La Union, be sure to drop by some of the grape farms in Bauang where you can go grape-picking and bring your harvest back home as pasalubong. While the idea of grape-picking might be mundane and rather commonplace, the Philippines is a tropical country where grapevines rarely thrive. However, the town Bauang is a pleasant exception owing to its slightly colder weather.

Meet new friends at Flotsam and Jetsam

Part of La Union’s appeal is the prospect of turning to strangers into friends by meeting them in some of the surfing town’s hip bars. As La Union has become somewhat of a tourist hub owing to its allure of being the Philippine’s surfing capital, it should not be surprising to find the town of Urbiztondo concentrated with travelers. If you are not particularly shy and are looking to widen your social sphere, head on over to Flotsam and Jetsam, a nocturnal destination said to be frequented by locals and tourists alike. Have a bottle of your favorite bubbly and strike a conversation or two with some friendly-looking strangers. You might not know it, but you might have potentially made a travel buddy.

Visit the Honeybee Center

Again, this is probably one of the last things you would think of doing in La Union. However, if you wish to experience an up-close and personal interaction with honeybees without getting stung then head on to the La Union Honeybee Center in Bacnotan. In here, visitors are offered a tour of the center and will learn how honey production has become one of the primary sources of livelihood among locals.

Appreciate the arts at La Union Culture and Arts Gallery

La Union has its very own art gallery which is locally dubbed as the Silid ti Adal Ken laing ti La Union Gallery. The Art Gallery showcases local art made by the talented locals themselves. Apart from that, the gallery also gives visitors a glimpse into the province’s rich culture. Incidentally, this is also the home of AGLAUN (Artists Guild of La Union), the group that trains young artists from various art groups such as Guhit Pinas La Union and KARATULA.

Discover the story behind Luna’s Watch Tower

La Union has its very own share of heritage sites—one of which is the St. Catherine of Alexandria Paris (also known as Namacpacan Church). The Spanish pre-colonial church was built in 1690 and currently stands right next to the town plaza. The majestic church is cloaked in grandeur insomuch that it is listed as a National Cultural Treasure and is considered as one of the grandest churches in the province. Beyond the church, however, is the Luna Baluarte or Watchtower which stands along a pebbled beach. It is said that the watchtower served as an impenetrable fortress used by the Spanish colonizers to warn residents of any pirate attacks.

WHERE TO GO IN LA UNION

BAHAY NA BATO

Bahay na Bato is a relatively new tourist attraction in the province of La Union. To get there, you need to head north to the town of Luna from San Juan. What makes Bahay na Bato infinitely interesting is that it is built from stones found along one of Luna’s rare pebbled beaches. Apart from the beguiling exterior is an even more intriguing interior. In Bahay na Bato, you can find an exciting combination of stone and wooden sculptures made by Korean artist, Bong Kim peppered all over the place–making the attraction an excellent destination should you have aesthetic photo backgrounds in mind.

PINDANGAN RUINS

Adventure goes beyond than usual food and beach combo in La Union. If your penchant for exploration remains unquenched by the province’s vast offerings of beaches and food joints, you might want to try something a little different such as heading over to Pindangan Ruins. Be wary though, the place is an old remnant of an old church with a monastery located right behind it. Local tales speak of headless priests that roam around the vicinity making this pit stop a must for thrill-seekers. Individuals who are faint of heart might want to skip including this in their itinerary though.

AMBURAYAN RIVER

The beautiful Amburayan river serves as a boundary of La Union and Ilocos Sur. Apart from that, it also serves as an additional source of income for the people of Sudipen. If you wish to take a break from the beach and ocean scenery, visiting Amburayan River will be a welcome opportunity.

AROSIP ECOTRAIL

The Arosip Ecotrail in La Union provides guests an avenue for adventure with Mother Nature. The eco trail is rife with magnificent views as well as towering trees which makes it truly a breathtaking sight. Adventure enthusiasts and thrill seekers will also flock to this place as it is one of the premier places for trekking in La Union. At its highest point, the trail gives way to the scenic lowland Bacnotan, the West Philippine Sea as well as other landmarks and prominent structures of the province. It also showcases four beautiful waterfalls (Zim-sim-ug Twin Falls, Tekdag-aso Falls (combined water of 2 waterfalls), Pad-tok Falls)

WHERE TO EAT IN LA UNION

Olas Banditos

Mexican lovers will definitely love this hip and authentic Mexican joint in La Union. Olas Banditos is a restaurant in La union that promises to satisfy your Mexican food cravings whether you just came from a surfing session or are nursing a hangover from a night of partying. Some of the restaurant favorites are an order of chicken quesadillas, fish tacos and flautas as well. However, if you wish to try something a little more unique and a bit more appropriate to the place, you should give the Ilocos Norte burrito a try. Apart from the usual fillings you would find in a typical burrito; this burrito is filled with Ilocos or Vigan longganisa which gives it quite the different but interesting flavor.

Great Gamble Seafood Shack

Being so close to the beach and inhaling the crisp and salty sea air would definitely give us a hankering for fresh seafood. Lucky for you, La Union has its fair share of seafood restaurants that would surely satisfy your seafood cravings in no time. One of the more interesting seafood shacks is the Great Gamble Seafood Shack which is known more for their seafood sandwiches and rolls rather than your typical seafood fares. A must-try is their Classic Quarter Pounder–a sandwich that is filled with scallop, shrimp and ¼ crab in a brioche roll in lieu of a beef patty. The restaurant also serves a good range of seafood pasta dishes as well giving diners an extensive set of menu options.

Located at the side of Mad Monkeys burger restaurant, Tagpuan is a local La Union restaurant that serves your typical Filipino food. The place specializes in Filipino rice bowls topped with Filipino favorites such as pares, chicken adobo flakes, tapa and the like. However, it has been said that the restaurants best offering is the bagnet rice bowl which is priced at a hundred and twenty pesos. Bagnet is a staple food in the Ilocos region. This supremely crispy fried pork belly dish is incredibly succulent that you should not be surprised if you would go for a second helping of this delicious pork belly dish.

Sabong La Union Fried Chicken

A plate of crispy fried chicken, regardless of what time of the day it is, will always be a good idea. Sabong la Union Fried Chicken restaurant seems to share this sentiment as they offer different types of fried chicken at any time of the day. Some of their flavors include Korean soy chicken to chicken glazed with honey and bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Fried chicken lovers will definitely see themselves coming back to this restaurant more than once just to sample more of their fried chicken flavors.

El Union Coffee

In lieu of commercialized coffee chains such as Starbucks and The Coffee Bea Tea Leaf, why not try a café that is a little more localized but bursting with interesting coffee flavors? El Union Coffee is La Union’s very own Starbucks, and while La Union has its very own Starbucks in town, El Union Coffee surpasses the ubiquitous coffee shop in terms of popularity in the area, and it is easy to see why.  El Union is often featured in some TV segments, internet, and news articles that feature La Union primarily for their cold brew coffee and horchata. In fact, the place is incredibly popular insomuch that a trip to La Union would be incomplete without including this trendy coffee shop in your travel itinerary.

Halo-Halo de Iloko

As the name suggests, Halo-Halo de Iloko is an eatery in the neighboring town of San Fernando that specializes in Halo-Halo dishes. If you are looking for an excellent spot to cool down after a surfing session, Halo Halo de Iloko is a great place to stop by. Be wary though as the place is typically packed with big groups of diners waiting to be seated. So, if you wish to sample their famous halo-halo, coming during off-hours such as early in the morning or in the middle of the afternoon might be your best bet.

How to get around La Union

Getting around La Union is as simple as taking a jeepney which costs PHP 11 or a tricycle ride to your destination which typically costs PHP50 which are the province’s two main modes of transport. Alternatively, if you brought a car with you, it is fairly easy to get around with the aid of a GPS app on your mobile phone.

Other travel tips for visiting La Union

Take the bus

Admittedly, while taking your own car gives you better leverage on where and when to stop, taking the bus will ultimately save you a lot. Alternatively, you might want to hire a van if you are traveling with a large group as this allows you more comfort as well as stop whenever and wherever you wish.

Visit during off-peak seasons

As La Union is a widely visited Northern Luzon destination, it is easy to see why the prices would skyrocket during the holidays and long-weekends. Tourists prefer visiting the province during the surf season which means that the place can get rather crowded and ultimately making it difficult for you to book affordable deals. April to July might not be the best month for good waves, but you can find better prices.

Book accommodations that are easy on the pocket

La Union has a good range of lodging accommodations which means you can find anything from affordable budget hotels to luxury hotels. If you wish to make the most out of your trip, opt to stay in cheap hostels as you will be spending most of the day outside anyhow.

Buy food at the local market

If you wish to save up on food, buying food from the local market might be your best option. On average, a typical meal would set you back for about two-hundred pesos which can be quite expensive if you take three meals a day. In lieu of restaurants and eateries, opt to buy raw food at the nearest market and have it cooked or grilled for a minimal fee.

Travel with a group

It is common knowledge that traveling with a group can save you a lot. All of the potential expenses will be divided equally—from the accommodation expense to the tour guide fees. More importantly, it is a lot more fun to travel in a group than to venture out alone.

If you do not have any plans for the summer yet, why not kick it off to high gear by commencing it with a trip to La Union? Apart from being the surfing capital, the province has a lot to offer surfers and non-surfers alike that each and every traveler stopping by will find something that would appeal to them in one way or another.

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10 BEST Places to Visit in La Union (2020 Guide)

If you’re heading for La Union, the chances are you’re coming to surf. And why wouldn’t you?! Not only does this stunning region offer some of the best surf in the world, but it also offers the cheapest lessons. So, it’s great for beginners as well as experts! The towns of San Juan and San Fernando are the most popular! 

Of course, it’s not all about San Juan and surfing. There’s more to La Union! With such great surfing, it follows that there are also awesome beaches with pristine sands and warm turquoise waters. If you’d prefer to stay completely on dry land, it’s good to know that the region also boasts waterfalls, vineyards, numerous religious sites and much much more!

With so much to do in La Union, it can be hard to decide what to do first. So, our expert travel writers have compiled a list to help you draw up your La Union itinerary. We’ve found the coolest attractions, landmarks, and places to visit with different travel tastes, budget, and personality in mind. Not only that, but we’ve also given you three of our favourite places to stay in La Union!

So, let’s jump straight in!

Best Places to Stay in La Union

Thinking about where to stay in La Union? Here are three of our favourites. To make sure we’ve got everyone covered budget and style-wise, we’ve picked a hostel, a budget hotel, and even a resort. It’s not as expensive as you might think!

Best Hostel in La Union – Lokal Home

Want to stay in the best hostel in La Union? Then look no further than Lokal Home in San Juan. A traditional Kubo hut, it offers a mix of authenticity and a fun sociable place to stay. Solo travellers can keep their costs down by staying in dorms, while groups can make the most of comfy private rooms

Best Budget Hotel in La Union – Nature’s Healing Home

Our best budget hotel in La Union is a little off the beaten track… A 15 minute drive from San Fernando, it allows you to completely escape into the gorgeous Filipino countryside! There’s an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy both international and local cuisine. Great if you’re planning to hike and bike during your trip! 

Also, check out our reviews of the top hostels in La Union.

Best Hotel in La Union – Bella Vista Resort

Money can go a long way in the Philippines, so if you don’t mind splashing the cash you can get somewhere like this! Not only is it a comfortable and convenient place to stay, but there’s a water park and swimming pool too! So, it’s great if you’re travelling to La Union with the kids!

These are the BEST Places to Visit in La Union!

#1 – urbiztondo beach, a great place to see in la union if you love surfing.

• The best beach in La Union for surfing
• Lots of places to eat and drink nearby
• Great accommodation for all budgets nearby
• Come between October to March for the best surfing!

Why it’s awesome: Looking for one of the best surfing spots in the Philippines? Possibly even the world? Look no further than Urbiztondo Beach – especially between October and March! It’s been tagged as the place where you’ll get the cheapest surfing lessons in the world, so it’s great if you’re a beginner. Because of the beaches popularity, there are loads of accommodation options for all budgets in San Juan, as well as nearby San Fernando. Just make sure to book early to avoid disappointment!

What to do there: Surf, surf, surf! Urbiztondo isn’t really a beach for lying back and catching rays (although you’re welcome to do so, obviously). Urbiztondo’s reputation as the centre of Filipino surfing is deserved for more than just the great waves. There are several surfing camps and schools that offer lessons to locals and tourists alike, some run by world-class international surfers! If you’re worried about safety, pick on that offers an internationally-accredited surf program and state of the art equipment! When you’ve had enough of the waves, there are plenty of restaurants and bars near the beach!

#2 – Ma-Cho Taoist Temple

One of the most important religious places to see in la union.

• The biggest Taoist Temple in the world outside China
• Pray, meditate, and offer donations
• A truly picturesque La Union landmark
• Take a walk in the peaceful temple garden

Why it’s awesome: The Ma-Cho Taoist temple is one of the most important religious attractions in La Union. Overlooking the South China Sea from a perch above San Fernando La Union, it’s the biggest Taoist temple in the world outside of China! It was built in the 1970s in honour of Matzu, a Chinese deity who protects the sea and fisherman. Although anyone is welcome to visit the temple, you will be expected to dress conservatively as it’s a place of worship. Also, holding hands is prohibited at the temple. So, that’s a conversation you’ll need to have with your other half…

What to do there: Ma-Cho Temple is quite the star on Instagram. So, make sure you get some pictures to add to your story! The best time to come up for the views is during sunset, where you can catch it setting beyond the horizon! The temple itself is massively picturesque though, so any time during the day you can get amazing pictures of the interior. In this peaceful place, you can also spend some time meditating – a great way to disconnect from the real world. Whatever you want to do here, don’t miss one of the most famous places in La Union off your itinerary!

#3 – Pagoda Hill

A beautiful and scenic place to check out in la union.

• Admire the traditional Chinese architecture
• Take a leisurely stroll in the evening
• Enjoy the views of San Fernando
• Make sure to stop for a break in the pagoda

Why it’s awesome: Also known as the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Park, Pagoda Hill is a beautiful and scenic place where you CAN hold hands with your other half! Not that that will matter too much to solo travellers… Celebrating the long friendship and history between the two countries (The Philippines was the first country in the world to have a Chinatown) the park is popular with locals and tourists alike, as a stroll here offers gorgeous panoramic views across San Fernando! 

What to do there: There isn’t loads to do at Pagoda Hill, but that’s kind of the point. It’s peaceful and serene atmosphere is somewhere to walk, feel the breeze, and enjoy the magnificent views over San Fernando. You could even take a book or a picnic up there and spend most of the day! Not only is it a beautiful place, but it’s free too so it’s one of the most awesome La Union vacation ideas if you’re on a budget! 

#4 – Tangadan Falls

A beautiful outdoor place to visit in la union.

• One of ten waterfalls in the town of San Gabriel
• Take a dip in the natural basin
• Don’t miss a chance to cliff dive in the upper-tier
• A cheap day trip from San Juan or San Fernando

Why it’s awesome: Although the beaches are undeniably one of the top attractions in La Union, it’d be a shame not to see some of the natural attractions inland too. One of the most impressive is Tangadan Falls in the town of San Gabriel. There’s a network of ten waterfalls in the town, with the lower cascade being the most popular and photogenic! They’re about 50 feet tall and 100 feet wide, so quite impressive! The waterfalls are around 20 minutes from San Juan and it’s roughly 15 pesos in a jeepney.

What to do there: Although it’s nice to take photos of the waterfalls, there’s so much more to do here than just admire them. The cool waters are a great way to escape from the humidity, so why not take a dip in the lower cascade? It’s super refreshing! If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, head to the upper levels of the waterfalls. There may be a smaller drop, but the pool here is deeper and wider – ideal for cliff jumping! Want to really get off the beaten track? Trek for an hour longer to reach Kapandagan falls! 

#5 – Gapuz Grape Farm

A must-see for foodies.

• Enjoy a tour of a working grape farm
• Go on a grape-picking adventure
• Take home a kilo of grapes
• Sample some of the local wine

Why it’s awesome: Where do you think of when it comes to fine wines? France, Italy, Chile, New Zealand. We’re pretty sure that the Philippines doesn’t spring to mind. However, when you travel to San Juan, you’ll be surprised! An easy half-day trip from San Fernando is Gapuz Grape Farm, where you can pick your own grapes as part of their farm tour. Gapuz is not the only grape farm in La Union. There are loads more which are a great day out, including Lomboy in Bauang. 

What to do there: We know what you’re thinking… A tour of a grape farm and we haven’t mentioned wine tasting yet. WORRY NOT! This is one of the best places in La Union to try a local product and get a little tipsy in the process – wine tasting is all part of the fun. If you really like it, why not buy some in the shop to take back to your accommodation? Even though you can buy a kilo of grapes for less than $10, we reckon it’d be a bit of a pain to try and make your own from that! 

#6 – Pindangan Ruins

One of la union’s coolest historical sites.

• Remnants of an old church and monastery
• Home of spooky local ghost stories
• Go at night if you’re feeling really brave!
• Recommended to go with a tour guide

Why it’s awesome: Now for one of the more unusual landmarks in La Union. Pindangan Ruins are the remnants of an old church and monastery which are definitely worth a visit. Their home to spooky local ghost stories! One of the most famous is that a headless priest prowls the ruins each night, either searching for his head or carrying his severed one under his arm. His head even calls for his body to find it! Maybe it’s not the best place to visit if you’re of a nervous disposition!

What to do there: Spooky stories aside, Pindangan Ruins are a fascinating place to visit nonetheless. If you dismiss the stories as a load of old rubbish, or would rather spend the night making the most of the area’s epic bars and clubs, come here during the day instead. It’s really cheap to visit, and you can hire a guide to learn more about the area! Pindangan Ruins are a La Union must see, especially if you want a break from sun, sea, and surfing. And, they’re less than an hour on foot from San Fernando! 

#7 – La Union Botanical Garden

A nice quiet place to see in la union.

• See thousands of different species of plants
• Relax in the Japanese Park
• Enjoy the views from the garden’s mountaintop location
• Take your kids to the Mini zoo and children’s park

Why it’s awesome: If you’ve been indulging in surf lessons during the day and the legendary La Union nightlife after dark, you’re gonna have an epic holiday. However, you’re also going to burn out! So, take some time away from anything too strenuous for an afternoon at the Botanical Garden. It’s made up of a number of themed gardens, which are sure to leave you feeling peaceful and at one with nature! Enjoy the aromas of the fragrance garden, get out of the sun in the shade garden, or imagine you’re in the desert with the Arid Garden! 

What to do there: The La Union Botanical Garden is a great place to visit, especially if you’re travelling with kids! As well as all the lovely themed gardens, there is a park especially dedicated to children, and even a mini-zoo where you can meet local wildlife. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views here rival those of Pagoda Park and Ma-Cho Temple. Despite easily having enough to keep you entertained for half a day, entry is super cheap. So, if you’re wondering how to see La Union on a budget, you could do a lot worse than here! 

Quick Note – Staying Safe in La Union

If you’re thinking about travelling to La Union, you’ll be please to know that it’s one of the safest places in the Philippines. San Fernando and San Juan are the places you’ll have to be most vigilant, but that’s because they’re the busiest tourist centres. Here, you should be on your guard for petty crime. However, most travellers find travel to La Union without any incident at all! 

Don’t forget to sort your travel insurance! We’ve put together a roundup of the best travel insurance for backpackers , or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads now , our favourite travel insurance provider.

#8 – Christ the Redeemer Statue

One of the most incredible free places to go in la union.

• Another amazing viewpoint in La Union
• Just a short walk from the centre of San Fernando
• Watch out for the Good Friday procession if you’re here
• Go in the afternoon so you don’t get sunburn

Why it’s awesome: One of the easiest walks you can do to get an awesome view in San Fernando is to head to the Christ the Redeemer Statue. It’s not as tall as the one in Rio de Janeiro, and it’s certainly not as high up, but it’ll still give you impressive views of the town and San Fernando Bay! Each Good Friday, there’s a procession called Mary’s Way. It starts at St William’s Cathedral, with walkers going barefoot and recreating the stations of the cross. 

What to do there: Obviously, it would be great to see the Good Friday Procession. But since that only happens once a year, your chances of doing that are pretty slim. At any other time of the year though, it’s an awesome place to walk. And you can get up and down in under an hour – including time spent to take photos and enjoy the view! It’s best to go either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as you’ll be less exposed to the sun! 

#9 – Poro Point and its Lighthouse

One of the most underrated places to see in la union.

• Get photos of the Poro Point lighthouse!
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk
• Check out the Thunderbird Resort!
• A popular San Fernando jogging spot

Why it’s awesome: Located at the headland of San Fernando, Poro Point is a lovely place for an evening stroll. The wide boardwalk goes all the way along the coastline and is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclist alike. Poro Point is one of the best places to eat in La Union – there are lots of different restaurants and stalls to choose from, and shaded tables and benches where you can enjoy your meal. A lovely way to end a day! It’s home to a unique lighthouse too – it was built in 1905 and stands on the Military Base, so it’s not accessible to visitors. You can take photos though! 

What to do there: Take a slow walk along the Poro Point boardwalk and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells! Feeling energetic? You could even join the locals in jogging or cycling! If you’re not travelling on a budget, you could look at staying at the Thunderbird Resort, known as the Santorini of Asia. Even if you’re not staying, you can get a day pass and take advantage of the facilities! 

#10 – San Fernando Night Market

A great place in la union if you love to shop.

• Sample the best Filipino street food
• Pick up souvenirs for friends and family
• Affordable and inexpensive
• Be brave and try Balut!

Why it’s awesome: Another of the best places to eat in La Union is the San Fernando night market. This is where to come for tasty and inexpensive Filipino street food. Adventurous and brave foodies may even want to sample Balut… a fertilised duck egg. Of course, there are less outrageous Filipino foods on offer too! As well as buying food, why not check out the souvenir stalls. You might pick up something really cool for your loved ones back home. And they won’t know it only cost you pennies! 

What to do there: The number one reason to visit San Fernando night market is the food. Fish balls, grilled meats, and tropical fruit are all ready to be washed down with an icy cold beer! Just find somewhere to sit, then dine under the stars! The night market is open from 6pm every night and is situated between the Round Market and Mart One Mall! 

Get insured for your trip to La Union!

Remember, when you are traveling you need insurance. World Nomads is our highest recommendation for travel insurance. Fill out the form below to get a quote.

Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple – just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and you’re on your way!

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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in La Union

So, that’s everything from our list of the best things to do in La Union. We hope you’ve found it helpful! La Union is not only an awesome place to begin (or continue) surfing, but it’s also full of places to eat, welcoming local people, and some unique sites. It’s a perfect mix of chilling out on the beach and seeing the most laidback side of Filipino culture!

Whether you want to ride the waves, go swimming in waterfalls, or hunt for a ghost priest at ruins… not often you get to say that… You’ll find something fun to do in La Union!

Now that we’ve helped you plan your La Union itinerary, our work here is done! All that’s left for us is to wish you a fun and safe trip. We hope you have a great vacation in the Philippines!

Yay for transparency! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going.

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10 Newest and Must-Visit La Union Tourist Spots

Beautiful La Union has many treats for local and foreign tourists alike. One of the provinces of the Philippines with a rich history because of its churches and pilgrimage sites, La Union also has natural wonders to show off. Also known as the ‘Garden Coast’, La Union has many homegrown goods such as the grape farms of La Union. It is also one of the best surfing spots in the country.

What’s nice is that it’s only a few hours away from Manila. La Union can be your mountain or beach haven. Either way, the province can offer you so much more, and it is up to you to take all the tease. In this blog, we’ll be talking about La Union tourist spots that you can check out. 

10 La Union Tourist Spots

When visiting La Union, you should see the amazing wonders that the province offers. These spots are proudly La Union:

A natural camping ground for the nature lover, this place has a beautiful view of La Union’s lush forests as well as wooden amenities such as nipa hut cottages and bird’s nest-like chairs. They even have their own “Paluto” or cooking station where you can order fries, chicken neck, calamares, and more.

View their Facebook Page Address: San Agustin, Bauang, La Union

Tangadan Falls

A small but majestic waterfall, this wonder of La Union offers cold and pristine freshwater along the Baroro River. The place has cottages for those who want to stay in and guests can bathe in the 40 feet cascade of the majestic falls.

View their Facebook Page Contact No: 0926 009 6186 Address: San Gabriel, La Union

Kapandagan Falls

Another beautiful fall in La Union, this one is a mystical fall that’s enclosed with sturdy rocks and beautiful forests. This five-tier waterfall can be adventurous to those who seek the thrill.

View their Facebook Page Contact No : (065) 538 9123 Address : Brgy. Cardiz, Bagulin, La Union

Camp Wagi Nature Park

A camping park where you can view the beautiful mountain ranges along with Region 1. You can stay in the nipa hut cottages, go biking, trekking, and taking pictures of the creation of God.

View their Facebook Page Address: Capas, Agoo La Union

Gapuz Grapes Farm

Another vineyard added to your La Union go-to’s, you can do grape-picking and purchase cuttings should you ever want to grow your own grapes. This grape farm is filled with a bountiful harvest.

View their Facebook Page Contact No: 0915 778 4594 Address: Bauang, La Union

Baluarte Watch Tower

Look over the beautiful places of La Union with this ancient 400-year old watchtower, a historical landmark that the Spanish built. It stands proudly on the white beach of Luna.

View their Facebook Page Address: Victoria, La Union

Ma-Cho Temple

This Taoist temple is a trip to old age China because the whole architecture, as well as the location, is perfect for a temple! You can visit the pilgrimage and take shots while seeing the sunset.

View their Facebook Page Contact No: (072) 607 8911 Address: San Fernando, La Union

Bahay na Bato

A beautiful holiday house facing the ocean, this abode made of stone is perfect for your Instagram pictures. The house now stores the works and arts of Bong Kim, a Korean sculptor, and painter.

View their Facebook Page Contact No: (072) 700 5780 Address: Balaoan, La Union

Thunderbird Resorts & Casinos

The all-white theme of the place will make you feel like you’re on the clouds. You can have a wonderful stay at this resort with delicious food, a soothing view, and other high-class amenities.

View their Facebook Page Contact No: 0917 113 4876 Address : San Fernando, La Union

Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel

A place with island festival vibes, this hostel is a popular place for your celebrations. You can watch the sunset, listen to music, have a nice meal, and jam with friends.

View their Facebook Page Contact No : 0917 802 1328 Address : San Juan, La Union

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Top Tourist Spots in La Union [And How To Get There]

• Post author: escapemanila
• Post comments: 0 Comments
• Post last modified: June 12, 2023

Every weekend is a fun one in La Union . With the diverse destinations and tourist spots in La Union , it is understandable why almost every weekend many people drive to the province. You can never run out of activities to do here; it may seem like a laid-back destination where you can just chill and relax but the possibilities of the kind of fun you will have here are endless.

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in La Union, Philippines

San juan beach.

Looking to catch some waves? La Union isn’t considered a premier surf spot for nothing. It’s a great surfing destination because people of any skill level would love it. Waves here have varied difficulty. Doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find some waves that fit your skills. After, you can just chill and grab a bite to eat.

Tangadan Falls

The fairytale-like tourist spot in La Union; the two-tier falls looks more like mystical falls with water that comes out like mist. The upper tier is a shorter drop, however, the pool it has is good for cliff diving because it is deeper. The lower tier, on the other hand, is a place where you can just swim and waddle around. But, the lower tier is the one that does look more magical.

Ma-Cho Temple

Not known by many, but there is actually a Taoist temple found in La Union. This very colorful temple was built for the sea goddess. Built in the year 1975, this temple has 7 stories, all of which have interesting highlights you should see. Check out the Bell Tower, Bamboo Garden, and Majestic Five Door Gate.

Bahay na Bato

By its name, expect to see a house completely built from pebbles and stones. There are different sculptures found in the house which are unique that have made people interested in seeing the entire property. It puts a modern twist to regular tourist spots in La Union. Its design and interior is a sight in itself.

Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

Ever wondered how a resort made it on to this list? Well because the theme of the hotel will make you feel like you just went to Santorini, when technically you’re just in La Union. This luxurious resort stands on a cliff that has an amazing view of the San Fernando Bay and West Philippine Sea. They also have amenities that a big group of friends or family would love. You can book here .

Luna Pebble Beach

Different colors and sizes of pebbles at Luna Pebble Beach; some may think that this is not an ideal beach to go to but the smooth texture of these pebbles is actually quite relaxing on the feet. The ruined watchtower also add character to the beach. It looks historic as it sits with the backdrop of coral waters.

La Union Grape Farm

To have a bit calmer and more relaxing activity, stop by at La Union Grape Farm to personally see how and why grapes from La Union is very famous. You will be met with more than a hundred rows of vineyards; all of which hold the best fresh grapes you might ever taste in the Philippines.

How to get to La Union

There are plenty of bus companies that operater a route from Metro Manila to La Union. Partas Bus have direct routes to Sebay and San Juan, La Union from Cubao. Buses to Vigan and Laoag also pass through La union so you can also take those buses and alight in La Union.

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5 Tourist Spots for Your LA UNION ITINERARY

Last updated: 24 April 2024

La Union is bordered by the Cordillera Mountain Range and the West Philippine Sea. The province became popular for its surfing spots and was even hailed as the Surfing Capital of Northern Luzon along with Baler. However, La Union is more frequented than Baler because of the latter’s proximity to Manila. With the New TPLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX, travel time to La Union could only take 3-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Another reason why La Union is famous among travelers is it’s a favorite stop of most before going up the mountains of Baguio or exploring the rest of the Northern provinces like Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Should you plan a visit soon to the province, here are some activities to do.

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

Surf the waves of San Juan

Taking a trip to La Union isn’t complete without trying to ride the playful waves of San Juan’s beaches. There are various surfing shops that offer lessons. They cater to beginners and pros alike. These lessons cost P500 per hour and include a dedicated instructor and use of boards. If you just want to rent a board, an hour costs P200; a half-day rental is P500 and P800 for a whole day. You can choose a board with mounts for your action cameras to capture your surfing adventure. The shops open at 7:00 AM and close after sunset around 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Take a stroll along the shores of Luna Beach

If you’ve had your fair amount of frolicking across white, fine sands, and would like to experience a rather new one, taking a stroll along the famous Pebble Beach in Luna is an activity you should consider. This unique shoreline makes for a dramatic backdrop for photos. And to add to the already distinct landscape, we’ve heard that the “Baluarte” or watchtower, which had been built in the shores of Pebble Beach some 400 years ago, has finally been restored.

Take a scenic trek to Tangadan Falls

For those who want to take time away from the beach and enjoy more of nature and its wonders, a trek to Tangadan Falls in the town of San Gabriel is a must. To reach the falls, one must go on a 45- to 60-minute hike. It is worth it because, in addition to the stunning cascade, Tangadan’s location is very near the town of San Juan, which means you can take a dip in the cool waters of Urbiztondo beach afterward.

Explore Ma-cho Temple in San Fernando

Ma-cho Temple in the city of San Fernando is a Taoist temple located on top of a hill. The structures are festooned with oriental elements like dragons and terracotta roofs. Furthermore, with a height of almost 70 feet above sea level, you’ll also get to have the best views of the city and surrounding waters here.

Experience Greece in Thunderbird Resort

If traveling to Greece is in your bucket list, then you will love a visit to Thunderbird Resort La Union. Here, you can get the classic Greek vibe without putting a significantly European dent in your pocket. The buildings are designed like the ones you can find in Santorini – pristine and blinding white with accents of deep cerulean. There are two scenic pools that you can enjoy, plus a wide reception area for events. Head out to the nearby beach, slow down a bit and watch the sunset. Afterward, kick off the night with a cocktail or beer in the resort’s world-class restaurant.

Best Time to Visit La Union

Anytime is a good time for a La Union adventure. Weekends are usually full of weekend warriors looking for a short escape from a stressful work week. If you want a more peaceful and tranquil environment, weekdays are your best bet. As for the weather, it depends on what activities you’re planning to do on your trip. If you’re in La Union for surfing, October to March are the best months. The waves and winds are most cooperative. But if you’re there to relax and watch the waves and not go surfing, the summer months are best, which are April and May .

Where to Stay in La Union

San Fernando City is the capital city of La Union. This is where most of the economic biz of the province happens. Poro point, where the international seaport and Thunderbird Resort and Casino are located, is also a popular destination for tourists. San Juan is the surfing capital of the province. If surfing is your jive, booking a hotel in Urbiztondo Beach is the best option. There are several beachfront properties in the area, ranging from hostels, hotels, and villas.

Top Hotels on Agoda

• AUREO RESORT LA UNION ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• KAHUNA BEACH RESORT AND SPA ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• AWESOME HOTEL LA UNION ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• LITTLE SURFMAID RESORT ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• COSTA VILLA BEACH RESORT ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!

Top Hotels on Booking.com

• THUNDERBIRD RESORTS – PORO POINT ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• 3BU HOSTEL LA UNION ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• ISLA BONITA BEACH RESORT ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• THE ESCAPE SAN JUAN ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
• G HOTEL LA UNION ✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!

If you want more suggestions with more details about each hotel, you can also check our Top 10 Hotels & Resorts in La Union article.

Find more La Union Hotels!

Watch related videos on youtube.

You can watch our Things to Do in La Union for Non-Surfers video below. You can also find other related videos on our YouTube channel .

Updates Log

2024.04.24 – Updated rates and Where to Stay section

2019.03.15 – First uploaded

Related Article: MANILA to LA UNION Bus Schedules & Operators

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A Perfect 3 Days La Union Itinerary

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on November 12, 2023

Categories Philippines

3 Days La Union Itinerary – We will show you in this blog post our La Union itinerary from surfing, there are other La Union tourist spots to visit and things to do around La Union for your next trip.

In the Philippines, La Union is  one of the most popular spots for surfers . But this place is more than just its beautiful waves!

Read here  where to stay in La Union  and top  San Juan La Union Resorts

Table of Contents

SIM CARD AT MANILA AIRPORT

I wouldn’t recommend you to buy a sim card at Manila airport. If you wish comfort you can buy eSim online and if you aren’t in a hurry just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Manila. Read here Philippines sim card for tourist and best Philippines eSim

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES

You can get accommodation starting from 800-1000 PHP (less than $20 USD ) for a room in a guesthouse. Can you imagen if you are two of you traveling in the Philippines, it will be $10 USD each.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

HOW TO GET TO LA UNION

Getting to la union by bus from manila.

If you are getting from Manila to La Union by bus . The most popular is  Partas  with routes going to  Laoag, Vigan and San Fernando in La Union . Prices are around  500 PHP  per head. The travel time is around  5-7 hours  depending on traffic and where you are coming (from Cubao or Pasay).

Once you are in San Fernando, you can take  a jeepney to Urbiztondo Beach or San Juan,  where most of the accommodation and restaurants are. The price for the jeepney ride is  11 PHP.  There are also tricycles available if you prefer a solo ride.

If you went by bus with Partas, there are a few direct trips to San Juan Beach in La Union. There are a couple of them actually, one in the afternoon and one at night.

GETTING FROM PAMPANGA TO LA UNION BY BUS

If you are getting to from Pampanga to La Union. We chose this option since we are based in Angeles City and we traveled by bus with Partas. The travel time from Pampanga to La Union was  around 4-5 hours  and there is no fixed schedule.

However, we observed that there is a few buses take trips during the day. The price from San Fernando in La Union to DAU Terminal was  333 PHP.

GETTING TO LA UNION BY BUS FROM VIGAN

If you are getting to La Union from Vigan. You can take a 2-hour bus ride that costs around  250 PHP  to La Union. There are hourly bus rides to San Fernando and La Union.   Read here  how to get from La Union to Vigan

INTERNET AND WIFI CONNECTION IN LA UNION

Hotels and other establishments in La Union offer  free wifi for guests and tourists . The internet in La Union used to be pretty slow, but recently it become pretty reliable but you can still experience slowness at times. Luckily, the connection improved. You can also get  LTE connection with Globe and Smart  around La Union.

Read here the best Filipino sim for tourist !

BEST TIME TO VISIT LA UNION

Like any other place in the Philippines there are two kinds of seasons-  the dry season from November to April  and the  wet season from May to October.

It is recommended that travelers visit during dry season, especially from  December  to  February  when temperatures are much cooler and touring will most likely not be interrupted by rains and will not be really hot going around.

Click here to know more about the weather in La Union !

DAILY BUDGET TO VISIT LA UNION

For budget or DIY travelers, you’ll surely choose cheaper options especially when it comes to accommodation.

With  1500 PHP,  it can be a good budget with food, transportation and accommodation plus entrance fees to some spots since most of them are with donation or free of charge. You can go for local food for  50-70 PHP  in local carinderias and around  150 PHP  in local restaurants in La Union, where you will find Filipino and Western food.

For accommodation, a  budget room  would cost minimum  1000 PHP ($20 USD) and you can go up to 5000 PHP . Airbnb options are starting from  $15-25 . CLICK HERE TO BOOK WITH AGODA   FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP IN LA UNION .

Click here if you want to get your discount booking activities in the Philippines with Klook !

LA UNION ITINERARY

Day 1 itinerary in la union: going around.

The best way to move around La Union is renting a motorbike you can find them  500-700 PHP  for a day. Or you can rent a tricycle for the whole day around  1200 PHP  and bringing to all the tourist spots in La Union. If you are coming from Manila we suggest you to take a night bus. So you can start early morning your La Union itinerary.

Visiting the main tourist spots in La Union Ma-Cho Temple, Balay na Bato, Pebble Beach, Baluarte Watchover, Poro Point Lighthouse, Namacpacan Church and finishing your day for the sunset at Urbiztondo Beach. After sunset you have to go out for restaurants and a drink since La Union nightlife is so popular in the Philippines.

MA-CHO TEMPLE

Balay na bato.

One of the tourist spots in La Union is Balay na Bato or Bahay na Bato, or Noble Stone House. It was a rest house that turned into a tourist spot. Balay na Bato is owned by a couple from Baguio and it features a lot of stone sculptures by Vong Kim, a Korean artist. Entrance fee costs less than  PHP 50 .

PEBBLE BEACH

In Luna, La Union, locals collect pebbles from the Pebble Beach. They sort out the pebbles and handpick the best ones so they can sell them to other countries. They believe that the beautiful pebbles in La Union won’t run out soon.

BALUARTE WATCHOVER

Baluarte Watchover is located in Pebble Beach in Luna, La Union. This is a mix of modern and old watchover, with the view to the calm sea. If you love taking photos, the door with padlocks is a great background!

PORO POINT LIGHTHOUSE

This lighthouse was an old one, built in 1905 during American occupation in the Philippines. It is 8 meters high and made up of concrete and it also has a gallery but no lantern. Take note that it is not accessible by visitors because it’s located in a military base.

You can just take a photo of the lighthouse for remembrance. However, there are rumors that they will soon develop the lighthouse as a tourist destination. Hopefully, haha!

NAMACPACAN CHURCH

This church houses the image of Our Lady of Namacpacan, a the title given to the Virgin Mary by the natives of La Union. If you are a Catholic who loves church/cathedral hopping, you’ll definitely want to stop by here to offer your prayers and just enjoy the silence of the church.

URBIZTONDO BEACH

The main beach for surfing. You will find shops for  renting surfing boards  if you want to learn how to surf. Around the area, you will find restaurants and places to stay in La Union depending on your budget and preferences.

NIGHTLIFE IN LA UNION

La Union is one of the  most popular provinces for nightlife , apart from surfing. You can go for a beer and dance if you like it. Enjoy the night and socialize with the locals! The option of restaurants is wide, with every restaurant having affordable prices. We enjoyed partying in La Union and meeting new friends.

DAY 2 LA UNION ITINERARY

You can start your day early morning going to Tangadan Falls. Trekking and enjoying a swim can be great for the morning. After this you can pass by  Thunderbird Resort  where you can get an entrance ticket for your day  500 PHP  and you can have  300 PHP  consumables for your lunch.

There is a nice pool, great views and there are a few spots to take pictures if you like it. The Resort is popular because is similar to Santorini with the colors white and blue over the place. It just a few minutes driving from La Union and if your have the budget you can stay overnight.  Click here to know their availability and book your stay starting at $199 USD per night!

TANGADAN FALLS

If you are coming from San Juan Beach or San Fernando La Union, you have to  ride a jeep to San Gabriel  for around  20 PHP . Just mention to the jeepney driver that you are going to Tangadan Falls and he will drop you off in the tricycle terminal where you can get a  tricycle for 50 PHP for two people.

The entrance fee for Tangadan Falls is  30 PHP.  You can have a guide for  500-600 PHP  (good enough for 6-7 people and you can always join a group to share expenses) and they will guide you around the  trek for 50-60 minutes  to get to Tangadan Falls.

THUNDERBIRD RESORT

You can visit  Thunderbird Resort  in La Union for spending the whole day. The entrance fee is  500 PHP (300 PHP  consumables) for adults and  300 PHP (300 PHP  consumables) for kids.

You can enjoy of a swim, casino and walking around the property. It’s a nice place to take pictures around. The food is delicious and you can relax with your smoothie in the pool area. If you like taking pictures, you will feel the vibe of  Santorini  with the villas and the similar white and blue colors Santorini.

Click here to know their availability and book your stay starting at $199 USD per night!

MORE DAYS IN LA UNION ITINERARY

Day 3 la union itinerary.

Apart from relaxing in San Juan Beach or surfing there are also a few plans that you can do. visiting a Grape Farm, Immuki Island, Tapuakan River one of the cleanest in the Philippines and you can also go to Bacnotan only 20 minutes driving from La Union where you can find calm and relaxed beaches. There is a local market in Bacnotan where you can stop for lunch and having fresh juices.

Yes, there are a number of grape farms in La Union. One of the most famous grape farms is in Bauang, La Union. It is called  Lomboy Grape Farm , the one believed to be the first grape farm in the Philippines.

Entrance Fee is  PHP 100 and PHP 150  for grape picking. It is open from 7AM to 4PM from Monday to Saturday and 7AM to 3:00 PM on Sunday.

IMMUKI ISLAND

This beach has blue-green lagoons and natural pools. It’s just 30 minutes away from San Juan Beach.  Immuki is a word derived from the name sea slugs, that can thrive only on dead corals.

TAPUAKAN RIVER

Tapuakan River or Tapuacan River is claimed to be the cleanest Inland River of the northern region of the Philippines. It has crystal clear waters flowing from the mountain top towards the river mainstream.

It’s definitely a must to visit this place. Just remember to bring your own food as there are no nearby restaurants or stores. Also, if you are bringing kids on your trip, be careful as the place is rocky.

BACNOTAN BEACHES

It’s just 10 kilometers North from San Juan Beach where you will find other beaches. Some of them are great for surfing. But if you aren’t a surfer, there are also beaches which are more relaxing where you can just swim, sunbathe or relax at the shore. It’s great to visit Bacnotan beaches at sunset time!

WHERE TO STAY IN LA UNION

Our choice was the luxury stay at  Thunderbird Resort  where we enjoyed a villa with views to the golf court. We had amazing time at sunset taking pictures, walking around, and just relaxing. It’s inspired by Santorini and it’s great to experience it!

Well, just in case you haven’t gone to Greece yet or you went to Santorini like us and you want to have amazing memories again. And of course, we had amazing time swimming in the pool area since it wasn’t very crowded at that time.

It’s located  5-10 minutes  drive away to San Fernando and the area is perfect for resting.

KAHUNA BEACH RESORT AND SPA

Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa is located in Urbiztondo with free Wi-Fi in all rooms, convenience store, daily housekeeping, gift/souvenir shop, Wi-Fi in public areas.

The hotel features 30 beautifully appointed guest rooms, many of which include television LCD/plasma screen, internet access – wireless, internet access – wireless (complimentary), non smoking rooms, air conditioning. The complete list of recreational facilities is available at the hotel, including hot tub, golf course (within 3 km), outdoor pool, spa, massage.

Address: Urbiztondo, San Juan, San Juan, La Union, Philippines, 2514

Click here to check prices and availability !

AUREO RESORT LA UNION

If you are looking for a more laid-back stay in La Union, we recommend Aureo Resort La Union. It’s a beach resort with great facilities such as the outdoor pool and located just in front of the beach. You can choose which view you want in picking your preferred room- beach view, pool view, garden view, or lagoon view.

Aureo Resort is located in San Francisco, San Fernando, La Union.

You can book a room for as low as  $133 USD.

Click here to book your stay at Aureo Resort La Union.

WHERE TO STAY IN LA UNION ON A BUDGET

Hotel mikka.

To start our list of places where to stay in La Union under the cheap hotels category, there’s Hotel Mikka which will surely make the most out of your money. For only an affordable price, you’ll get to sleep in their neat, air-conditioned rooms with TV and private bathroom. Perfect place for resting when visiting La Union tourist spots.

However, wifi is not available in all rooms. For some rooms, you can pay for an additional fee if you want. They also offer airport transfer for a fee. You don’t have to worry if you get hungry because they have their own restaurant where you can dine. What the guests love about hotel Mikka is the service of their staff, who are very polite and friendly to guests.

Hotel Mikka can be found at Quezon Ave., San Fernando, La Union.  Click here to know their availability and book your stay starting at $18 USD per night!

LA GRANJA EXCLUSIVE

A cheaper option in where to stay in La Union is La Granja Exclusive. This one is even more awesome because they have a  tent  option, which is the cheapest in their place.

Their tents are just in the garden where the outdoor pool is, so it is a relaxing alternative if you prefer to stay outside that in their exclusive rooms. For every option at La Granja Exclusive, you may use the barbecue grill, pool, and free parking. They even have free Wifi but for public areas only.

La Granja Exclusive is at Tabtabungao Barangay Road, 2506 Rosario, La Union.

Click here to know their availability and book your stay starting at $11 USD per night !

HOTEL ARIANA

This 3-star hotel offers guests a nice experience in La Union for an affordable price. Their rooms are all air-conditioned with its own TV and bathroom.

The guests love that it is near La Union’s tourist spots and that they have their own restaurant, bar and coffee shop. Also, if you’d like to relax after touring La Union all day, you can avail their massage!

Hotel Ariana is at Paringao, Bauang, La Union.

Click here to know their availability and book your stay starting at $40 USD per night!

VILLA ELITA

Villa Elita has a “Very Good” rating with a score of 8/10. Because of this, your stay is almost guaranteed to be satisfactory. Their services include a 24-hour service desk and room service. This hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant where you can dine.

They also offer breakfast served in your room if you want, but expect to pay additional fee. Inside their bedrooms are a TV, private bathroom, comfortable bed, toiletries, closet, and you can enjoy their free wifi. If you have a vehicle, you can also avail the parking for free. The guests love the Continental, Asian, and American food, as well as the free wifi in every room.

Villa Elita is located at National Highway, Brgy Ipet, 2520 Sudipen, La Union.

Click here to know their availability and book your stay starting at $31 USD per night!

Are you planning to visit La Union this year? Don’t forget to share our La Union itinerary with your friends and hope you enjoy La Union together!

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys

Happy travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.