La Union - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to La Union

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in La Union, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to La Union and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around La Union, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about La Union for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to La Union

La Union is a province located on the northern coast of the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and rich culture and history. The province is divided into 19 municipalities and 1 city, and its capital is the city of San Fernando. Some of the popular attractions in La Union include the surfing beaches of San Juan, the Tangadan Falls, the Ma-Cho Temple, and the Pindangan Ruins. The province is also known for its delicious local cuisine such as the "dinengdeng" and "pinakbet".

What to visit in La Union

La Union is a province in the northern part of the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in La Union: 1. Thunderbird Resort - This luxurious resort is situated on a hilltop overlooking the San Fernando Bay. It offers comfortable accommodation, an infinity pool, and panoramic views of the ocean. It is a popular destination for weddings, corporate events, and romantic getaways.
2. Pindangan Ruins - These ruins are remnants of an old Spanish church that was destroyed during a Chinese uprising in 1660. It is a popular attraction for history buffs and anyone interested in exploring ancient structures.
3. La Union Botanical Garden - This garden is a great place for nature lovers and families to relax and enjoy a day out. It has a collection of different species of plants and trees, a mini-zoo, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
4. Tuddingan Falls - This hidden gem is situated in the town of Naguilian. It requires a short trek through a forest to reach, but the trip is worth it. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
5. Tangadan Falls - Another beautiful waterfall, the Tangadan Falls is located in the town of San Gabriel. It is one of the most popular attractions in La Union due to its picturesque natural beauty.
6. Bacnotan Church - This church is located in the town of Bacnotan and was built in 1704. It is the oldest church in La Union and is also known as the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria.
7. Surfing Spots - With its long coastline, La Union is a prime spot for surfing enthusiasts. San Juan beach and Urbiztondo beach are popular surfing spots, offering both beginner and advanced waves.
8. Baluarte Watchtower - This colonial-era watchtower was built in 1593 to protect the province from invasions. It is now one of the most popular tourist spots in La Union, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
La Union is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone, whether you're interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in La Union.

When to go on holiday to La Union

The best time to go on holiday to La Union is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This season offers comfortable temperatures and lower levels of rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring the beaches. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations can get crowded and prices may be higher. The wet season in La Union typically runs from May to October, with frequent rainfall and the possibility of typhoons. While this may not be the best time for a beach vacation, it can still be a great time to experience local culture and indoor activities such as learning traditional crafts. Ultimately, the best time to visit La Union depends on your preferences and interests.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to La Union

There are several options to get to La Union, Philippines: 1. By air - the nearest airport is the San Fernando Airport in La Union, which caters to domestic flights. The airport is served by Cebu Pacific and Royal Air Philippines.
2. By land - the most common way to get to La Union is by bus. Bus companies such as Partas, Dominion, and Farinas operate daily trips from Manila to San Fernando, La Union. The trip takes about 5-7 hours depending on traffic and the type of bus.
3. By car - if you prefer taking a private vehicle, you can take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Manila and exit at the SCTEX. From there, take the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) and exit at Rosario, La Union. The total travel time is around 4-5 hours sans traffic.
Once you arrive in La Union, you can take a tricycle, jeepney, or rent a car to explore the province's tourist destinations.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit La Union, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in La Union

La Union province in the Philippines is known for its delicious and unique cuisine that highlights the use of fresh seafood and vegetables. Here are some typical foods of La Union with a short description for each: 1. Pinakbet - A traditional dish made with mixed vegetables such as eggplant, string beans, okra, squash, and bitter melon cooked in a savory mixture of fish sauce and bagoong (fermented shrimp paste).
2. Dinengdeng - Another vegetable dish that consists of boiled fish, with malunggay leaves and various vegetables such as eggplants, okra, and tomatoes.
3. Bagnet - A crispy and flavorful pork belly dish that is deep-fried until golden and served as a popular snack or main course.
4. Grilled tilapia - A locally sourced freshwater fish that is marinated with spices, grilled over hot coals, and served with a side of homemade tomato and onion salsa.
5. Longganisa - A sweet and savory sausage that is made with local ingredients such as garlic, brown sugar, and vinegar.
6. Chicharon - A crispy snack made by frying pig skin until it is puffy and crunchy.
7. Buko pie - A sweet pastry filled with creamy coconut meat, typically served as a dessert or snack with a cup of coffee.
8. Halo-halo - A refreshing dessert made with sweet beans, shaved ice, milk, and various fruits or toppings such as leche flan, ube, or jackfruit. These are just some of the typical foods of La Union that are worth trying. Enjoy your trip and culinary adventure!
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is La Union an expensive destination for tourists?

La Union is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines, known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and scenic attractions. The cost of a trip to La Union can vary depending on factors such as the time of year you visit, your accommodation choices, and the activities you want to do.
Generally speaking, La Union can be considered an affordable destination for tourists, with prices for food, transportation, and accommodations being relatively reasonable compared to other tourist hotspots in the country. However, during peak seasons and holidays, prices may increase slightly.
If you are on a tight budget, look for inexpensive accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels, and eat at local eateries instead of high-end restaurants. Additionally, book activities and tours in advance to avoid paying higher prices on the spot.
Overall, La Union can be an affordable option for tourists, but it's always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly based on your travel preferences and needs.

Where to find accomodation in La Union

The best areas to find accommodation to visit La Union in the Philippines are: 1. San Juan - This is the most popular tourist destination in La Union, known for its surfing spots, beaches, and nightlife.
2. Bauang - This is a quieter area with fewer tourists but has good beaches and scenic views.
3. Agoo - This town has a rich historical and cultural heritage, and its proximity to mountains and beaches makes it an ideal base for exploring.
4. Balaoan - This town is home to several surfing spots and beautiful beaches.
5. Aringay - This municipality offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and historic landmarks.
Overall, San Juan is the most ideal area to find accommodation due to its popularity among tourists and proximity to various attractions.
You can check hotel prices at La Union here:
Booking.com

Is La Union a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, La Union is considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is always important to take common sense precautions to ensure your safety while traveling, such as not carrying large amounts of cash, keeping your valuables secure, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. It is also a good idea to research the area you plan to visit and learn about any safety concerns or potential risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting La Union.

What type of travelers will enjoy La Union the most?

La Union in the Philippines is a great destination for all types of travelers, depending on what they are looking for. Couples can enjoy the romantic ambiance of the beaches and sunset views. Young people looking for fun can indulge in surfing, beach parties, and other water activities. Families can enjoy spending quality time together while exploring the beaches, waterfalls, and cultural attractions such as ancient churches. Overall, La Union has something to offer everyone, making it a perfect destination for a diverse group of travelers.

How to get around La Union

The most common modes of transportation in La Union are tricycles, jeepneys, buses, and private vehicles. Tricycles are commonly used for short trips around the town and can accommodate up to three passengers. Jeepneys and buses are the main forms of long-distance transportation and operate along the major highways. Private vehicles can also be rented from car rental companies or can be brought from your own country if you plan on staying long term.

What to see around La Union

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from La Union, Philippines. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Baguio City - about 1.5 hours away from La Union, Baguio is known for its cool climate, scenic views, and cultural attractions like the Tam-Awan Village and BenCab Museum.
2. Pugo Adventure - located in Pugo, La Union, this outdoor adventure park offers activities like zipline, wall climbing, and ATV rides.
3. San Juan Beach - located in San Juan, La Union, this beach is known for its surfing spots and laid-back vibe.
4. Tangadan Falls - located in San Gabriel, La Union, this waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and swimming.
5. La Union Botanical Garden - located in San Fernando, La Union, this peaceful garden showcases a variety of native plants and flowers.
6. Thunderbird Resort - located in Poro Point, La Union, this luxury resort offers stunning views of the ocean and a range of facilities like a casino, spa, and golf course.
7. Our Lady of Namacpacan Church - located in Luna, La Union, this historic church is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
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