More about hotels in La Union
About La Union accommodation
Nicknamed "Elyu" by the surfers and cafe-hoppers who keep coming back, La Union is the laid-back stretch of the Ilocos coast where a morning surf lesson rolls straight into an arvo spent hopping between beachside cafes. It's an easy long weekend from Manila, and whether you're chasing a wave, a flat white, or just a hammock with an ocean view, there's a stay here to match the mood.
Where should you stay in La Union?
La Union stretches along the coast, and where you base yourself shapes the kind of trip you'll have.
- San Juan is the surf hub and the heart of "Elyu" itself, packed with surf camps, hostels, and the cafe strip along the beach road.
- San Fernando City is the provincial capital, handy for Poro Point, the airport, and a slightly quieter, more local base.
- Bacnotan, just north of San Juan, suits travellers after a mellower beach scene with fewer crowds.
- Bauang, south towards the Manila side, offers longer-stay resorts right on the sand.
How much is La Union accommodation?
La Union's range runs from bunk beds metres from the surf to full-service beachfront resorts, so there's a price point for every kind of trip.
- Surf hostels and budget guesthouses: from AU$10 per night
- Mid-range beachside hotels: from AU$35 per night
- Boutique surf resorts: from AU$65 per night
- Luxury beachfront resorts: from AU$130 per night
What is La Union known for?
La Union earned its reputation as the Philippines' surf capital, and there's plenty to fill the days between sessions.
- Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan the main surf break and the beating heart of Elyu, lined with surf schools for first-timers and regulars alike.
- San Juan's surf schools board hire and lessons are everywhere, with friendly instructors for anyone picking up a board for the first time.
- The San Juan cafe strip a laid-back run of beachside coffee shops and brunch spots that turned this stretch of coast into a foodie favourite too.
- Tangadan Falls a scenic waterfall inland in Bagulin, a great half-day trip and a cool freshwater dip away from the salt.
- Poro Point, San Fernando a headland with sunset views, resort facilities, and easy access from the airstrip.
What are the best hotels in La Union?
Whatever your budget, these are among the most booked stays in La Union.
- Thunderbird Resorts - Poro Point a large-scale resort on the headland with pools, dining, and ocean views.
- Aureo Resort La Union a polished beachfront resort with an infinity pool overlooking the surf break.
- Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa Bali-inspired rooms right in San Juan, popular with surfers wanting a bit of comfort.
- San Juan Surf Resort a long-running favourite with its own surf school on site.
- Monaliza Surf Resort a relaxed, well-located pick for travellers after an easygoing surf-town stay.
- Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel a sociable, budget-friendly base for solo travellers and groups.
Tips for booking a stay in La Union?
A few pointers to make the most of an Elyu getaway.
- Surf season runs roughly September to March when the swells are at their best, so book early if you want a room right on the beach road.
- Weekends see a wave of visitors up from Manila, so mid-week stays are quieter and often cheaper.
- Staying in San Juan puts you within walking distance of both the surf and the cafe strip, handy if you don't want to rely on a tricycle.
- Pack for warm weather year-round, but bring a light layer for breezy evenings by the water.
- If you're after a quieter base with easy airport access, San Fernando is worth considering over San Juan.
