San Fernando City Hotels

Facing the Philippine Seas to its west, it is quite fair to say that San Fernando City is quite an idyllic place. The capital of La Union, San Fernando is the political, economic, and industrial center of the province as well as the regional center of Ilocos.

The city’s annual Pindangan Festival that marks the 1998 confirmation of San Fernando’s cityhood is celebrated on 20 March. It is a colorful affair that features performances and displays from the local school and barangays. The festival’s street dance competition is regarded as the highlight of the festival.

How to Go

By plane

The nearest airports to San Fernando are Laoag International Airport (230 kilometers by land) and Clark International Airport (195 kilometers by land).

By boat/ferry

No major sea links presently connect the city with other parts of the Philippines.

By land transportation

Daily bus services run from Manila to San Fernando via multiple bus companies. Look for the Super Deluxe buses operated Farinas Transit to travel in style and comfort.

Getting Around

San Fernando City is serviced by your standard local transportation options including buses, jeepneys, and tricycles. Motorbike rental provides a good option for tourists who want to see more of the city at their own leisure and convenience.

Tourist Attractions

A trip to San Fernando would not be complete without a trip down to Poro Point and the bay walk. While there take in the majesty of the Poro Point lighthouse, with the general scenery most definitely Instagram-worthy and sure to make your friends jealous.

Don’t pass up the chance to see some of the cultural sites such as the Taoist Ma-Cho Temple, and seeing the view of the entire city from Pagoda Hill. For the braver ones out there, the ghost stories about the Pingandan Ruins are sure to chill your bones.

The Kasay Marine Sanctuary is a beautiful 30-hectare expanse found in Barangay Canaoay that was designated as a Marine Protected Area in 2000. The best way to explore the sanctuary is by taking a snorkeling or Scuba trip to see the multitude of beautiful coral and the majestic giant clams.

Lastly, the Hobbitat Forest Park is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and to live out your Lord of the Rings fantasies. Accommodation ranging from campsites to your very own Hobbit Holes a la Bilbo Baggins is available and can be booked through their official channels.

Top Things to Do

Bauang Beach is definitely somewhere you’ll want to pay a visit to if your idea of a good time is lounging by the beach, cocktail in-hand. After taking a quick dip in the warm waters, head back to the beach for a meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants.

A visit to the Gapuz Grape Farm to pick grapes is a unique experience that is not to be passed up. Who knows, you may be able to sample one of their upcoming vintages right at the source.

What better way to experience the local culture by sampling the local delicacies? Night Market SFC has all of the local street food favorites such as isaw, kwek-kwek, fishballs, your barbecue staples and much more.

Where to Eat

If you’re looking for a Filipino feast by the sea then Natalna Grille is the place for you. Their crowd-pleasing favorites such as crispy crablets, grilled squid, and prawns in lemon butter sauce are all sure to hit the spot.

Though maybe not what you were expecting, Gefseis Greek Grill serves up authentic Greek cuisine that makes you feel like you’re having a meal in Santorini and not La Union.

Can you think of anything better than kicking it at the beach with an ice-cold beer and a good bit of barbecue? Well if that’s your idea of a good time then L.U. Barbecue has got your back. Far from your standard roadside barbecue, L.U. Barbecue elevates your all-time favorites. Be sure to look out for the fresh catch of the day.

Nightlife

You’re almost spoilt for choice when it comes to nightlife in San Fernando. Take a quick trip down to the Bauang Beach and stumble from bar to bar all night long while of course keeping an eye out for the deals of the day. Cold beer, sand between your toes, perfect.

Where to Stay

There are accommodations to suit all budgets but it’s when you look towards the upscale hotels that San Fernando truly excels.

Though a relatively new addition to the resort scene in the area, Aureo La Union with their poolside rooms is exactly what you imagine when you daydream about a tropical paradise.

Last but certainly not the least, you can’t talk about San Fernando hotels without giving Thunderbird Poro Point a mention. Their Greek inspired architecture and simply amazing views from the property are well worth what you pay, and having an amazing restaurant with the best view in the area goes a long way to creating an unforgettable stay.

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