La Union Hotels

The province of La Union is famous for its coastline which has perfect waves for surfing all year-round. In addition to its surfing beaches, La Union boasts of its historical places, old churches and delicious delicacies for its visitors who are not just seeking adventure but also beauty in a province.

La Union is located at the Northwest side of the Philippines resulting to it being lined with beautiful surfing beaches. It is a perfect place for a long stop-over if you are traveling from or further North.

How to Go   

By plane

Direct commercial flights to San Fernando City Airport are currently limited and seasonal. There are private charter flights are available but are expensive. An alternative is to take a flight to Clark International Airport in Pampanga, take a jeepney or taxi ride to Dau Terminal, and then ride a bus going to La Union.

If you take a flight to Manila, from there you have to go to Partas Bus Terminal in Pasay where you can find buses going to La Union.

By boat or ferry

Traveling by sea is not yet an available option to go directly to La Union. If you are coming outside Luzon, your boat or ferry should take you to Batangas port. Then, from there you have to ride a bus going North.

By land transportation

From Manila, Partas buses are the most popular choice of ride going to La Union. There are other bus lines available. Travel time usually takes 5-6 hours. Renting a van is also an option if your group wants to travel exclusively.

If you are driving on your own, from Manila take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) then the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), exit at Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac, drive straight along the National Highway through Pangasinan, and then you will arrive at La Union.

Getting Around

In going around the province, there are jeepneys, tricycles, mini-buses and vans-for-rent. You can always ask the locals which mode of transport is the best for where you are going.

Tourist Attractions

La Union is sometimes called the Garden Coast because of its botanical gardens and its surfing communities.

The Taoist Ma-Cho Temple and many old Catholic churches such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Charity and Our Lady of Namacpacan are important tourist spots.

Top Things to Do

Surfing is a must do when you to La Union. The surfing resorts in the towns of San Juan and Urbiztondo has everything for surfers, professionals, beginners or even for just the curious ones. Or you can just watch a surfing competition if you come in December.

Visit also the ten-hectare Botanical Gardens in San Fernando City. Explore the rice fields of Bolikewkew, Delles and Burgos or walk along the Arosip Ecotrail. You may also see the Tangadan Falls and other natural water formations in the province such as Luna Pebble Beach. As a day ends in La Union, stop to watch the sunset on the beach.

Where to Eat

Meals served in most resorts are excellent and must be tried at least once when you stay with them. For authentic Ilocano food, visit Halo-Halo de Iloko. There are also numerous seafood restaurants that you can try. The Australian-Filipino restaurant Lola Nanny’s is highly recommended for those who wish to try authentic Australian meat pies in La Union.

Nightlife

At night, La Union gives you a choice either to party or to relax. Most resorts have a bar and grill, though not many are open 24 hours. If you prefer a different ambience, you can sit by the beach and light a bonfire.

Where to Stay

Most accommodations are rooms at the beach resorts, so that if you want to sleep and wake up with the sound of the waves, try checking in at Isla Bonita Beach Resort, San Juan Surf Resort and Surfer’s Inn. Check out the fancy Thunderbird Resort if in addition to the surfing experience, you want some time playing in a casino or in a golf course as well.

There are also dorm-type accommodations were staying overnight is cheaper, like in Hacienda Peter’s Surf Resort.

Travel Tips