la union top 10 tourist attractions

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

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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
• Antipolo & Rizal Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Baguio Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Baler Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Bataan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Batanes Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Batangas Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Camarines Norte Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Cavite Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Coron Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• El Nido Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Ilocos Norte Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Laguna Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Marinduque Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Masbate Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Palaui Island Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Pampanga Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Pangasinan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Puerto Princesa Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Romblon Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Sagada Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Sorsogon Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Subic & Zambales Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Tagaytay Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Tinglayan Kalinga Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Tuguegarao Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Bacolod Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Bohol Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Boracay Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Biliran Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Catarman Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Catbalogan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Cebu Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Dumaguete Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Guimaras Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Roxas City Capiz Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Siquijor Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Southern Leyte Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Tacloban City Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Basilan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Bislig and Hinatuan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Butuan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Cagayan de Oro Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Camiguin Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Cotabato City Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Dipolog and Dapitan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Iligan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Kidapawan Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Marawi Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Mati Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Ozamiz Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Siargao Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Zamboanga City Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary

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Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

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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

Share this:

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

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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

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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

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

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 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.

Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , and Pinterest , and Team Out Of Town  on YouTube  for more La Union tourist spots.

• Ultimate List of the Best Hotels and Beach Resorts in La Union, Philippines
• Ultimate List Of The Best Hotels And Beach Resorts In La Union, Philippines
• The Old San Fernando Train Station in Pampanga

Written by Team Out of Town

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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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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.

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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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

Discover the Top 20 La Union Tourist Spots and other FAQs

La Union, often referred to as "Elyu" by locals, is a popular destination in the Philippines known for its surfing spots, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. This province in the Ilocos Region offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Let's explore the top 20 La Union tourist spots.

1. urbiztondo beach.

Known as the surfing capital of the North, Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan offers waves perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Surfing lessons are available for those who want to ride the waves.

2. Ma-Cho Temple

This Taoist temple in San Fernando City offers a stunning view of the South China Sea. It's a peaceful place to unwind and appreciate Chinese architecture.

3. Tangadan Falls

Located in San Gabriel, Tangadan Falls offers a thrilling adventure. After an hour's trek, you'll be rewarded with a beautiful waterfall where you can swim and cliff dive.

4. Pindangan Ruins

Visit the remains of an old church in San Fernando City. It's a serene place that tells a part of La Union's history.

5. Grape Farms in Bauang

Grape picking is a popular activity in Bauang. Various farms offer this unique experience, and you get to take home the grapes you've picked!

6. Baluarte Watch Tower

This Spanish-era watchtower in Luna provides a panoramic view of the sea. It's a reminder of the province's rich history.

7. La Union Botanical Garden

Located in San Fernando City, this botanical garden is home to various plant species. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers.

8. Luna Pebble Beach

Unlike most beaches, Luna Pebble Beach is covered in pebbles and rocks. It's a unique spot for picnics and photo ops.

9. Bahay na Bato

A house made of stones and recycled materials, Bahay na Bato in Luna is an art gallery and a popular photo spot among tourists.

10. Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

Experience luxury at Thunderbird Resorts in San Fernando City. It offers world-class accommodations, a casino, and a stunning view of the sea.

11. Halo Halo De Iloko

Taste the famous Halo-Halo de Iloko, a local dessert in San Fernando City. The restaurant also offers other Ilocano dishes.

12. Christ the Redeemer Statue

Located in Agoo, this statue is a smaller replica of the one in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It offers a panoramic view of Agoo.

13. Namacpacan Church

Visit the centuries-old Namacpacan Church in Luna, known for its beautiful, well-preserved facade.

14. Agoo Eco Fun World

Enjoy a fun-filled day at this eco-park in Agoo, which offers various outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and camping.

15. San Juan Night Market

Visit the night market in San Juan for a variety of local street food and goods. It's a great place to experience the local culture.

16. La Union Science Centrum and Museum

Learn more about science and technology at this interactive museum in San Fernando City.

17. Wallace Air Station

Visit this former American Air Force radar station turned into a park in San Fernando City. It offers a panoramic view of the West Philippine Sea.

18. Noble Tower

This 11-story tower in San Fernando City offers a 360-degree view of La Union. It's the perfect spot for sunset viewing.

19. Bell Church

This Taoist church in Bauang is known for its intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere. It's a piece of Chinese culture in the heart of La Union.

20. Immuki Island

Also known as the "Shell Island," Immuki Island in Bacnotan is a hidden paradise perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling in La Union

1. What is the best time to visit La Union?

The best time to visit La Union for surfing is from July to October when the waves are at their highest. For general tourism, the dry months from November to April are the best time to visit.

2. How do I get to La Union?

La Union is easily accessible from Manila by bus or car, with travel time taking about 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic.

3. What should I eat in La Union?

Don't miss the local dishes such as dinengdeng (vegetable stew), pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew), and the famous La Union grapes. For dessert, try the Halo-Halo de Iloko.

4. Where can I surf in La Union?

Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan is the most popular surfing spot in La Union. It caters to both beginners and experienced surfers.

5. Where can I buy souvenirs in La Union?

San Juan Night Market and various souvenir shops around the province offer local products, such as woven items, pottery, and local delicacies.

6. Can I visit the grape farms all year round?

Yes, but the best time to visit for grape picking is from March to May.

Discover the vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and thrilling adventures that La Union has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, there's something for everyone in this stunning province. Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey in enjoying the La Union tourist spots!

Unveiling The Top 20 Pangasinan Tourist Spots plus Travel FAQs

Uncovering the top 20 ilocos sur tourist spots.

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

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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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Visit La Union: 10 Tourist Spots That You Don’t Want to Miss

Joanna marie o. santos november 16, 2022.

Many tourists flock to La Union each year to catch some waves and some sun at its many beaches, but what many don’t realize is that there are a ton of other tourist attractions and spots in the province that are just as breathtaking. From historical sites to wonders of nature, La Union’s spots are definitely one that travelers shouldn’t miss out on.

Plan your trip to La Union by visiting the 10 worth-seeing tourist spots to exist!

Why Visit La Union?

From historic man-made sites to natural wonders, discover the island’s laid-back coastal town with a diverse set of never-before-seen attractions as La Union stands as one of the most renowned weekend destinations in the country and hailed as the Surfing Capital of the North - known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots and noteworthy adventures, there is still so much more to explore around the island. With that said, here are the top 10 places to visit that will make you fall in love with La Union even more.

10 Tourist Spots in La Union You Don’t Want to Miss

Immuki island.

Off the coast of Barangay Paraoir, Immuki island is known for its beautiful mangroves with three picturesque lagoons, and an easy 30-minute drive from San Juan. 

Urbiztondo Beach

One advantage of chilling in Urbiztondo Beach is its proximity and serves an array of dining options, and also another place to surf in and bond with family and friends. 

Camp Wagi Nature Park

Explore Camp Wagi Nature Park overlooking the breathtaking mountain ranges while making yourself feel at home at the nipa hut cottages. 

Pindangan Ruins

This is the first-ever Catholic Church of San Fernando alongside the historical landmark of the Carmelite Monastery, and constructed under Spanish rule in 1764. For the safety of all visitors and preservation of the ruins, climbing up the walls is strictly prohibited. 

Paraoir Man Made Forest

The beauty of Paraoir Man Made Forest draws visitors to park their vehicles on the side of the road and take pictures. When visiting this tourist spot to take photos, look out for the road for any upcoming vehicle and safely park your car to avoid traffic or accidents. 

Darigayos Beach

This may be one of the calmest beaches you’ll ever find in the municipality of Luna. Darigayos beach also offers huts and cottages for tourists. 

Agoo Basilica

The Franciscan order founded the basilica in 1578. Agoo Basilica, officially named Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity, was first dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. After construction from the earthquake, the basilica was and is the seat of the Santa Monica Parish of the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Fernando de La Union, and houses holy relics of saints. The basilica is also contains Hebrew script carvings of the ten commandments. 

Luna Watchtower

The centuries-old site, also called the Baluarte Watchtower, is one of the five historic watchtowers in La Union, and serves as a lookout tower during the Chinese, Japanese, and Moro pirates invasion back in the day. At present, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions, and stands next to the pebble beach, showing a beautiful scenery that visitors will get to capture. 

Ma-Cho Temple

Constructed in 1977, the temple stands as an iconic cultural landmark in San Fernando. It is the first Taoist temple in the Philippines, serving dedication to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu (Ma Cho).

Tangadan Falls

Known as the most famous cascade in the province, the Tangadan Falls rests in the mountainous area of San Gabriel that contains the Baroro River. It flows down in two tiers, with an open pool alongside breathtaking limestone cliffs and boulders.

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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!

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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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Top Things to Do in La Union - La Union Must-See Attractions

Things to do in la union, tours near la union.

3 Tapas Cartagena walking tour

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Shore Excursion: 4-Hour Cartagena Walking Tour

Discover two wonderful cities: Cartagena & Murcia on a private tour

Murcia and Cartagena Shore Excursion Private Tour

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Traveloka Accomodation

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!

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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La Unión - 10 attractions to visit!

Travel and respect, explore and smile, be curious and kind. have wild trips, top 10 attractions to visit in la unión and around.

General info 1. Conchagua Volcano 2. Cuco Beach 3. La Tortuga Verde 4. Las Tunas Beach 5. Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site 6. Puerto de La Libertad 7. Isla Tasajera 8. El Tamarindo Beach 9. Mirador de las Flores 10. La Union Rail Museum

A trip to La Unión

Conchagua Volcano - Top attractions in La Unión -1

Conchagua Volcano, located in the department of La Unión in El Salvador, is one of the top attractions in the area for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This active volcano offers visitors breathtaking views, hiking opportunities, and unique geological formations. The volcano stands at 1,320 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the eastern region of El Salvador. Its lush green slopes are complemented by a diverse range of flora and fauna, offering a scenic vista for avid photographers. The hike to the summit of Conchagua Volcano is a popular activity among visitors. It is a moderately challenging trek that takes approximately three hours to complete. Along the way, hikers will be treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Fonseca and neighboring Nicaragua and Honduras. At the top, visitors can enjoy a unique experience of peering into the volcanic crater. The crater features a sulfuric lagoon, emitting smoke and steam, adding to the volcano's mystique. It is advised to bring a jacket or warm clothing, as temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes. In addition to hiking, Conchagua Volcano offers opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. The diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of bird species, including various species of hummingbirds. The volcano is also known for its resident population of white-tailed deer, providing a chance for nature enthusiasts to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. For those who prefer a more relaxed visit, there are picnic areas and viewpoints available where visitors can unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. There are also local guided tours available, providing informative insights into the volcano's geological features, historical significance, and cultural importance. When visiting Conchagua Volcano, it is recommended to bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Visitors should be aware that the weather can change quickly, so it is best to check the forecast and plan accordingly. Overall, Conchagua Volcano is a must-visit attraction in La Unión, El Salvador, offering a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural significance. With its unique geological formations and breathtaking views, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday !

Cuco Beach - Top attractions in La Unión -2

Cuco Beach, located in La Unión, El Salvador, is a stunning coastal destination that offers visitors a picturesque getaway. Known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and lush palm trees, this idyllic beach is a must-visit for tourists seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The calm and gentle waves at Cuco Beach make it a popular spot for swimming and other water activities. The beach is also famous for its exquisite sunsets, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic walks along the shore. Many visitors take advantage of the tranquil atmosphere to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of the surroundings. For adventure seekers, Cuco Beach offers excellent opportunities for surfing. The consistent waves and surf-friendly conditions attract surfers from all over the world. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you will find plenty of waves to challenge yourself on this beach. Aside from the natural beauty of the beach itself, Cuco Beach is near stunning mangrove forests and lagoons. These ecosystems are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. In terms of accommodations, visitors to Cuco Beach have a range of options to choose from. There are luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses in the area, ensuring that every traveler can find accommodations to suit their preferences and budget. When it comes to dining, visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious seafood dishes at the beachfront restaurants. From fresh grilled fish to savory ceviche, you can savor the authentic flavors of El Salvador while enjoying the breathtaking views of the beach. Overall, Cuco Beach in La Unión, El Salvador, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you want to surf the waves, explore the mangroves, or simply relax on the beach, this destination promises an unforgettable experience.

La Tortuga Verde - Top attractions in La Unión -3

Located on the eastern coast of El Salvador, La Tortuga Verde is a popular destination in La Unión. This eco-friendly beachfront resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists. One of the main attractions at La Tortuga Verde is its pristine beach, which stretches for miles, providing a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and beach games while enjoying the warm tropical climate. For nature enthusiasts, the resort provides easy access to nearby attractions like Bahía de Jiquilisco, El Imposible National Park, and the Conchagua Volcano. These destinations offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring diverse ecosystems. La Tortuga Verde is also known for its commitment to turtle conservation. Visitors can join turtle releases during the nesting season and learn about the efforts to protect these endangered creatures. The resort actively supports various conservation initiatives, providing a unique chance for tourists to contribute to the preservation of marine biodiversity. In addition to its natural beauty, La Tortuga Verde offers a range of amenities and activities. The resort features comfortable accommodation options, including beachfront cabanas, eco-rooms, and a backpacker's hostel. Visitors can also enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves fresh seafood and other local dishes. For those seeking adventure, La Tortuga Verde organizes tours and water activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The resort also has a community outreach program that allows tourists to engage with the local community and learn about their traditions and culture. La Tortuga Verde is easily accessible from nearby cities such as San Salvador and San Miguel, making it a convenient destination for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or a unique cultural experience, La Tortuga Verde in La Unión offers something for everyone.

Las Tunas Beach - Top attractions in La Unión -4

Las Tunas Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in La Unión, El Salvador. Located along the eastern coast of the country, this stunning beach offers pristine natural beauty and a range of recreational activities. The beach is known for its soft golden sand, clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It provides the perfect setting for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. The calm waves make it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, providing an opportunity to explore the underwater world. For those seeking an adventure, Las Tunas Beach offers excellent surfing conditions, attracting surfers of all levels. The consistent waves and consistent offshore winds make it a popular spot to catch some thrilling waves. In addition to its natural beauty, the beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, adding to its charm. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and soaking in the sun. Las Tunas Beach is also renowned for its stunning sunsets. Watching the sun go down over the horizon creates a magical and romantic ambiance, making it a favorite spot for couples and photographers. Facilities and amenities at the beach include parking areas, restaurants, and beachside bars where visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages. There are also areas designated for picnicking and camping, providing opportunities for overnight stays. Overall, Las Tunas Beach is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities in La Unión, El Salvador. Whether you prefer to relax on the beach, indulge in water sports, or witness breathtaking sunsets, this top attraction has something for everyone. To rent a car at the best price for La Unión, check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site - Top attractions in La Unión -5

Located in the region of La Unión in El Salvador, the Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site is a must-visit attraction for history and archaeology enthusiasts. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and culture of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. Dubbed the "Pompeii of the Americas," Joya de Cerén is an exceptionally well-preserved ancient village that was buried under volcanic ash nearly 1,400 years ago. The site was accidentally discovered in 1976 during the construction of a water project, revealing a treasure trove of artifacts and structures. Visitors to Joya de Cerén have the extraordinary opportunity to explore the remains of houses, workshops, communal buildings, and even ancient crop fields. The volcanic ash that covered the village acted as a natural preservative, allowing archaeologists to uncover intricate details of daily life, including furniture, utensils, tools, and even food stored in ancient pottery vessels. Guided tours are available at the site, providing insightful explanations about the significance of each structure and artifact. It is truly a fascinating experience to witness how the Mayans cultivated maize, beans, and cacao, as well as observe the sophisticated irrigation systems they employed. The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site also features a visitor center, where you can learn more about the Mayan civilization and the excavation process. The center offers exhibits showcasing the daily life, customs, and artwork of the ancient inhabitants, providing additional context to enhance your visit. To make the most of your trip to Joya de Cerén, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, as there are large areas to explore under the sun. Additionally, it is important to respect the site and follow the rules to not damage any of the delicate archaeological remains. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the ancient Mayan civilization, a visit to Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site is an enriching experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Don't miss the opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the remarkable cultural heritage of El Salvador's La Unión region.

Puerto de La Libertad - Top attractions in La Unión -6

Isla tasajera - top attractions in la unión -7.

Isla Tasajera is a scenic island located in the La Unión department of El Salvador. Known for its natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage, it is one of the top attractions in the region. One of the main attractions of Isla Tasajera is its stunning beaches. Visitors can relax on the white sandy shores and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. The island offers a tranquil and serene environment, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach picnics. Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse wildlife found on Isla Tasajera. The island is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, frigatebirds, and herons. Additionally, visitors may catch a glimpse of sea turtles, dolphins, and even whales during certain times of the year. Exploring the mangrove forests is another highlight of a visit to Isla Tasajera. Embarking on a boat tour through the mangroves allows visitors to observe the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants up close. This experience offers a chance to learn about the importance of mangroves in preserving coastal areas and providing a habitat for numerous marine species. For those interested in cultural immersion, Isla Tasajera offers an authentic experience with its friendly locals. Visitors can interact with the community and learn about their traditional fishing practices, artisanal crafts, and delicious local cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the island's fresh seafood dishes, such as ceviche or grilled fish. To make the most of your visit to Isla Tasajera, consider staying overnight in one of the eco-friendly accommodations available on the island. These options provide a unique experience, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature while enjoying comfortable amenities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an adventure in nature, or a cultural immersion, Isla Tasajera in La Unión, El Salvador, offers something for everyone. Embark on an unforgettable journey to this enchanting island and experience the beauty and charm it has to offer.

El Tamarindo Beach - Top attractions in La Unión -8

El Tamarindo Beach is one of the top attractions in La Unión, El Salvador. Located on the Pacific coast, this picturesque beach offers a serene and peaceful environment for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. One of the main highlights of El Tamarindo Beach is its stunning natural beauty. The beach is surrounded by lush green mountains and pristine turquoise waters, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Visitors can enjoy long walks along the sandy shore, taking in the breathtaking views and listening to the gentle waves crashing against the shore. El Tamarindo Beach is also known for its outstanding surfing conditions. With consistent waves and favorable wind conditions, it attracts experienced surfers from around the world. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find waves suitable for all skill levels. There are several surf schools and rental shops in the area that cater to surfers of all abilities. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in the surrounding area of El Tamarindo Beach. The nearby Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of protected marine and terrestrial wildlife species. Visitors can take a boat tour or go kayaking to explore the mangroves and spot birds, sea turtles, and even crocodiles. For those seeking relaxation, El Tamarindo Beach offers comfortable accommodation options in the form of beachfront resorts and eco-lodges. These establishments provide a laid-back atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and recharge amidst the natural splendor of the area. In terms of amenities, El Tamarindo Beach has several restaurants and food stalls serving delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood. Visitors can indulge in traditional Salvadoran dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the beach. Overall, El Tamarindo Beach is a top attraction in La Unión, El Salvador, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventurous activities, and a tranquil environment. It is a must-visit destination for beachgoers, surfers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Mirador de las Flores - Top attractions in La Unión -9

Mirador de las Flores is one of the top attractions in La Unión, El Salvador. This picturesque hilltop viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Located just a short drive from La Unión, Mirador de las Flores provides visitors with a stunning vantage point to admire the region's natural beauty. Lush greenery, rolling hills, and the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Fonseca create a mesmerizing scene that is perfect for capturing memorable photos. In addition to its awe-inspiring views, Mirador de las Flores also offers various facilities to enhance visitors' experience. There is a spacious observation deck equipped with ample seating, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the stunning vistas. The site also features picnic areas and walking trails, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls amidst the peaceful surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a unique blend of tranquility and adventure at Mirador de las Flores. Many tourists pack a picnic and spend a leisurely afternoon here, savoring the beauty of the landscape while enjoying a delicious meal. Those seeking a bit more excitement can explore the surrounding trails, which lead to hidden viewpoints and offer up-close encounters with the local flora and fauna. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Mirador de las Flores in La Unión, El Salvador, is an absolute must-visit destination. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty that this top attraction has to offer.

La Union Rail Museum - Top attractions in La Unión -10

The La Union Rail Museum in La Unión, El Salvador, is one of the top attractions in the region. Located in the historically significant city, the museum offers visitors a unique insight into the railroad history of El Salvador. The museum showcases a collection of vintage locomotives, train cars, and artifacts that date back to the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the well-preserved exhibits and learn about the importance of the railway system in the country's development. One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to step inside a beautifully restored passenger train car and experience what travel was like during that era. The knowledgeable staff is always available to provide information and answer any questions visitors may have. In addition to the fascinating exhibits, the museum also offers guided tours that provide a more in-depth understanding of the railway's impact on the local economy and culture. The location of the museum is also worth mentioning, as it is situated in a scenic area with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds and take in the natural beauty of the region. Overall, the La Union Rail Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and train enthusiasts. It offers a captivating experience that combines education and entertainment, making it a perfect destination for families, solo travelers, and tour groups alike. Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you! We are always happy to improve and we hope you have appreciated our list of the top 10 places to visit at La Unión :)

Here you can find a list of destinations in El Salvador , each with a link to the page with detailed description about their top 10 tourist attractions: San Salvador: top 10 attractions Santa Ana: top 10 attractions La Libertad: top 10 attractions Sonsonate: top 10 attractions Ahuachapán: top 10 attractions Chalatenango: top 10 attractions Cojutepeque: top 10 attractions La Unión: top 10 attractions San Miguel: top 10 attractions Usulután: top 10 attractions Zacatecoluca: top 10 attractions San Vicente: top 10 attractions Suchitoto: top 10 attractions La Palma: top 10 attractions San Francisco Gotera: top 10 attractions San Rafael Oriente: top 10 attractions Cacaopera: top 10 attractions San Marcos: top 10 attractions Intipucá: top 10 attractions Metapán: top 10 attractions

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Don't just wonder, wander too. (travel destinations), top things to do in la union (lakbay norte 9).

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Philippine Travel Guides: Exploring Things to Do in La Union

On its 9 th edition of bringing travel writers from print and online to a guided tour of Luzon, this year’s Lakbay Norte 9 journeyed to La Union and Pangasinan to highlight must-see places in the two provinces. Lakbay Norte is an annual familiarity tour organized by the North Philippines Visitors Bureau in partnership with NLEX and Victory Liner, as a way of encouraging travelers to explore deeper into Northern Luzon. And for the first part of my travel log, join me as we explore the top things to do in La Union. 

Kicking off our 5-day journey was a visit at the NLEX command center in Balintawak Toll Plaza. Here, we were shown their state-of-the-art technology like their Traffic Control System. A centralized room of their CCTVs observing all the goings-on along the almost 100 km stretch of NLEX. These include accidents, traffic violations and road conditions.

We then had the chance to be part of the real action at the actual toll plazas. Afterwards, we proceeded to the surfing town of La Union. Where we discovered other things to do in La Union. Here’s a quick rundown of all the places we visited during #LakbayNorte9 in the province of La Union. 

Have an Ilocano Lunch at Wel-Kambak Resto & Grill (Sto. Tomas)

After a few hours of traveling and dozing off in the bus, we were on our first stop for things to do in La Union. LUNCH! We dropped by a quaint place along the national road called Wel-Kambak Resto & Grill in Sto. Tomas, La Union.

Here, I had my first taste of an Ilocano delicacy — Kinigtot . A dish originating from Pangasinan composed of goat or beef stew with innards simmered in bile (bitter) juice and spices. It is a variety of the Ilocano dish “ Papaitan “. Also part of our appetizing feast were all-time favorites pinakbet , grilled catfish and a huge bowl of bulalo with juicy bone marrow. 

Visit the Basilica of our Lady of Charity (Agoo)

Better known as Agoo Basilica, this church is known for its Mexican-Baroque architectural design. Characterized by a rosette stained glass window on the center of the Basilica’s facade. There are also statues of Saint Paul and Peter near the main door adorned with carved Hebrew scripts of the Ten Commandments. The Agoo Basilica was originally built by Franciscan Friars in 1578. It has since undergone numerous re-construction due to a number of natural calamities. With the last one occurring during the 1990 Luzon earthquake. 

Still, the current Basilica still evokes a century-old heritage look thanks to its architecture. The interior of the church is also impressive. Thanks to the reredos of the altar that has eight wooden panels of intricately carved flowery design, the hanging chandeliers, and the pipe organ made of mahogany. A definite must in the top things to do in La Union!

Travel hint: there is an underground crypt at the church. Just kindly ask the caretakers to take you there when you visit. A lot of the tombs are owned by prominent personalities of the town and La Union. A special collection of relics from saints can also be found in the crypt.

Explore The Heritage Town of Agoo

La Union isn’t just about the surfing town of San Juan, as it is where a number of old towns are also located. The oldest of which is Agoo.

Although the town of Agoo was founded at almost the same decade the Spanish arrived on the island of Luzon, Agoo’s history started even before that. Before the Spanish came, Agoo natives already set up a trading route with Chinese merchants as evidenced by the items excavated near Agoo Basilica comprising of pottery and porcelain from China. 

Today, remnants of Agoo’s storied past can still be seen around town. Colonial houses such as Jose Aspiras ancestral home and the Lloren-Mabutas Parental House , the Museo de Iloko —where much of the excavated items before the Spanish came, are displayed, Eagle of the North Park, Plaza de la Virgen .

Other nature attractions in Agoo includes: Agoo beach, Agoo-Damortis Protected Landscape and Seascape and the San Antonio Eco-Mountain Trail.

Travel hint : The town celebrates the Dinengdeng Festival every summer—usually in April, in honor of the fish-based dish of the same name considered as the town’s heritage dish.

Go Glamping at Agoo Eco-Fun Farm

Situated in the northern part of the Agoo-Damortis Protected Landscape and Seascape, Agoo Eco-Fun Farm features a spectacular view of the surrounding nature. This is a favorite spot of the locals to go on weekend picnics. As well as couples shooting their pre-nuptial pictorials. Dotted with towering pine trees, it’s a place I instantly fell in love with. As I was telling my Lakbay Norte mates, “ If we don’t have other places to go, can I just remain here and pitch a tent ?” 

To cap it all, there’s even a lake where you can catch the magnificent sunset and a long stilt walkway that leads to the beach. A perfect destination indeed for every nature lover. A place that deserves a spot in the top things to do in La Union. Will definitely be back for my IG-worthy glamping soon!

Grape Picking at Lomboy Grape Farm (Bauang)

Our fifth stop of things to do in La Union took us to Lomboy Grape Farm. Said to be the first grape farm in the Philippines, Lomboy Grape Farm was first established in 1972. Located in the farmlands of Bauang, visitors here can get a sense of how it’s like to pick grapes and feel like a vineyard owner at the same time. 

You wonder why a grape farm exists in a sunny and warm place such as La Union? Well, it is because the common notion that grapes only grow in places with cool weather is incorrect. Grapes can also grow in a warm environment like in La Union. Thanks to its founder Avelino Lomboy nicknamed as “ Philippines king of Grapes “, Filipinos now know that grapes can be cultivated and harvested in our country. 

Travel hint : The best time for grape-picking is from last week of March until May.  

Sip Wine at Uvas Cafe

Uvas Cafe is located inside Lomboy Grape Farm. Here, we enjoyed tasting six varieties of the wine they produced in the farm. My favorite was the best guapple which has a sweet and fruity taste. 

Travel hint : Best to pair their wine with the cold cuts items they serve in the cafe.

Make a Wish at Ma-Cho Temple (Taoist Temple)

I LSS’ed on the Village People’s hit song “ Macho Man” after I heard that our next destination would be a place called Macho Temple . It turns out it’s actually called Ma-Cho Temple , a Taoist place of worship dedicated to Mazu—a Chinese sea goddess. Located in San Fernando, La Union, the temple stands 7-story high and was built in 1975. The interior reminds me of similar temples I visited in Taiwan and China. 

I loved how the temple is adorned with carved lions and dragons on woods and stones. It also had statues of animals and a meditation room where one can easily achieve a Zen-state of mind.

Inside, we performed a simple prayer ritual where we were asked to bow three times, draw an odd number incense sticks (usually three), ask a question, and throw 2 “rocks” to get an answer. It’s said that if both rocks are turned the same way (face up or down) then it’s a no. And if they land opposite sides (one up, one down), then it’s a yes! Don’t worry if on the first go the answer is a no, then you can still give it a second go. Just change your question. I did just that and true enough, I got a YES! Hehe. 

Learn about the Turtles at SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery 

When in the province, one of things to do in La Union is visit the SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery. The shores of La Union are known hatching places of sea turtles especially during the months from September to March. But because of tourism development, sea turtles have lost some of their hatching ground. Good thing, Project Curma was established in 2009 with the help of the SIFCare (Science of Identity Foundation) . Today, CURMA Hatchery has successfully hatched and released more than 10,000 sea turtles to the sea since it started operation in San Juan, La Union.

If you’re lucky enough, you get to see the hatching station where the eggs of sea turtles are kept until they hatched. There weren’t any around so a nice talk and simple snacks took place instead. We learned that they train former poachers of sea turtles to become beach patrols who now search for sea turtle eggs in the shores of San Juan so they can take it to the Hatchery for proper incubation. 

Travel hint: You can join Turtle Power movement by volunteering at the SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery to become beach patrols and join in the ocean cleanup activities. 

Have Dinner by the Beach at Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa 

Although we didn’t stay here for the night, we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner at Kahuna. Most especially because we met our hosts from the local LGU and provincial tourism office.

We capped off our day of educational exploration and wonderful discoveries with a bonfire with smores, hotdogs, beers and lively conversation. It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know more about my other Lakbay Norte travel mates—most of whom I met for the first time like Nina Fuentes, a travel blogging pioneer who writes for her own travel blog Just Wandering . 

Stay for the Night at Sebay Surf Central

We ended our fruitful day of exploration with a sound sleep at our comfortable rooms at Sebay Surf Central. It’s actually one of the earliest resorts established in San Juan, La Union (now on their 25th year). Sebay Resort has become one of the top accommodations of choice in La Union.

Thanks to its homey design incorporating classic Filipino architecture and a touch of post-modern touches. It is a beachfront resort, that’s why upon waking up next morning, the first thing I did was to head straight to the restaurant and had breakfast while people watching and staring at the sea.

Surfing Lessons at Sebay Surf Central

Day 2 started quite early and for a good reason: Surfing Lessons! If you are like me—a newbie at the sport of surfing—then San Juan, La Union is the perfect place for you to learn to surf. Sadly, I did not feel I was in good condition to surf that morning so I opted to just observe my co-bloggers ride the swells of La Union.

I loved how everyone was so energetic all throughout the hour-long surfing session. That even though they fell from their surfboards more times that one can count, everyone was all smiles. And was able to pull off finishing a “ long-ride” a few times. With more practice and visit to San Juan, La Union who knows I too might become a surfer girl soon. 

Among everyone, I think Sandy of TheLostJuan and Marco Dennis of Pinoy Traveler were the ones who were able to surf best. Most probably because of their prior experience in surfing. 

Go Off-The-Grid at Lotus Valley Farm

I so love our experience in Lotus Farm that I am inspired to write a separate article about it (watch out for it soon). Despite the farm being located off-the-grid from the other attractions in La Union (which I love), it is definitely one of the top things to do in La Union because of the sheer number of flora and faunas that the farm has. 

The owner explained to us that there are 77 species of trees in the farm and more wildlife species are starting to propagate because of the organic environment of the farm. Like the dozens of migratory bird species seen all over the farm.

We then spent half an hour walking through the farm, exploring the many fresh vegetation and beautiful plants around. And it’s precisely because of all the greens that makes Lotus Valley Farm an ideal stop in La Union – the climate is at least 4-5 degrees colder than the rest of the province.

After an informative talk about plant-based diet, we then had a relaxing Acudetox and sound meditation session with SIFCare before finally having a surprisingly tummy-filling vegetarian dinner. 

And since the farm is located away from civilization, our group ended up bonding over cards under the canopy of nighttime stars. The place might be completely off grid but it was totally worth it. And definitely deserves to be included in your top things to do in La Union! 

Read more on Wellness of Lotus Farm in La Union

Eat halo-halo at ciano umok art gallery (bauang).

Day 3. Our call time was at 6:30 AM so I hurriedly braved the cold to wash up and get ready for a long day ahead. Our last and final stop in the things to do in La Union took us to Ciano Umok Art Gallery. An old ancestral house turned into a gallery where once can appreciate art while tasting one of the best halo-halos in La Union.  

Ciano Umok is located at Brgy. Palugsi, Bauang, La Union. The place is a little uphill and the road is quite narrow so best to take an SUV or park in the plaza and hire a tricycle instead.Truly a wonderful way of ending the La Union leg of our #LakbayNorte9 journey. 

Read more about Where to Eat in La Union

One thought on “ Top Things to Do in La Union (Lakbay Norte 9) ”

What a great blog! You just inspired me. I am adding La Union to my list of places to visit someday. I want to learn how to surf.

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10 BEST La Union Beach Resorts: Beachfront, Near Surfing, With Pool

10. Bali Hai Beach Resort

9. isla bonita beach resort, 8. villas buenavista, 7. sunset bay beach resort, 6. san juan surf resort, 5. lafaayette luxury suites resort, 4. awesome hotel and resort.

• 3. Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point

2. Aureo Resort La Union

1. kahuna beach resort and spa.

Photos by Villas Buenavista and Kahuna Resort and Spa

La Union, a popular surfing destination just 219 KM away from the Philippine capital Manila, is known for its natural attractions, historic sites, delicious food, and water sports activities, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines . It is one of the Philippines' top surfing destinations and is home to some of the pristine beaches near Manila , such as Urbiztondo Beach. This proximity to the capital makes it one of the favorite Luzon tourist spots for many travelers.

To get to La Union via public transportation, you can ride a bus bound for San Fernando. From there, ride a jeepney or tricycle bound for San Juan Beach or Urbiztondo Beach. You can also rent a car or book a transfer, depending on your budget and the car/van rental availability.

• Read our article on where to eat in La Union

If you’re searching for the best place to stay in La Union or planning a getaway to beach resorts near Manila , look no further, as there are numerous La Union hotels and beach resorts to choose from. Check our list below to know the top 10 best resorts in La Union for your beach and surfing vacation.

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, 2-day scenic ilocos norte & historic vigan shared tour package from manila.

Photo by Bali Hai Beach Resort

Bali Hai Beach Resort in Bauang is one of the beach resorts in La Union that give their guests a view of the West Philippine Sea. This property offers Bali-style amenities and facilities with ample parking space while only being 1km away from Bauang Beach.

The air-conditioned rooms in Bali Hai Beach Resort are fully equipped with amenities such as WiFi access, a refrigerator, en suite bathrooms complete with toiletries, a TV with cable channels, and a balcony or terrace.

It is also one of the La Union resorts with a pool. Other resort facilities include a garden, a bar and restaurant, laundry service, a souvenir shop, and function rooms. Bali Hai Beach Resort also has a golf course, which is within 3 KM of the property.

Photo by Isla Bonita Beach Resort

One of the best San Juan, La Union beach resorts, Isla Bonita Beach Resort , is located near a surfing spot. This Spanish-styled property offers 14 rooms with free WiFi access, family-friendly amenities and facilities, free parking, and quality service.

The air-conditioned rooms in the resort are all equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a closet, a coffee and tea maker, chairs and tables, a balcony, and an en suite bathroom. Some of the rooms include an exclusive swimming pool with a large garden area.

Guests at the Isla Bonita Beach Resort will have access to multiple facilities as it is one of the La Union beach resorts with swimming pools, a music bar and restaurant, a function area with games, a pavilion, luggage storage, and washing and ironing services. If you want to be pampered, the resort also offers massage and manicure and pedicure services for a fee.

Photo by Villas Buenavista

Villas Buenavista is a family-friendly accommodation in San Juan, La Union. This property has a private beach area, and its central location makes it easier for guests to go to the nearby San Fernando Dry Market, Ma-Cho Temple, and other La Union tourist spots .

The hotel offers 30 soundproof rooms with a wardrobe and clothes rack, a flat-screen TV, a coffee and tea maker, a desk, an in-room safe, an en suite bathroom with shower and toiletries, and a terrace. The resort also provides daily housekeeping and laundry services.

Guests will have access to the resort’s facilities, which include beach cabanas, surfing and boogie boards, an outdoor pool, a bar and restaurant, a gift and souvenir shop, and a business center. Aside from its restaurant, the resort also has a picnic area where guests can relax.

Photo by Sunset Bay Beach Resort

Sunset Bay Beach Resort is one of the San Fernando, La Union beach hotels. It is famous for its sunset views overlooking the South China Sea and is close to San Fernando Market, which is only 4km away.

The air-conditioned rooms in Sunset Bay Beach Resort are all equipped with free WiFi access, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee and tea maker, chairs and tables, a wardrobe and clothes rack, and an en suite bathroom with shower and toiletries. 

One of the good points of this resort is they offer daily housekeeping and laundry services. Guests will have access to the resort’s infinity pool, bar and restaurant, and their manicured garden is directly connected to the beach.

Photo by San Juan Surf Resort

San Juan Surf Resort remains one of the top modern accommodations in San Juan, La Union. Its convenient access to Urbiztondo Beach makes it easier for guests to catch the waves.

This property offers 43 spacious guest rooms that are fully equipped with amenities such as free WiFi access, a flat-screen TV, an in-house safe, and an en-suite bathroom with shower and toiletries. They also offer daily housekeeping and laundry services.

Aside from its amenities which include a bar and restaurant, a spa, a café, and a surf shop, the resort houses San Juan Surf School, one of the best surfing camps in the Philippines which is open to beginners and experienced surfers.

Photo by Lafaayette Luxury Suites Resort

Lafaayette Luxury Suites Resort is located on the coastline of Bauang, a serene location away from the bustling surfing spots in La Union, which is perfect for relaxing vacations. This Balinese-style modern accommodation is also one of the popular pet-friendly resorts in La Union.

The 12 rooms are all equipped with a flat-screen TV, WiFi access, an in-house safe, tables and chairs, a coffee and tea maker, a minibar, a telephone, and an en suite bathroom with a  hot and cold shower and toiletries.

Aside from Sebastian’s Asian Fusion, their on-site restaurant, which serves Asian cuisine, and their in-house café called Matahari Cafe, guests will have access to other facilities such as an infinity pool, a garden, conference facilities, and jet ski and banana boat facilities. 

Photo by Awesome Hotel and Resort

One of the top-rated accommodations in San Juan, La Union is Awesome Hotel and Resort. This property offers modern facilities and shuttle services to San Fernando and San Juan for free and is adjacent to La Union’s top surfing spot, San Juan Beach.

This hotel in La Union near the beach has 25 spacious air-conditioned rooms, each having a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, WiFi access, a coffee and tea maker, a ceiling fan, a minibar, a telephone, an in-house safe, an en suite bathroom with shower and toiletries, and an ironing board. Some rooms have a patio area with a beach view. They also have daily housekeeping, laundry, and room service.

Guests will have 24-hour access to the front desk and other facilities like an outdoor pool, a kids pool, gardens, sunbeds, a pool bar, a motorized water sports area, function rooms, indoor games for children and adults, a massage room, and an in-house restaurant serving Asian fusion, Japanese, Filipino, and Western cuisine.

3. Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point

Photo by Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point

Thunderbird Resorts - Poro Point is a popular resort in San Fernando, La Union. Often dubbed as the Santorini of Asia, it is a Mediterranean-inspired property perched on a cliff with a view of the West Philippine Sea and San Fernando Bay. It is 7.4km away from Bauang Beach and 9.3km from San Juan Beach.

• See other  Santorini-inspired resorts in the Philippines

The resort offers 64 spacious rooms with a private balcony, a flat-screen TV, WiFi access, a coffee and tea maker, an in-room safety box, a mini refrigerator, an iPod dock, and an en suite bathroom with free toiletries. The resort also offers daily housekeeping for all guests.

Guests will have access to multiple facilities as well, including the casino, a full-service spa, bars and restaurants, a fitness and wellness center, volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts, a chapel, a kids and teenagers club, art facilities, golf facilities, a clubhouse, and function rooms.

Have a sumptuous feast at their 8 bars and restaurants: Olives Restaurant, All American Diner, Pianosa Deli Shop, Helios Pool Bar, Patio Santorini Bar & Lounge, The Cliffs Restobar, Ivy Bar & Lounge, and Mian Bar.

Photo by Aureo Resort La Union

Aureo Resort , a modern accommodation in San Fernando, La Union, is known for its beachfront location and stylish facilities. This La Union beach resort for big groups has private beachfront access overlooking the West Philippine Sea with a stunning sunset.

This beachfront resort in La Union is home to 116 tropical-themed luxury rooms and 58 beachfront villas, all equipped with a private balcony, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, WiFi access, a coffee & tea maker, a mini refrigerator, a work desk, an en suite bathroom with hot and cold water, an in-room safe, and in-room dining services.

Similar to other beachfront hotels in La Union, some of their luxurious on-site facilities include beachfront access, an indoor and outdoor pool, a garden, a bar and restaurant, a gift and souvenir shop, and laundry service. The resort also offers complimentary WiFi all over the property. Guests will have a lot of food choices at The Salt + Sea and The Coast Bar & Restaurant, two of Aureo’s exquisite dining options.

See our popular Resorts Near Manila Packages

Batangas canyon cove day pass with beach & main pool access, aureo hotel la union overnight package with breakfast, comfortable 3-day bataan package at 3-star the oriental hotel mariveles with daily breakfast.

Photo by Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa

Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa is located in San Juan, La Union, the surfing capital of the Northern Philippines. Aside from its top-notch amenities and facilities, this Balinese-style resort is popular for its sunset views and convenient location. It is only 350m away from San Juan Beach and is one of the San Juan, La Union beachfront hotels.

The resort and spa offers 40 Balinese-inspired rooms overlooking the sea and sunset. Aside from the impressive interiors, each air-conditioned room has a free Wi-Fi connection (fiber internet), large flat-screen TV, a coffee and tea maker, a mini-bar, an en suite bathroom with a hot and cold shower, a working table, and a garden sitting area.

Daily housekeeping and laundry services are also provided by the resort. Some of the top facilities in the resort and spa include a bar and restaurant, water sports and other recreational activities, function rooms, a convenience store, a gift and souvenir shop, and a surf shop. It is also one of the San Juan, La Union beach resorts with pools.

There is also free WiFi in all areas. Dine in at Kahuna Restaurant and choose from various selections of Asian and International cuisine

Plan Your Getaway to La Union Resorts

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a group of friends, or as a family and are looking for where to stay in La Union, these resorts offer a complete experience with their numerous facilities and amenities, quality service, great food, and close proximity to surfing spots and some of the best beaches in the Philippines . 

Ride the waves in La Union with comfort and security. Use this list to find the ideal resort as your home base for La Union surfing and exploring other La Union tourist spots . 

When traveling around the Philippines, make sure to book your tours and Philippine vacation packages , including vacation packages for couples , with a reputable travel booking website for a hassle-free experience! Booking a hotel in the Philippines  or other travel promos is also stress-free when you transact with a trusted website.

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The 50 best tourist attractions in the u.s..

See which American landmarks are worthy of your bucket list.

(Getty Images) |

From national parks to iconic symbols of freedom and democracy, these popular and highly regarded U.S. tourist attractions cannot be missed.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Huntsville, Alabama

Denali National Park and Preserve: Alaska

Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona

Hot Springs National Park: Arkansas

Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco, California

Pikes Peak: Cascade, Colorado

(Courtesy of Mystic Aquarium) |

Mystic Aquarium: Mystic, Connecticut

DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum: Fenwick Island, Delaware

(Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort) |

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida

(Courtesy of Coca Cola) |

World of Coca-Cola: Atlanta, Georgia

Road to Hana: Hana, Maui, Hawaii

(Courtesy of Idaho Tourism) |

Kirkham Hot Springs: Lowman, Idaho

Chicago River: Chicago, Illinois

Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Indianapolis, Indiana

The Field of Dreams: Dyersville, Iowa

(Courtesy of Oz Museum) |

Oz Museum: Wamego, Kansas

Kentucky Horse Park: Lexington, Kentucky

French Quarter: New Orleans, Louisiana

Acadia National Park: Bar Harbor, Maine

National Aquarium: Baltimore, Maryland

Freedom Trail: Boston, Massachusetts

Mackinac Island: Michigan

(Courtesy of Mall of America) |

Mall of America: Bloomington, Minnesota

(Courtesy of Elvis Presley Birthplace) |

Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum: Tupelo, Mississippi

Gateway Arch: St. Louis, Missouri

Glacier National Park: West Glacier, Montana

Chimney Rock National Historic Site: Bayard, Nebraska

Las Vegas Strip: Las Vegas, Nevada

Mount Washington Cog Railway: Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Cape May: New Jersey

White Sands National Park: Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico

Statue of Liberty: New York City, New York

Wright Brothers National Memorial: Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: North Dakota

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Cleveland, Ohio

(Courtesy of First Americans Museum) |

First Americans Museum: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Mount Hood: Oregon

Liberty Bell: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Breakers: Newport, Rhode Island

Fort Sumter National Monument: Charleston, South Carolina

Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Keystone, South Dakota

(Courtesy of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum) |

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Nashville, Tennessee

The Alamo: San Antonio, Texas

Zion National Park: Utah

(Courtesy of Smugglers' Notch Resort) |

Smugglers' Notch Resort: Jeffersonville, Vermont

Colonial Williamsburg: Williamsburg, Virginia

Space Needle: Seattle, Washington

White House and the National Mall: Washington, D.C.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Lambeau Field: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming

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Expect the cost of your airfare to continue to rise, an aviation trade group and industry heads warn

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The cost of your next flight is likely to go up.

That’s the word from the International Air Transport Association, which held its annual meeting Monday in Dubai, home to the long-haul carrier Emirates.

While carriers recover from the groundings worldwide from the coronavirus pandemic, industry leaders told journalists that there are several costs likely to push those ticket prices ever higher.

Part of that comes from worldwide inflation, an ongoing problem since the pandemic started. Jet fuel costs, roughly a third of all airline expenses, remain high. Meanwhile, a global push for the aviation industry to decarbonize has more carriers fighting for the little amount of so-called sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, available in the market.

“The airlines will continue to do everything they can to keep costs in control as much as possible for the benefit of consumers,” said Willie Walsh, the director-general of the the International Air Transport Association, an industry-trade group. “But I think it’s unrealistic to expect that airlines can continue to absorb all of the costs. ... It’s not something we like to do, but it’s something we have to do.”

Also pressuring the industry is a pandemic hangover in aircraft production as well, they say. Carriers now keep older planes that burn more fuel flying longer. There also aren’t enough new aircraft to expand routes and increase supply to bring down overall prices.

That warning comes as the IATA estimates globally, airline revenue will reach nearly $1 trillion in 2024, a record high. There will be 4.96 billion travelers on airplanes this year, with total expenses for carriers reaching $936 billion — another record high.

But industry profits also are expected to be nearly $60 billion this year.

In particular, Emirates, a main driver for Dubai’s economy, saw record profits of $4.7 billion in 2023 off revenues of $33 billion.

The Emirates’ results track with those for its base, Dubai International Airport . The world’s busiest airport for international travelers had 86.9 million passengers last year, surpassing numbers for 2019 just before the coronavirus pandemic grounded global aviation.

The airport now plans to move to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches in the next 10 years in a project worth nearly $35 billion .

Tim Clark, the airline’s president, obliquely acknowledged that Monday by saying that he didn’t want people to “get boxes of tissues out and play the violins” when warning that the industry’s profit margins sit in the low single digits. However, he contended that as airlines have grown larger and carriers consolidated, cost savings have quietly been passed onto consumers now able to book flights across the world.

“It is quite amazing that ticket prices are where they are today,” Clark said. “I think the value-for-money proposition that the consumers have had the benefit from for many decades is something that is one of those hidden bits of the narrative.”

Yvonne Manzi Makolo, the CEO of RwandAir, also highlighted the taxes and fees imposed on carriers by the countries they operate in. She specifically cited those paid by carriers flying out of African nations as “already ridiculous.”

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