La Union is known as the beach town of San Juan, the surfing capital on this side of North Luzon.

It’s summertime, and you definitely have your plans for your summer vacation. Maybe La Union is on your list. Well, we all know that La Union is known for its beautiful beach and great surfing. I’ve been planning to write this short blog about my previous visit there, and I tell you, the place is just simply awesome. There are a lot of places you can visit aside from the beach.

If you are a first-timer or plan to visit La Union, you are on the right blog site. Let me share my experiences and travel tips with you! Happy reading!

---

BEST TIME TO VISIT LA UNION

Many tourists think the main reason for going to La Union is surfing.

JUL-OCT: The South Swell is caused by the southwest monsoon, known locally as habagat. It produces ideal waves, though this is the height of the rainy season. If you don’t mind surfing in bad weather, this is a good time to go.

NOV-MAR: The North Swell is caused by northeast trade winds known locally as amihan. This is the best time to go surfing because the waves are ideal and there’s less chance of rain.

The North and South Swell seasons are the best waves for long-time surfers, but if you’re a beginner, think twice before you go.

HOW TO GET TO LA UNION FROM MANILA

You can get to San Juan by driving or taking the bus.

BY BUS: Several bus companies can take you to La Union from Manila. Various companies operate the bus from Manila to La Union, with the most popular being Partas and Dominion (both departing from Cubao and Pasay Terminal) and Viron (Cubao and Sampaloc terminals). Fares range from 400 to 800, depending on the bus type.

• Cubao, Bus Terminal
816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines
Telephone Number:
+63 (2) 7278278

• San Fernando, La Union, Bus Mid-Way Station
Quezon Avenue, San Fernando, La Union, Philippines
Telephone Numbers:
+63 (74) 2420464
+63 (74) 2420923

WHERE TO STAY IN LA UNION

Most tourists traveling to La Union pick either San Juan or San Fernando as a base. Both of them are beautiful, but I will go for San Juan. I stayed at my friend’s house. We chose San Juan La Union since most of the budget, and our target places are concentrated here. Not to mention its proximity to the surfing beach – Urbiztondo Beach. But San Fernando also offers good options for travelers willing to spend more for comfort.

There are many affordable hotels and accommodations near the beach. This place isn’t that big, so there aren’t as many resorts compared to more established destinations. But if you are a budget traveler, then it’s a good thing there is already AIRBNB to book your stay.

Since I stayed at my friend’s house, here are my suggestions for traveling to La Union overnight.

Flotsam & Jetsam Artist Hostel
Flotsam & Jetsam is one of the best places to stay in San Juan. I’ve heard about this place even before I had any real desire to visit. This is not only a hostel but also a perfect place for a beach party.

READ ME: Costabella Tropical Beach Resort | Keep Calm and Go to Beach

---

THINGS TO DO IN LA UNION

1. San Juan Beach

This is one of the best places to go surfing, bonding, watching sunsets, and more! It’s a good thing it has nearby food stores and accommodations like Flotsam and Jetsam, the famous Makai bowls, and a lot more!

2. Poro Point Lighthouse

Time to escape and travel to La Union, step out of the shadow of its more famous neighbors. Its day in the sun has come, and the beacon that shines on it arises from Poro Point, an American base on a peninsula within San Fernando City. The Poro Point Lighthouse is a favorite spot, an excellent place for jogs, sprints, cycling, working out, or an early morning walk. The Poro Point Lighthouse is just 10-15 minutes away from San Fernando’s central district, and you can get there either by car or by riding public transportation. No entrance fee is needed; this is open to the public, and tourists or locals may freely walk around and take in the scenery.

3. Flotsam & Jetsam

Looking for a party in San Juan? Then this place is for you. Right after beach surfing or a long drive from tours, have some drinks and get the party started. Flotsam & Jetsam is a trendy hostel with a restaurant and full bar. This place has a fun and lively environment, so most people visiting San Juan will be here getting drinks every night. Of course, this is also near the beach—just 1-3 minutes’ walk!

READ ME: Bohol Tourist Spots and Travel Guide

4. Halo Halo de Iloko – Zandueta Street

La Union also has so much more to offer for food! Here’s one that you should put on your list! Halo Halo de Iloko, home of Ilokano cuisine in San Fernando City, offers not only dessert but also Ilokano blend dishes. This place is known for its HALO HALO, I’ve tasted all kinds of halo halo but here, it’s different! There’s something in their ingredients that you can’t describe! It’s delicioso! Perfecto! Pasalubong goodies are available here as well.

How to go — from Urbiztondo, ride a jeep to San Fernando (PHP11 fare per person). Drop off at the city center and ride a tricycle to Halo Halo de Iloko. Locals are very familiar with it.

5. Ma Cho Temple

No need to go to China. Ma Cho temple can be found in La Union! The Ma-Cho, Mazu, or Ma Cho Temple is a Taoist temple to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu on Quezon Avenue in Barangay II, San Fernando, La Union, in the Philippines.

Things to take note of and observe
1. Ma-Cho temple is open every day between 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
2. There is no entrance fee. Hence, you could explore the temple for free.
3. There are holding areas found around the temple. Dating is prohibited in these areas.

How to go — From Halo Halo de Iloko, ride a tricycle to Ma-Cho Temple (PHP8 fare per person).

WHAT TO READ NEXT?

READ ME: Experience Kawa Bath for only P399.00 at Laveryols Tagaytay
READ ME: Mr Kimchi Tagaytay | Unlimited Korean Samgyup Experience
READ ME: Dreamlands Arts and Crafts Cafe Blog | Tagaytay

---

Thank you for reading my blog!
Don’t forget to LIKE this post and FOLLOW my blog site. :)
See you next time! #mysafespacejournal

---