EPIC LA UNION Itinerary! | Activities, Accommodations, Day Trips and More!

La Union is a province in the Philippines, located on the west shore of the country. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Manila and makes for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the capital city.

Nicknamed the surfing capital of the Philippines, it’s known for its fabulous beaches and tropical allure. With this comes an exceptionally   and endless water activities. La Union is an outdoor lover’s dream.

However, it’s so much more than just a ‘Beach Town.’ Away from the shore, you’ll find historical and cultural sites, family attractions, hiking trails, and friendly local restaurants and bars.

With this La Union itinerary, you’ll discover everything this wonderful destination has to offer.

Best Time to Visit La Union

Deciding when to visit is an important part of planning your trip, so let’s start off your La Union tour itinerary by briefly going over the weather.

Like other countries in Southeast Asia, there are really only two seasons. The dry season, which lasts from November to April, and the rainy season, which lasts from May to October.

The dry season makes touring La Union a bit more predictable, as your plans won’t be affected by rain. However, the rainy season isn’t too wet compared to other Asian countries, and you may find the rain a refreshing reprieve from the warm temperatures. 

Speaking of temperatures, they fluctuate very little – La Union is blessed with plenty of sunshine and year-round warm weather.

If you’re planning a trip to La Union for surfing, the best time to visit is from July to August, and November – March, due to the northern and southern swell.

Here is a more detailed look at each month.

January – 20°C / 69°F – Average – Busy 🙂

February – 22°C / 70°F – Average – Medium 🙂

March – 23°C / 74°F – Low – Medium 😀

April – 25°C / 76°F – Low – Medium 😀

May – 25°C / 76°F – Low – Medium 😀

June -24°C / 75°F – High – Calm 😐

July –  24°C / 75°F – Average – Medium 🙂

August – 24°C / 75°F – Average – Medium 🙂

September – 24°C / 75°F – Low – Medium 🙂

October  – 23°C / 74°F – High – Busy 😀

November  – 22°C / 73°F – High – Busy 😐

December  – 20°C / 71°F – High – Busy 😐

Where to Stay in La Union

Deciding where to stay is a key component to carrying out your La Union itinerary. Here is a quick rundown of the different options you’ll have for areas to stay in.

San Juan is one of the most popular places to stay in La Union. It’s right on the beach, which is great for surfing and water activities. You’ll find plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area as well. It has a lively nightlife scene, so if you’re into partying, this is the area you’ll want to stay in.

Bauang is less touristy than San Juan. It’s known for its fine sand beaches, which are generally less crowded than the beaches found in San Juan. The waves are usually more calm in Bauang. If you’re after a more laid-back holiday, this is a great area to stay in for a peaceful vacation.

San Fernando is located in the middle of San Juan and Bauang. Being centrally located, it has the best location to base yourself for your La Union itinerary. You’ll find plenty of options for accommodation, as well as restaurants, bars, and grocery stores. If you’re spending 3 days in La Union, or less, this is the best area to stay in.

Best Hostel in La Union – Lokal Home

Lokal Home has a very laid-back and unassuming atmosphere. It’s also in a great location, just a short walk from the beach.

You’ll find all your hostel necessities: a self-catering kitchen, an outdoor terrace, a common room, and free Wi-Fi. It’s a total bargain, and the price will fit perfectly with your La Union budget.

Check on HostelWorld

Best Budget Hotel in La Union – Marand Resort & Spa

Located in Bauang, the Marand Resort & Spa offers guests all the modern comforts. You’ll have access to a bar, restaurant, water park, outdoor pool, and room service. Guests can also enjoy a continental breakfast each morning (for a fee).

All rooms feature a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.

Check on Booking.com    Check on HotelsCombined

Best Luxury Hotel in La Union – Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point

If you’re planning a luxurious La Union getaway, the Thunderbird Resort is the place you’ll want to be. This lavish accommodation has an infinity pool, a golf course, and an on-site casino. There are also multiple places for dining and drinking on the property.

All rooms feature air conditioning, a balcony with gorgeous sea views, and a flat-screen TV.

Check on Booking.com    Check on HotelsCombined

La Union Itinerary

Next up, let’s cover a few options for transportation. Knowing how to get around is an important part of your itinerary for La Union, and luckily, you’ll have a few choices available. 

If you’re traveling from Manila to La Union by bus, you’ll be dropped off at a bus terminal, which is in a popular area. From there, you’ll be in a great location to choose your mode of transport going forward.

Jeepneys are the most popular form of public transport in the Philippines. These are smaller sized buses. They’re usually crowded, but they’re cheap and a reliable way to get from point A to point B. Riding one is a fun cultural experience. Plus, you can learn a lot about the area from your driver and fellow passengers.

If you prefer to travel at your own pace, you can rent a car or bike to get around. This is relatively inexpensive and gives you complete freedom with your La Union itinerary. Renting a car can be a great option for groups in particular, as you can split the cost.

Exploring La Union on your own is an experience in itself. Navigating is fairly easy – as long as you have a phone or some form of GPS.

Day 1 Itinerary in La Union

Gapuz Grape Farm | Pindangan Ruins | Poro Point (San Fernando Point) | Ma-Cho Temple (Taoist Temple) | Christ the Redeemer Statue  | Urbiztondo Beach | San Juan

Kick off the first day of your La Union itinerary visiting the best cultural sites in the area. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit – the ocean is never too far away, and daily beach time is mandatory.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – La Union Grape Farms

• Why it’s awesome: This grape farm invites guests to try out a fun activity – grape picking. 
• Cost: Entrance is free, you pay per weight for the grapes you pick.
• Food nearby: Maykan Restaurant is a great place for fresh food at a reasonable price. Enjoy a hot local meal and a cool refreshing fruit shake.

The Gapuz Grapes Farm is a picturesque vineyard in La Union filled with grapes.

They have a neat system where you can pick as many grapes as you’d like. You pay for them based on their weight. The prices are lower than what you’d pay in a typical grocery store in the area. The grapes are exceptionally sweet and a nice treat on a warm day.

They also sell juices and sweet wine that they produce from the grapes grown on the property. If you’re hungry, small food and snack items are sold, as well as souvenirs items.

The staff is very accommodating and friendly. They make sure your trip is a fun experience, rather than just a quick stopover.

Grape season is from about March to May. This is when the grapes will taste their best. If you’re visiting outside of these months, it’s still worth a trip. The farm is always stocked with fresh juices, wine, and local items. Plus, the scenery is spectacular, it’s a great place for a photo op.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Pindangan Ruins

• Why it’s awesome: A nice historical spot that offers a refreshing sense of calmness.
• Cost: USD $0.50 entrance fee
• Food nearby: If you’re hungry, head to Probinsyano Buffet for all-you-can-eat dishes with great variety.

The Pindangan Ruins are one of the most interesting La Union landmarks. This historic site dates back to times when the country was colonized by Spain. Currently, what remains are the ruins of the original church that was built on the site in 1764.

The space is small but serene. It’s definitely worth checking out while you’re in the area. As you can imagine, the crumbling ruins will provide a unique backdrop to a vacation selfie.

You won’t need to budget a lot of time on your La Union itinerary for this stop.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Ma-Cho Temple (Taoist Temple)

• Why it’s awesome: This temple is easily one of the most visually stunning La Union attractions. It’s an architectural masterpiece.
• Cost: Entrance is free, although donations are encouraged
• Food nearby: Halo-Halo de Iloko is a casual eatery that offers authentic Filipino dishes and desserts.

The Ma-Cho Temple is a beautiful 7-story Taoist temple that faces the sea. It was built in 1977 by Filipino-Chinese devotees and promotes the culture of the Chinese. As typical with Taoist temples, the colors and details of the design include mythical dragons and fishes. The interior of the temple is filled with ancient Chinese decorations and art.

The temple is perched on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, with a panoramic view of the San Fernando Harbor. There are many areas guests are free to explore. The complex contains water fountains, towers, gardens, a pagoda, and more.

When you visit, make sure to wear proper, modest attire. To show respect, visitors should cover their shoulders and legs from the knees up when entering the temple.

Insider Tip: The temple is open from 7:00 am – 5:00 pm. Try and go as close to opening or closing time as possible to avoid large crowds and the heat of the day.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Poro Point (San Fernando Point)

• Why it’s awesome: A small, yet stunning peninsula. It’s a lovely place to take a self-guided La Union walking tour.
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: Dae Hea Korean BBQ & Restaurant (Jinyou) serves up authentic Korean cuisine. Make sure to try the Kimchi when you visit, it’s the perfect combo of sour and spicy.

Poro Point, also known as San Fernando Point, is a serene peninsula that juts out into the South China Sea. It has a wonderful seaside ambiance and offers quite a few fun attractions.

The Mediterranean inspired Thunderbird Resort is nestled on a cliff on the peninsula. It’s one of the more modern La Union points of interest. You can get a day pass and enjoy full access to this beautiful resort’s facilities for USD $30. $14 of your ticket price is credited back to you for use at the restaurants located on the property.

Have a swim in the large pools at the resort, gamble at the casino, and wander around the stunning grounds overlooking the sea.

Another great addition to your La Union itinerary is the Poro Point Lighthouse. This historic structure was built in 1905. It’s located on a military base, so you can’t walk up to it. You can get close enough to take a photo with an amazing backdrop though.

Lastly, the Poro Point Baywalk is another neat attraction worth a visit. It’s a nice recreational area, perfect for scenic walks or runs. If you’re planning a trip to La Union with kids, there’s also a playground where your little ones can burn off some energy.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Christ the Redeemer Statue

• Why it’s awesome: The statue covers a great vantage point of San Fernando.
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: Muchas Gracias Family Restaurant is a great place to enjoy home-cooked Phillipino meals.

The Christ the Redeemer Statue in La Union mimics the statue of Jesus Christ found in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Although not as large as the one in South America, it still possesses a grand and imposing elegance.

Following a manageable walk up the hilltop, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the city and the ocean. It’s perfect for picture taking and enjoying a peaceful break from a busy day of sightseeing with your itinerary for La Union.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Urbiztondo Beach

• Why it’s awesome: This beach is known as the surfing capital of the north.
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: Gefseis Greek Grill is a great place to indulge in a meal after surfing. It offers great views of the beach and has a fun, lively ambiance.

Urbiztondo Beach is a local gem that caters to every type of beachgoer. It’s clean, well-maintained, and very popular with both locals and tourists alike. It’s also surrounded by lots of oceanfront eateries, bars, and hotels.

It’s the main beach in La Union for surfing. If you’re eager to have a go at catching some waves, you’ll find a few nearby shops that rent out surfboards.

Don’t worry if you’re new to surfing, or prefer swimming, there are also areas on the beach where the waves are more relaxed. Lifeguards are on duty during the day at certain sections of the beach.

If you’re a sun-worshipper, grab a cold drink from a nearby kiosk and take in some rays right in the middle of paradise.

The beach is also known for hosting breathtaking sunsets. No vacation in La Union would be complete without relaxing beachside and watching the sun disappearing into the night sky.

Insider Tip: An area in Urbiztondo Beach known as “Point Break” is the best place to catch some waves.

Day 1 / Stop 7 – San Juan

• Why it’s awesome: This lively area of La Union has a great nightlife scene.
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: Beach Bum Food Park offers a menu with lots of variety, from local dishes to hand-crafted pizzas.

If you’re looking to add some fun nightlife options to your La Union trip itinerary, San Juan is the area you’ll want to visit. It has a very lively feel after the sun goes down and is well-stocked with fun beach-themed bars and eateries.

For a chill spot to enjoy an after-beach cool down, head to Ol’ Pub La Union. This casual eatery has a super relaxed vibe, it’s a great place to grab some local food and cold beers.

They also regularly host live music and have outdoor seating. If you’re spending a weekend in La Union, this is a great place to hang out, as they stay open late.

Curious Creatures Taproom is a must-try for all beer lovers. It provides an avenue for people to learn about and explore craft beer. Their selection of brews on tap is always changing, and their flavors are quite creative. The taproom is small, friendly, and unassuming.

Whether you’re spending one day in La Union, or more, San Juan is a great place to discover the local nighttime vibe. Do a bit of bar-hopping, indulge in the local cuisine, and mingle with the locals and your fellow travellers.

Day 2 Itinerary in La Union

Tangadan Falls  | Immuki Island | Darigayos Beach | Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery | St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish | Baluarte Watch Tower

Day two of your itinerary will see you discovering the absolute best La Union tourist spots related to nature. For good measure, we’ve also included some local gems off the beach.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Tangadan Falls

• Why it’s awesome: A beautiful series of cascading waterfalls away from the busyness of La Union.
• Cost: USD $1.00 entrance fee.
• Food nearby: You won’t find any food options nearby. Make sure to pack a few snacks to enjoy while you’re visiting though, you’ll be in a prime area for picnicking. 

Tangadan Falls is a hidden treasure off the beaten path of La Union. It’s a picturesque natural attraction that’s great for swimming, cliff jumping, hiking, and being one with nature. It’s the perfect place to start the second day of your La Union itinerary.

Once you arrive at the Tangadan Falls entrance, you’ll need to trek for about an hour to reach the falls. Don’t worry, the journey isn’t too strenuous, and you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of nature.

If you’re worried about getting lost, or you’d prefer to make the journey with a local, you can hire a guide for USD $10 – $12 at the entrance. This is the price per group, so if you’re traveling with a few other people, you can split the cost.

Along the route, you’ll pass a few areas for cliff jumping. If you’re not bothered by heights, take a break and have a go! If you’re with a guide, they’ll be able to point out the best areas.

Once you arrive at the cascading waterfalls, spend some time admiring the wonders of nature. Have a refreshing dip in the water. Enjoy a picnic with incredible views. Walk around the surrounding area and capture some epic nature shots.

Don’t forget to budget some extra time in your La Union itinerary for the hike back.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Immuki Island

• Why it’s awesome: The island is secluded and rugged, it’s nature at its finest.
• Cost: USD $0.50 entrance fee.
• Food nearby: Along the route from the falls to Immuki Island you’ll pass Bacnotan Longganisa. This roadside eatery is right off the highway, it’s a quick place to pull over and enjoy some delicious Filipino food.

Immuki Island is one of the more low-key La Union attractions. The beaches that surround the island are clean, bare, and unspoiled by heavy tourism. It’s a small slice of paradise.

Lagoons have formed offshore that are like small enclosed swimming pools. They’re the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing dip. 

You’ll have two options for getting here. The first option is to ride a boat over for a small fee. This is probably the best option if you’re traveling with kids or older adults.

The second option is to walk over. The island can easily be reached on foot. You have to walk through the shallow waters between the main island of Barangay Paraoir and Immuki Island. The best time to do this is at low tide when the water is knee-deep. If you do it at high tide, the water will be waist-deep.

Make sure to wear durable swim slippers or footwear for the walk over. You’ll be traveling over dead coral and rocks, which are sharp. Water slippers can be purchased or rented cheaply near the island. The good news is the water is very clear, so you’ll be able to see where you’re stepping.

The clear water also makes Immuki Island a great place for snorkeling. You can rent gear before you head over to take along with you.

Insider Tip: There isn’t much shade offered on the island, so make sure to pack your sunscreen!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Darigayos Beach

• Why it’s awesome: The water at this beach is very calm and warm, you’ll feel like you’re in a bathtub. 
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: You won’t find any restaurants nearby, but there are several resorts you can stop into to grab something to eat.

Darigayos Beach is a scenic and peaceful beach. It’s just two miles north of Immuki Island, making it an easy next stop as you continue to cruise along the coast.

If you’re looking for non-touristy beaches in La Union, this is another great option. You’ll usually encounter very few people when you visit.

The beach is characterized by white sand and clear, warm waters. The sea usually remains calm, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a great place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy a picnic.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: A creative and colorful local art gallery. 
• Cost: USD $1.00
• Food nearby: Panganan Barrientos is a small restaurant where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

By now, you’ll probably want to duck inside for a little while after spending your morning and early afternoon outdoors in the sun. The Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery is the perfect place to do so.

This seaside art gallery showcases Filipino creativity through stone sculptures, woodwork, and unique paintings. It’s a great place to explore the local culture of La Union.

You’ll find all sorts of innovative and creative works of art. It’s also very colorful – perfect for Instagram shots. There are large murals that hang on the walls you can stand in front of for selfies.

There’s also a small souvenir shop that sells simple items like shirts, toys, bags, as well as cold refreshments and light snacks.

Insider Tip: The art gallery is located on Nalvo Pebble Beach, a gorgeous, non-touristy beach. Head outside after you visit the art gallery and have an impromptu photo shoot.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish of Luna

• Why it’s awesome: This catholic church tells the story of the Philippine’s Spanish influence through its unique architecture, decorations, and art.
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: Ilonggo, Ilocano Eatery is a local roadside eatery with affordable food and friendly service.

St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish is located in Luna, a small town in the province of La Union. It’s one of the historical churches in the area. It was erected during the early 1700s in a baroque style.

The facade is a beautiful creamy white with blue accents. The inside is equally stunning, with large wooden beams, ornate religious objects, and a Spanish-era stone pulpit. It’s said that the water from the well of the church heals the body and can cure diseases.

This historic structure holds great historical significance to the town for a few reasons. For one, it’s named after St. Catherine of Alexandria, which is the town’s patron saint. The church is also famous for housing the shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan. Before being named Luna, the town was named Namacpacan.

A fun fact about the St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish is that it’s classified as an earthquake Baroque church. Since it’s built-in an earthquake-prone area of the Philippines, it has thick walls and a brick exterior meant to withstand strong earthly forces.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Baluarte Watch Tower

• Why it’s awesome: This watchtower is one of the oldest La Union landmarks.
• Cost: Free
• Food nearby: Don Segundo House of Antiques and Restaurant is a fun eatery with funky decor and delicious food.

The Baluarte Watch Tower is a centuries-old watchtower that was built during the Spanish period. It’s located next to the sea, on a beautiful pebble beach. Understanding the history behind this landmark is what makes it so fascinating.

It was built as a lookout tower – to warn against invaders traveling by sea. It was constructed using adobe and coral blocks. Eventually, the structure split in two. And, In 2015 it suffered further collapse when a typhoon struck the coast.

However, it has since then been restored, and today, it stands as a valuable piece of Filipino history. It’s one of the more interesting La Union attractions.  

The watchtower is the perfect place to end your 2-day itinerary in La Union. After having a walk around the structure, you’ll be in a prime location to relax on the beach and watch a fabulous sunset.

La Union Day 3 and Beyond

La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden  | Bulalakaw Falls |Bauang Beach | Pugad Pugo Adventure | Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Charity

If you’re spending more than 2 days in La Union, you’re going to need some more activities to fill your time. Here are some more noteworthy attractions we recommend checking out.

La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden

• The entrance fee is less than USD $1.00 for adults
• One of the best tourist spots in La Union for every type of traveler
• Open daily from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

The La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden is an attraction that is the first of its kind in the Philippines. Opened in 1996, this themed nature park is made up of beautifully landscaped gardens.

The property is sectioned into themes. These include a shade garden, sunken garden, evergreen garden, arid garden, fragrance garden, and a fernery and palmary. They showcase tropical plants from around the world, as well as indigenous Philippines plants.

You’ll learn information about these exotic plants as you wander around. They’re labeled with interesting facts, including their scientific names and origin. 

There is also an aviary on the ground – this is a large enclosure for birds. However, unlike bird cages, it allows the birds a large living space where they’re able to fly around, and simulates their natural environment with local plants. 

The gardens are a nice place to relax and enjoy peace of mind. Everyone will enjoy this La Union tourist attraction, from couples to kids.

Bulalakaw Falls

• A small entrance fee is required to enter
• There are several waterfalls in the area
• A nice low-key place to spend a few hours

Leave the saltwater behind for a few hours and spend some time in the freshwater of the Philippines. The Bulalakaw Falls are a beautiful hidden paradise. They’re less popular than the other waterfalls in the area, but are still stunning to see in person. 

As typical with waterfalls in this area, you’ll need to do a bit of hiking to reach them. Once you arrive at the entrance, it’ll take about 20-30 minutes on foot. The journey is mostly flat and easy to navigate. As you hike, you’ll see stunning rock formations along the mountain cliffs that surround you.

Once you arrive, you can enjoy a refreshing dip. The falls drop into a pool of clear water, with a beautiful blue and green hue. They’re the perfect depth for swimming.

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys nature and hiking, this is an essential stop on your La Union trip itinerary.

Bauang Beach

• A relaxing beach perfect for every type of beachgoer
• The beach is free to access
• A great place to spend all day, or a few hours

Bauang Beach is a piece of paradise made up of fine white sand, colorful seashells, and gently rolling waves. It’s another gorgeous beach that will make a great option to add to your La Union itinerary.

There is an abundance of beach resorts, restaurants, and bars in the immediate vicinity of the beach. But, although it’s surrounded by modernization, it maintains a peaceful charm.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and out of the water. The beach is blessed with an abundance of marine life, which makes snorkelling and scuba diving quite an enjoyable activity.

Surfing is a popular water sport during certain times of the year. The waves generally remain less intense than other beaches in La Union, which makes this a great spot for beginners.

If you get hungry, you can visit the Blue Cat, located along Bauang Beach. With incredible views, cold beer, and home-cooked meals, it’s the perfect place to take a break from the sun. 

Pugad Pugo Adventure

• Open every day from 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
• USD $4.00 entrance fee
• There’s an activity everyone can enjoy, from children to adults. 

Pugad Pugo Adventure is an outdoor adventure center in La Union. You’ll find all sorts of fun attractions located on one sprawling property.

There are plenty of pools of various sizes, from swimming pools to kiddie pools. Some pools even have slides and water features.

For adventurous travellers, you can try out their zipline course, ride around on an ATV, or go wall climbing. There is also a river that runs through the property for kayaking and canoeing. There are activities for all ages here, so this is a great stop for travelling families.

Cabanas and cottages are available to rent out, so you can spend the whole day swimming and trying out the different activities. There are snack bars and restaurants on the property and guests are also welcome to bring in their own food. After you pay for entrance, you can either pay separately for each activity or choose from their package deals.

This outdoor center makes a great addition to a 3-day itinerary in La Union.

Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Charity

• The present church was consecrated in 1978
• The architectural style of the church is Mexican-Baroque
• In the Philippines, there are 12 minor basilicas granted by the Vatican

The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Charity, also known as Agoo Basilica, is a Roman Catholic church. La Union is known for its beautiful historic churches, and this one is no exception.

The parish was founded in 1578, and the original constructed for the church followed shortly after. Unfortunately, earthquakes have caused the church to be destroyed and rebuilt several times. The present basilica as it stands today was constructed in 1978.

The facade of the building has a beautiful rose-colored stained glass window that stands in sharp contrast to the gray hue of the building. There are also two non-identical bell towers of different heights and sizes. The interior is beautifully detailed and designed, with a large statue of Our Lady of Charity serving as the focal point.

This beautiful basilica is free to enter. All guests are welcome to visit and enjoy some quiet time and peaceful reflection.

Staying Safe in La Union

Whether you’re planning a 2-day itinerary in La Union, or a 2-week itinerary, safety is always an important thing to keep in mind.

Generally speaking, La Union is a safe place to visit. The locals are very friendly and welcoming, and tourists usually encounter very few problems. The main precautions you’ll want to take stem from the outdoor elements.

La Union is filled with beautiful hiking paths, stunning waterfalls, and endless coastlines. Exploring nature can be fun, but there is a safe way to do it. Make sure to be prepared when you’re out exploring, with the right gear, a water bottle, and sunscreen. 

If you’re traveling solo, it’s probably best to keep to the more popular trails and beaches. Or, look into some fun day trips from La Union that you can enjoy in a group setting.

If you’re renting a motorbike, always wear a helmet. The roads can be slippery, especially during the rainy season. No drinking and driving, either! 

Lastly, if you’re new to surfing and want to rent out a board, it’s best to play it safe. Book a class with a professional instructor, or keep to the shallow waves. The waves can be stronger than they look, and that’s not something you want to battle with.

Don’t forget to sort your travel insurance! We’ve put together a roundup of the best travel insurance for backpackers, or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads now, our favourite travel insurance provider.

Day Trips From La Union

If you’re planning more than a 3-day itinerary in La Union, a day trip is a perfect activity to add to your vacation. We’ve included a few fun options that will allow you to explore other areas of the Philippines.

Bessang Pass Natural Park

Bessang Pass Natural Park is a national park and memorial that commemorates a victory by Flipino soldiers serving the U.S. Army on June 14, 1945. The victory led to Japan’s ultimate surrender and therefore the end of WWII in the Philippines.

The park is made up of pine forests and mossy forests. You can spend all day hiking in the mountains. If you make it to the top, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Make sure to bring your camera, you’ll get some great shots of nature.

The park is clean and well maintained, with bathroom facilities and a few shops that offer food and souvenirs. A small entrance fee is required to enter. This is the perfect day trip for travelers who enjoy history and nature.

La Trinidad, Benguet

La Trinidad is a municipality in the province of Benguet. This area offers some great attractions.

La Trinidad Strawberry Farm is a popular place for picking strawberries and other seasonal produce. Mt. Kalugong Cultural Village is a tiny village you can hike to. Along the way, you’ll see incredible rock formations and be rewarded with a lovely view of La Trinidad. 

The Valley of Colors is a very Instagram-worthy site. Here, you’ll find a colorful display of homes built on the side of a cliff. It’s totally unique and very visually stunning.

Tuba, Benguet

Tuba is a municipality in the province of Benguet known as the “Gateway to Baguio”. It’s a great area to enjoy outdoor, nature-related activities.

Mount Ulap is a popular grassy hiking peak with well-marked trails. It’s great for both beginners and seasoned hikers. The air on the mountain is cool and refreshing which makes hiking very enjoyable.

Gungal Rock is a stunning rock formation located near the second summit of Mt. Ulap. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A day trip to Tuba is the perfect activity for travelers who enjoy nature, especially hiking.

Antong Falls

Antong Falls is a nature preserve located in Sison, Pangasinan. It’s a lovely site for adventurists and nature lovers. Once you reach the entrance, you’ll need to hike for about 30-40 minutes to reach the falls. The trail that leads you there is very clearly marked.

The hike is a complete adventure and workout, and the reward at the end is a refreshing swim in a peaceful environment. The waterfall has several levels, with small pools scattered throughout the site. There are so many places to explore and just enjoy being one with nature.

Baguio, Benguet

Baguio, nicknamed, “The City of Pines,”  is a mountain town in the province of Benguet. It’s especially popular in the summer months due to its surprisingly cool weather.

The city’s most popular attraction is Burnham Park. This large urban space is made up of 12 different areas. A few of the more popular areas include the skating rink, rose garden, picnic grove, and children’s playground.

The Baguio City (Wet & Dry) Public Market is another must-see attraction in Baguio. You’ll find all sorts of local goods at this market, including souvenirs, fresh produce, coffee beans, and more.

Conclusion of Your La Union Travel Guide

That wraps up our La Union travel guide! As you’ve now discovered, this laid-back Philippines province has a little bit of everything. You can spend hours having fun at the beach, then take a break to visit the unique cultural and historical sites found throughout the area.

Trek through the jungle in search of waterfalls. Explore crumbling ruins and historic churches. Delight in the delectable Filipino cuisine and refreshing tropical drinks. Take an exciting day trip to a nearby town. There are so many fun ways to fill your time.

With the warm weather and warm water year-round, there’s never a bad time to plan a visit. A vacation in La Union is one you won’t forget!

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