When it comes to quick getaways, La Union is the perfect choice for barkadas and families alike. This magnificent place in the Ilocos region has a wide range of accommodations to fit your budget, is easily accessible from Manila, and a variety of restaurants you can choose from.
La Union is quite famous for its beaches. Those beaches found in San Fernando, San Juan, and Bauang are among the most favorite. Out of the three towns, San Juan seems to be the most preferred travel destination for surfing enthusiasts. Going to San Juan, La Union is pretty much easy if you’re coming from Manila, Baguio, or other close provinces. In fact, there are a number of bus trips in Northern Luzon that can pass through the city. San Juan is becoming the surfing capital in La Union. Most people usually come to La Union to enjoy the beach and the waves, but that’s not the only thing you can do here. For those planning a trip to La Union, here are a few fun and unique activities that you can do.
#1 Learn How to Surf
Being the surfing capital, La Union attracts not just local surfers in the area, but even those coming from the international surfing community. Due to its popularity, San Juan holds the annual Surfing Break where local and foreign tourists take part in this joyful event. But you don’t have to be a professional surfer to enjoy the waves. La Union’s beaches have waves that are suitable for beginner, intermediate, and advanced surfers alike. Many surf instructors can be found in the area during two surfing seasons from July to October and November to March.
#2 Stroll Along Luna Pebble Beach
The best beaches are not always those with fine sand. Luna’s pebble beach has its own unique charms. The town of Luna located in La Union has been considered as “the pebble capital of the North” because of its unique landscape and its thriving pebble attractions. The area is facing the West Philippine Sea, has a unique landscape, and various colors of pebbles. While you’re there, you can also stop by in Bahay na Bato, a rest house built from stone and rocks, and the Baluarte Watch Tower.
#3 Take a Tour at the Art Gallery
Locally known as “Silid ti Adal Ken Laing ti La Union Gallery”, the Culture and Arts Gallery houses a number of local artist artworks and showcases their talents as well as the province’s rich artistic culture. Explore the numerous artworks displayed in the area. It carries the work of its local artists as well as some selected art from Baguio and Pangasinan. With its numerous projects and initiatives, the Culture and Art Gallery of La Union aims to be the primary art hub of the Ilocos region. Feel free to take photos and learn a thing or two about each work of art. Bring out the inner artist in you!
#4 Have a Staycation
Who says you have to go out to experience La Union? Why not just chill out in a resort of your choice? Staying inside your hotel room might be the last thing you would do after a tiring day outside. For a luxurious staycation, go for Kahuna Beach Resort, which has their very own private swimming pool overlooking the ocean. If you’re traveling on a fixed budget, there are various hostels to choose from. Hostels usually have areas like board games that you’ll definitely enjoy. You’ll be happy to laze around in your room or just hang around all day with your friends and family enjoying the view.
#5 Go on a Culinary Adventure
For those who want to experience food trip in La Union, you won’t be disappointed. The province has a wide array of culinary wonders, from the traditional Ilocano dishes with a twist to usual favorites. Before reaching the popular town of San Juan, have a friendly meal in Natalna Grille in San Fernando. You may choose to dine inside of the charming restaurant or enjoy the cool breeze outside looking out into the beach. There’s also bars and restaurants nearby that have become a favorite among surfers. Aside from the local and imported beers, they also serve a wide selection of cocktail drinks.
#6 Watch the Sunset
Dreamed of having a sunset viewing along the beach? For some people, this might not count as an actual thing to do, but the sunsets in La Union are pretty dramatic. La Union’s coastline is really famous for its fantastic sunset views including Urbiztondo Beach. Go to the rocky part on the south side of the beach to see the breathtaking views. Puerto de San Juan also offers a magnificent view of the West Philippine Sea. Grab a beer or two, a blanket and just sit on the shore and just watch as the colors fade away into the darkness.