Known as one of the sought-after weekend destinations and the go-to place for an exploit, La Union brings so much to the table, from recreation, adventure, good food, and cheap thrills- it’s so much more than being the Surfing Capital of the North. Whether you’re traveling for a quick break or a lengthy stay, La Union will surely have something for you to enjoy. Visiting museums, dining on local cuisines, buying souvenirs, and of course, learning to ride the waves, are some things to look forward to while spending time in this beautiful place. If ever you want time off away from the buzzing streets of the Metro, La union is always a great choice. In case you decide to drop by, listed down below are the best things to do in La Union, the Philippines.
1. Visit the historic Pindangan Ruins
Known for its beautiful mossy old structures, Pindangan Ruins is an ideal place to visit for heritage conservation advocates and history lovers. It’s in San Fernando, La Union, whose name comes from the Ilokano term Pinandangan. Pinandangan Ruins are the remnants of an old church back in the ‘80s. Upon arrival at the site, you will witness the serenity and solemnity of the place. Also, you will notice that the only remaining structure of the old church is its walls, which used to confine the faith of the people into one religious structure. It’s advisable to visit the site in the mornings.
Pindangan Ruins
Address: San Fernando, La Union
Website: Pindangan Ruins
2. Witness the beauty of the Tangadan Falls
Travelers planning to take a trip to La Union shouldn’t miss seeing its magnificent Tangadan Falls located in San Gabriel. There are two tiers for these falls- the lower tier is only 100 feet (30.5 meters) wide wherein the basin that the water goes to is the perfect spot for a little swim. The upper tier, on the other hand, is ideal for cliff jumping. If ever you get tired of the water, you can hop onto one of the bamboo rafts for a break in which you’ll still be able to enjoy the relaxing sound of the falls.
Tangadan Falls
Address: San Gabriel, La Union
Website: Tangadan Falls
Opening hours: 6am - 5pm (daily)
Traveler's tips
Tangadan Falls, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of La Union, Philippines, is a captivating oasis that effortlessly marries nature's splendor with serene tranquility. The falls present a breathtaking sight as its crystal-clear waters cascade down multiple tiers into a tranquil emerald pool below. The journey to Tangadan Falls itself is an adventure, involving a scenic trek, crossing bamboo bridges, and wading through shallow streams.
The best time to experience the falls in all its glory is during the months of November to April. This period ensures that the water levels are ideal for swimming and relishing the cool embrace of the natural pool. It's best to embark on the trek earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat and the potential crowds that might gather as the day progresses.
3. Experience grape-picking in Gapuz Grapes Farm
One of the experiences you shouldn’t miss while in La Union, is a grape-picking opportunity. Located in Bauang, Gapuz Grape Farm is known as the first-ever vineyard in the province. Locals often call it, ‘The Porch Life’ for it does not only offers fruit-picking activities but also offers visitors a hearty boodle fight to enjoy. Also, guests can easily access this beautiful vineyard since it is quite famous to both locals and tourists alike. On top of that, the entrance fee is free.
Gapuz Grapes Farm
Address: Brgy, MacArthur Highway, Bauang, 2501 La Union
Website: Gapuz Grapes Farm
Opening hours: Fri - Wed: 7am - 6pm (closed on Thu)
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4. La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden
Located in San Fernando, La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden is one of the main attractions of the province. It offers beautiful landscapes to explore. It’s a true beauty which you should never miss visiting. Also, it’s a natural paradise that should be on your bucket list. You can experience a lot here, such as discovering unique plants and meeting different animals. Moreover, if you’re looking for a place where you can find a stress-free environment away from the city life, this is the place to be.
La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden
Address: San Fernando, La Union
Website: La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
5. Watch the sunset at Baluarte Watch Tower
Located in Luna, La Union, Baluarte Watch Tower is a centuries-old Spanish fortress in the Philippines, which was used to fend off pirates. More than being a historical piece, it’s now serving as a spot for tourist attractions. Also, it is the perfect site for family camping and group picnics because of its beautiful ambiance with the coast near the tower. Additionally, it proves to be the perfect spot for taking aesthetic photos. On top of that, travelers can spend a few hours leaning on the tower while taking a break. Sunsets are something to look forward to here.
Baluarte Watch Tower
Address: Luna, La Union
Website: Baluarte Watch Tower
6. Have fun at PUGAD Pugo Adventure
Famously known as Pugad, Pugo Adventure, this beautiful resort is the perfect place to cool off from the heat of the summer. Aside from its revitalizing outdoor pools, it also offers tons of fun activities to enjoy. Wall climbing, rappelling, and zip lines are some of the extreme adventures you can experience here. In case you are bringing the whole family with you, you don’t have to worry because the place is for everyone. Its facilities include kid-friendly pools and slides. Also, you won’t have a problem with which food to bring since it has an on-site restaurant serving meals that will fit the taste of both adults and youngsters.
PUGAD Pugo Adventure
Address: Pugo, La Union
Website: PUGAD Pugo Adventure
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
7. Marvel at the beauty of Occalong Falls
Located in the historic town of Luna in La Union, Occalong Falls is one of the breathtaking falls there is in the province. Travelers also opt to visit the falls because of its availability and accessibility. It will only take a short ride of a tricycle to get in here. Occalong Falls is hidden enough for travelers who want some alone time while swimming in the freshwater; this is why it’s known as the hidden gem of Luna. It’s advisable to ask locals for directions since the waterfall is hard to find but easy enough to trek once you’re in the right direction.
Occalong Falls
Address: Luna, La Union
Website: Occalong Falls
Opening hours: 5am - 7pm (daily)
8. Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue
If you’re up for a bit of straining activity, visiting the famous Christ the Redeemer in San Fernando, La Union, will give you a feeling of achievement once you arrive at the place. It will take you a while to ascend the path leading to the hilltop where the statue is standing. But, there’s surely a good feeling once you’re at the foot of the fortress. Moreover, you’ll get to see panoramic views of the city. It’s ideal for travelers who love doing things that make them feel exhilarated and alive.
Christ the Redeemer Statue
Address: Hill top, San Fernando, 2500 La Union
Website: Christ the Redeemer Statue
Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)
9. Trek the trail to Tuddingan Falls
Another one of the most spectacular falls of La Union is Tuddingan Falls in Naguilian. It’s an ideal place for travelers who want to see easily accessible waterfalls. It’s formerly known as Burayok Falls, which is just a few miles away from the town center. Tourists who plan to visit this natural wonder will have fun walking along the cemented pathway with grills up to the hill, giving the perfect view of the falls. The path has lined trees and shrubs, the sound of the birds chirping, and the flowing of water that make the short hike relaxing and refreshing.
Tuddingan Falls
Address: Tuddingan, Naguilian, La Union
Website: Tuddingan Falls
10. Visit the beautiful Ma-Cho Temple
Ma-Chao Temple is a Taoist temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, who sacrificed her life to save the people from drowning in the deep sea. It is seven-stories high, located in San Fernando, La Union. There are a lot of highlights in choosing to visit this beautiful site, including the Bamboo Garden, the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower, the Majestic Five Door Gate, and the Liang Thing Pagoda. Additionally, once inside the temple, you’ll get to see ancient Chinese artwork and decor which you can appreciate once you walk through the door.
Ma-Cho Temple
Address: Ma-Cho Temple Driveway, Quezon Ave, San Fernando, La Union
Website: Ma-Cho Temple
11. Attend a mass in Saint William the Hermit Cathedral
Located in San Fernando, the beautiful Saint William the Hermit Cathedral is the main attraction in the entire diocese of the city. It’s the place to go if you want to attend a mass when you’re in the city. It’s big enough to accommodate a large number of guests. It’s simple, yet there’s a beauty in its simplicity wherein the structure of the church shows the craftsmanship and artistry of the Ilokanos. Also, on the front right side of the church, are stalls selling food and souvenirs.
St. William the Hermit Cathedral Parish
Address: San Fernando, La Union
12. Marvel at the beauty of Basilica Minore
Posted by Nerry Enriquez on Sunday, 25 August 2019
Founded in the late ‘8os, Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity is one of the places that tourists go to whenever they visit La Union for it is known to grant wishes. It’s where most devotees gather to pray for whatever they want in life. Its architecture is from the Mexican Baroque features which include a rosette-stained glass window, a gray front wall, and carved Hebrew scripts. Also, the uniqueness of its architecture is visible through its two non-identical bell towers. Its location is in the heart of the Agoo.
Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity
Address: Agoo, La Union
13. Learn how to ride the waves at Urbiztondo Beach
Located in the heart of San Juan, La Union, lies the famous Urbiztondo Beach known as the forming scene of the province. It’s one of the country’s premier surfing spots. It’s the primary spot where you’ll see professional and amateur surfers test out the waves. Also, there are a lot of surfing camps which offer lessons to both locals and tourists who want to learn how to ride the waves. One of the best camps to join in is San Juan Surf School, which ensures that you will learn from the best coaches.
Urbiztondo Beach
Address: San Juan, La Union
Website: Urbiztondo Beach
Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)
14. Explore Bacsil Ridge
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Bacsil Ridge Monument on Sunday, August 31, 2014
Are you one of those people who love visiting historic sites? If yes, a visit to the historic Bacsil Ridge Monument might interest you. Located in San Fernando, this monument is known as one of the battle sites in La Union. It’s in mountainous terrain, 100 km (62 miles) away from the city. Also, the ridge is for commemorating the hard-fought battle during the Japanese era. One of the highlights of visiting the place is its beautiful ambiance, especially during the late afternoons, when the sun is close to setting, and the sky contains orange hues.
Bacsil Ridge
Address: F. Ortega Hwy, San Fernando, La Union
Website: Bacsil Ridge
Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)
15. Explore the stunning Immuki Island
Located in the coastal town of Bacnotan is the beautiful Immuki Island whose name comes from a sea creature called sea slugs because the shape of the lagoon is like these creatures. Looking at the island, you’ll see that it looks like scattered lands. Also, you’ll be surprised to see that the sand is ivory mixed with seashells and white pebbles. One of the highlights of this island is its central lagoon where most tourists go to upon arriving in Immuki. But the southern part of the coast is also a sight to behold.
Immuki Island
Address: Bacnotan - Luna - Balaoan Rd, Bacnotan, La Union
Website: Immuki Island
16. Trek the bewitching Balay Anito Falls
If you’re an adventurer who is a big fan of physical activities, trekking to the breathtaking Balay Anito Falls is going to be a great experience for you. Located in San Gabriel, it is one of the most-visited places in La Union. The perfect time to visit the place is early in the morning when you can avoid other tourists who are going to the same place. Also, you don’t have to worry about being too exposed to the sun, for the path that you’ll be going to is surrounded by forest trees.
Balay Anito Falls
Address: San Gabriel, La Union
Website: Balay Anito Falls
17. Witness the crystal clear water of Tapuacan River
Located in Pugo, Tapuakan River is one of the must-visit places here in La Union, an hour away from Baguio City. It is known for its clean waters and its safe inland body of water. There are a lot of ways to get there, like renting a private vehicle. Upon arrival at the site, you’ll see clean rocks in different sizes serving as your direction towards the beautiful Tapuakan River. It’s ideal to go there early in the morning if you want to see its cleanest form.
Tapuacan River
Address: Pugo, La Union
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
18. Relish local cuisines at Patio Del Sol Food
One thing you’ll learn while traveling to La Union is the difficulty of finding a local restaurant. Luckily, Patio Del Sol Food serves the best local seafood dishes in San Fernando. It has a rustic vibe which you’ll already feel upon arrival to the door. Also, it has no fancy chairs or tables, but it has a wide rectangular table situated right next to a big window. The best part about this place is its closeness to the beach. You can walk to the beach, get your feet wet, and enjoy the sunshine.
Patio del Sol Seafood Restaurant
Address: 39 San Vicente Rd, San Fernando, 2500 La Union
Website: Patio del Sol Seafood Restaurant
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
19. Enjoy craft beer at Curious Creatures Taproom
Located in the surf town of La Union, Curious Creatures Taproom is the place to go if you want to experience beer as you’ve never before, craft beer that breaks the old definition of what beer supposed to be. The owner of this unique bar believes that tourists need more beer options, which is why they create tasty mixed alcohols, such as Mango chili beer, passionfruit beer, coffee chocolate stouts, and mind-blowing drinks. Curious Creatures create unique mixtures of beer from the conservative Pale Pilsen to the most adventurous drinks; there is something for everyone.
Curious Creatures
Address: Urbiztondo Rd, San Juan, La Union
Website: Curious Creatures
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5pm - 12am; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 12am (closed on Tue)
20. Visit Museo de Iloko
Located in Agoo, La Union, Museo de Iloko is known as one of the greatest museums in the province. It’s commonly known as ‘presedencia’ of the Agoo. It contains artifacts and other cultural pieces which are of importance to the Ilokanos. It’s open during the weekdays starting from eight in the morning to five in the evening, and it is closed during the weekends. But guests can make arrangements if they want to see the place on Saturdays. Moreover, it is easy to find the place since it’s near the town center.
Museo de Iloko
Address: Agoo, La Union
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed from Sat - Sun)
21. Experience the world of science at The Union Science Centrum and Museum
La Union Science Centrum and Museum is the first-ever interactive hands-on discovery museum in the North. It provides practical and exciting educational experiences through interactive exhibits and its portable Planetarium. It’s the perfect place to go for anyone who loves to learn anything that involves science and discoveries. Also, it’s an environment where science is portrayed as something more than figures and facts. If you want to experience the world of science and everything it entails, this place is the best place to visit.
The Union Science Centrum and Museum
Address:San Fernando, La Union
Website: The Union Science Centrum and Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed from Sat - Sun)
22. Check out the artwork at Kamay na Bato Open Art Gallery
Located in Brgy Nalvo Norte, a few minutes’ drive away from Baluarte Watch Tower, is the beautiful Stone Hand Art Gallery. It is owned by a Korean sculptor whose fascination with Filipino culture is because of his Filipina wife. There are a lot of unique art pieces to see here, including carved faces of people in stones and 3D art too. If you’re an artist or someone who appreciates art, this gallery will surely inspire you on your next art piece. Also, you can take a lot of aesthetic pictures to post on your social media accounts.
Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery
Address: Nalvo Norte, Bacnotan - Luna - Balaoan Rd, Luna, La Union
Website: Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
23. Have coffee at Clean Beach Coffee
Located in 134 Beachfront, Clean Beach Coffee is not only a cafe but it also reminds customers of their manners. It’s a cafe that promotes the use of tumblers instead of paper cups, bamboo straws rather than plastic straws by using cute signages and posters. It’s a beautiful spot to chill at after spending your time at the beach. Also, its decor and aesthetic is something that artists and selfie lovers will love seeing for themselves. On top of that, it serves mocha drinks with natural chocolate, unlike the others.
Clean Beach Coffee
Address: 134 Beachfront, MacArthur Highway,, Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, 2514 La Union
Website: Clean Beach Coffee
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
The perfect getaway destination
La Union is the best place to get away to- whether you’re looking for a short break or a lengthy stay, it’s the place to be. From learning to ride the waves to chasing waterfalls, and from trekking hilltops to witnessing beautiful landscapes- La Union is the perfect place to feel alive.
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