La Union which is the surfing capital of the north, is a name which indicates the union of towns from different provinces, has had an enduring history since it was founded by the Spaniards.

Governor General Claveria signed the proposal to unite the Pangasinan-Ilocos-Cordillera areas into a new province called La Union as a solution for a more efficient political-civil administration in the area. On March 2, 1850, Governor General Antonio Maria Blanco signed the Superior Decreto that founded La Union – the 34th province in the Philippines since the founding of Cebu in 1565. On April 18, 1854, the province was formally created by a Royal Decree issued by Queen Isabela of Spain. The composition of La Union were nine towns of Pangasinan, three of Ilocos Sur, and villages of the Eastern Pais del Igorotes in the Cordilleras.

How to get there:

Going to San Juan is so easy as it’s just one ride away from Manila. Travel time could take up to 6 to 7 hours depending on the traffic. The travel period in San Juan will be lessened if you will pass through TPLEX or the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway. Partas Transportation Company Incorporated that is located in Cubao, Quezon City is one of the main buses that pass through Urbiztondo in San Juan La Union. You can even ask the conductor of the said bus to drop you off at the exact location of the resort or accommodation you’re going into.

What to do:

SURFING

One of the main reasons why people go here is to surf. La Union has waves that can reach 8 to 10ft on a good swell. The best month to go here is from May to March as the good waves last up to 10 months. Waves become consistent in the month of October until March that will peak in December and January and it attract tourist and surfers around the world. Renting a surfboard will cost you PHP 300 for an hour and if you are a beginner, there are a lot of surfing instructor in San Juan that you will also pay for the same price and it will be PHP 300 for the whole package. The surfing instructors will really teach you the basics so that beginners can surf even if it’s their first time.

WATCHING THE SUNSET

The place San Juan La Union is located in the east part of the Philippines and is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take a photo or a video as you will be mesmerized by the sunset.

VISIT THE GRAPE FARM

La Union’s grape farm is believed to be started started by Avelino Lomboy who owns Lomboy Grape Farm.  He started planting in the 70’s as a hobby and since then, it has grown into a large business.  He shared his knowledge in viticulture to other families  in Bauang and eventually, family-owned grape farms mushroomed in La Union

 

HIKE IN TANGADAN FALLS

Situated in the town of San Gabriel, Tangadan Falls is one of at least ten waterfalls in the town. It is a two-tier cascade along Baroro River with cold water emanating from the hinterland of the province adjacent to the Cordillera Mountain Range.

VISIT THE KAMAY NA BATO

Kamay na Bato (Stone Hand) Art Gallery is located in Brgy. Nalvo Norte, just a few minutes drive from Baluarte Watch Tower in Brgy. Victoria. Unlike Baluarte which can be experienced free of charge, this art gallery has an entrance fee / environmental fee of Php20/head. A Korean sculptor and painter, Mr. Bong Kim, married to a Filipina and is evidently fascinated by Filipino culture through his art, is the man behind the art gallery. You will find here faces and people carved or painted in stone. 

VISIT THE BALUARTE - WATCH TOWER

The 400-year-old watchtower, known to residents and tourists in the coastal town of Luna in La Union province as “Baluarte”.
Locally called as "Baluarte," the watchtower in Barangay Victoria was built during the Spanish period as a solution to the frequent ransacking of Japanese, Chinese, and Moro pirates in the coastal towns of La Union.

VISIT THE MACHO TEMPLE

The Ma-Cho Temple is a Toist temple that was dedicated to the sea goddess, Mazu. According to the legend, Mazu was a girl with the name Lin Mo who only lived until she was twenty-eight years old.It is said that Lin Mo was compassionate and could perform miracles with her powers. She died at such an early age because she sacrificed her life to save those who were out on the rough waters of the sea.

Where to Stay:

THUNDER BIRD RESORT

Dubbed as the Santorini of Asia, Thunderbird Resorts & Casinos -Poro Point is a dream destination of its own. Experience Greece's world-renowned resort town without needing to leave our local shores, with the ever-famous Santorini dome as the resort's primary landmark.

CAMP AVENUE

Camp Avenue is one of the beach outlets in the town not only to enjoy the waves but also to experience a camping break along the beach. The place will welcome you with a laid-back and chill very summer vibe. The trees, the hammocks, and everything that associates your memories with your perfect summer memento is here.

KAHUNA BEACH AND RESORT

Situated in the heart of the most privileged surf destination in the Philippines, San Juan, La Union, Kahuna is the premier resort in the area. Including 40 boutique Balinese-inspired cottages,'Ocean Villas' and 'Rest Houses’ that peer out directly into the beach, where you can relax in one of the 3 swimming pools with your favorite cocktail. The calming sounds of rolling waves, beautiful sunset and great ambiance are available for our guest to bask in. Its charming accommodations, bar, restaurant and pools all face an ocean cove and wide sandy beach. The gently sloping beach allows for the perfect breaking waves for surfers of all abilities. 

AUREO BEACH RESORT

Aureo Beach Resort in San Fernando La Union may not give you the famous wave of La Union beaches but it will surely bring you a serene and homey experience. The newly built beach resort could be your escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life. But for most of you who have already been in La Union, Aureo Beach Resort could definitely be a surprise.