Make your way to La Union’s tourist spots, dubbed as the surfing capital of the northern Philippines. Explore nature, history, and culture rolled into one in this beautiful province.
La Union is one of the best surfing spots in the country. Every summer, thousands of local and foreign visitors troop to its beaches to ride its magnificent waves and enjoy the scenery. But La Union is way more than that.
Unknown to many, La Union hides numerous tourist attractions on its sleeves. Take note. Most of the destinations listed in this article are eco-based and off beaten.
Feel free to recommend some tourist spots in La Union that you’ve visited!
Quick Facts
- Location: Region I/ Ilocos Region
- Municipalities: 19
- Capital: San Fernando City
- Major Languages: Ilocano, Filipino, English, Pangasinan, Kan-kanaey
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!
Behold La Union Tourist Spots
1. Tangadan Falls
Tangadan Falls is one of the most popular eco-based tourist spots in San Juan, La Union. It’s crystal-clear and chilly waters provide a perfect respite for both locals and travelers during summer.
Tangadan Falls has three layers, each with a beautiful pool to offer. The first layer is the highest, measuring around 40 feet high.
If you’re looking for a thrill, you can jump from one of the surrounding cliffs towards the deep part of the pools. Just make sure you know how to swim.
- Entrance Fee: Php 30 per person
- Guide Fee: Php 500 for a group with a maximum of five persons
- Primary Jump-off Point: San Juan, La Union
- Trekking Time: 1 hour
- Opening Time: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
2. Ma Cho Temple
The Ma Cho Temple caters to the small Taoist community of San Fernando. It was built in 1975 in dedication to the Chinese goddess Matzu, known as the protector of the sea. That’s why the temple sits facing the sea.
Numerous Buddha statues of different sizes surround the temple. There are also groves of mango trees. You’re lucky if you arrived during the fruiting season since you can pick fruits for keep.
The temple is one of the best tourist spots in San Fernando, La Union.
- Location/Jump-off: San Fernando, La Union
- Entrance Fee: None
3. Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach is one of the best tourist spots in La Union. Pebbles of different sizes cover a long stretch of the beach.
Therefore, don’t expect fine and powdery sands when you come here. Still, it is a beautiful sight to see especially if you come here during the early morning and late afternoon. I’m talking of spectacular sunrise and sunset.
Make sure you are a trained swimmer before plunging into the waters. The waves are strong here and can easily pull you to the deepest parts. If you’re not careful, things may go wrong.
Always have an expert swimmer on the lookout if you want to swim here.
- Location/Jump-Off: Bacnotan, Balaoan Road, Luna, La Union
- Travel Time: 45 minutes via jeep from San Fernando
READ: Pebble Beach (DIY GUIDE): How to Get There
4. Tapuakan River
Tapuakan River is one of the remotest tourist spots in La Union. Both locals and travelers love coming here because of its pristine waters, emanating from the grand mountains of the Cordillera region.
It is one of the cleanest inland bodies of water in the province. It’s a perfect getaway for those who want to cool off and escape the simmering midday heat.
The surrounding vegetation and the white rocks and boulders all along are added sights to see. If you’re lucky, you can spot fishes and crabs in the clear waters.
But don’t attempt to catch them. Leave them where they are. That’s one way for you to help in the river’s conservation.
If you’re a good swimmer, there are several deep pockets of pools where you can jump or dive into it.
- Location/Jump-Off: Pugo, La Union
5. Lotus Valley Farm
If you’re looking for a rustic paradise, then you should visit Lotus Valley Farm. It is one of the least known tourist spots in San Juan, La Union. But if you’re a nature lover who prefers off-beaten tracks, then this is it!
The Lotus Valley Farm is not a typical farm where you can find rows of trees or crops. It is a forest farm composed of thousands of flora and fauna species, all integrated naturally in a self-sustaining ecosystem.
Here, you can find several bamboo species, orchids, various fruit tree species, rare grasses, vegetables, rice, and many more. Oh, the farm also hosts enchanting Lotus flowers!
Mind you. The crops grown here are all organic!
If you plan to have an overnight stay, there are cottages which you can rent for Php 5000 to Php 6000.
The owner of the forest farm is Mr. Toby Tamayo, a recognized beekeeper, and permaculture practitioner. Sit with him, and you’ll hear a lot of exciting stories about the farm.
- Location/Jump-Off: San Juan, La Union
- Entrance Fee: None
6. Grape Farms
What most of us know is that the grapes we have in the market are imported. But not all.
If you go to Baung, La Union, you’ll have all the time to pick fresh grapes. There are several farms in the area. During weekends and holidays, these usually become crowded.
You can visit all the farms at the same time. Of course, there are differences in terms of the entrance fees and the rates of the grapes. The local officials of Bauang are promoting the farms as agricultural tourist spots in La Union.
- Location/Jump-off: Bauang, La Union
- Entrance Fee: Php 100 and Php 150 for grape picking
- Opening Time: Monday to Saturday (7:00 AM to 4:00 PM) Sunday (7:00 AM to 3 PM)
- Contact: 072 7052 105
7. Balay Anito Falls
“Balay Anito” locally means the dwelling of the spirits. That falls is named as such because spirits are said to inhabit the falls. Thus, visitors are advised to offers prayers when coming here.
The falls has a 20-meter deep natural pool where you can take a plunge to relieve yourself from the simmering midday heat. It is one of La Union’s best tourist spots.
- Location/Jump-off: Lettac Sur, Santol, La Union
- Opening Time: Every day
- Entrance Fee: None
8. Tuddingan Falls
Formerly known as Burayok falls, Tuddingan falls is one of the most accessible falls in La Union. It’s just around seven kilometers away from the town center.
Getting here involves a generally easy trek except for a 700-meter paved pathway, which you need to conquer before catching sight of the falls.
But fret not. Patches of forests line the trail, and from to time, you may catch sight of beautiful birds chirping and leaping. Tuddingan falls measures around 70 feet and cascades like drizzles on a beautifully-layered strata rocks.
It has a naturally-built catch basin with crystal-clear and cold waters, which provide an instant and soothing relief.
- Entrance Fee: None
- Jump-Off Point: Brgy Tuddingan, Naguilian, La Union
- Best Time to Visit: July to December
9. Pagoda Hill
San Fernando City maybe a sprawling urban metropolis. But it does have sites where you can unwind and chill. Such is the Pagoda Hill. From here, you’ll catch a spectacular view of San Fernando City and the vast ocean.
Pagoda Hill is also called the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Park because it celebrates the bonds and friendship between the Filipinos and the Chinese people.
It’s best to come here during late afternoon so you can chance on a stunning view of the sunset. During the night, you can see the beautiful lights of the city.
- Location/Jump-Off: San Fernando, La Union
- Entrance Fee: None
10. Bulalakaw Falls
Bulalakaw falls is one of the highest falls in La Union, measuring around 30-50 meters high. It has a serene and veneer pool with icy-cold and crystal-clear waters, providing rejuvenation.
About 500 meters away from the falls, you’ll catch a view of a beautiful river emanating from the mountains of the adjacent Cordillera region.
- Entrance fee: None
- Jump-Off Point: Sitio Santol, Brgy Alibangsay, Pugo, La Union
- Guide fee: Donation
- Best Time to Visit: July to December
11. Poro Point Lighthouse
Standing at the Poro Point Special Economic and Freeport Zone, the Poro Point Lighthouse is a century-old structure. Since the Spanish times, it served as a guiding light for seafarers and ships.
It is tangible proof of the busy marine activities in the olden times. To commemorate the landmark and its historical role, the “Sillag Festival of Lights” is conducted every May.
- Location/Jump-off: San Fernando, La Union
- Entrance Fee: None
- Opening Time: Every day
READ: Poro Point Lighthouse (UPDATED): Complete DIY Travel Guide
12. Occalong Falls
Occalong falls may not be as high as Tangadan falls or other prominent falls in La Union. But it does have unique features to offer. It measures around 10 feet high and cascades on a crystal-clear swimming pool. A beautiful forest surrounds the falls, giving it a rustic and scenic view.
If you prefer an off-beaten track, Occalong falls should make up to your La Union bucket list. There are a couple of cottages that you can rent for a minimal fee. It would be best to bring your meals when coming here.
- Entrance Fee: Php 10
- Location/Jump-off: Luna, La Union
- Trekking Time: 15-20 minutes
13. Balay na Bato
The structure is aptly named “Balay na Bato” because it is made from the stones and pebbles collected along Luna’s beaches.
The municipality, after all, is the Pebble Capital of the North and stone-picking a major livelihood among the locals. Painted pebbles and wooden sculpture made by a Korean artist adorn the house’s interiors.
Because of its rustic and serene ambiance, people love to celebrate their weddings, baptisms, birthday parties, and other functions here.
Camping can also be done so you can have beautiful memories of stargazing. You can also listen and meditate along the seashore.
- Location/Jump-Off: Brgy Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union
- Entrance Fee: Php 30
14. Baluarte Watchtower
Baluarte Watchtower is one of the best historical tourist spots/destinations in La Union. Built during the pre-Spanish times, it served as a lookout point for attacks by pirates and other sea elements.
Because of its sheer size, guards were able to issue immediate warnings and calls for protection.
From this spot, you can glimpse of Luna’s pebbled beach. It is vertically cut in two and stands in disarray because of eroded base and foundation.
Despite its deteriorating condition, the locals take pride in it as a symbol of their unity and strength.
- Location/Jump-Off: Luna, La Union
15. Namacpacan Church
What to do in La Union for devotees? Check out this Church.
Namacpacan draws thousands of devout Catholics every year, making it an important pilgrimage site.
In the past, it served as a refuge for people escaping the brutality of the colonizers. Dedicated after Our Lady of Namacpacan, the site has witnessed miracles through the years.
According to the locals, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to the natives of the Cordillera.
- Location/Jump-Off: Luna, La Union
16. San Fernando Cathedral
Also called the Cathedral of St. William, the San Fernando Cathedral seats the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Fernando, La Union. Every 10, the municipality celebrates the feast of St. William.
- Location/Jump-Off: San Fernando, La Union
17. Bauang Beach
Considered one of the premier swimming tourist spots in La Union, Bauang Beach is set in the rugged landscape of northern Luzon. Several excellent resorts line the sandy beaches.
These beaches offer a magnificent view of the sea and crystal-clear waters, which also serves as a fishing ground for the locals.
Among the activities, you can do here are surfing, boating, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, and different land activities.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Taberna, Bauang, La Union
18. Christ the Redeemer Statue
This 25-feet statue sits at the Reservoir Hill and overlooks San Fernando City and the surrounding bay. Every Good Friday, a procession commences from St. William’s Cathedral towards the statue.
- Location/Jump-Off: San Fernando, La Union
- Opening Time: Every day
- Entrance Fee: None
19. Shrine of Our Lady of Charity
Because of reported miracles and wonders, thousands of Ilocano pilgrims troop to venerate the image of Our Lady of Charity. It dates back to the 17th century and has been attributed to the protection of crops in the region.
- Location/Jump-off: Agoo, La Union
- Entrance Fee: None
20. Urbiztundo Beach
Urbiztundo Beach is the primary surfing spot in La Union. It’s also a good spot to learn the sport as there are different schools and surfing camps teaching newbies.
If you’re chasing food and nightlife, this is also one of the best in La Union. You’ll have an endless option here.
- Location/Jump-off: San Juan
- Entrance Fee: None
- Best time to Visit: July to October (South Swell) and November to March (North Swell)
21. Loslosi Falls
Loslosi Falls is one of the highest cascades in La Union. But it’s a hit and miss. During summer, it is reduced to trickles but when it rains, it becomes a roaring beauty. It has four layers and the highest of which is around 80 meters high. It is one of the off-beaten tourist spots in La Union.
- Location/Jump-off: Sitio Nangalisan, Brgy Suyo, Bagulin
22. Simminublan Falls
Simminublan Falls is another beautiful spot in La Union that is less crowded. In fact, only locals mostly come here. If you’re into less touristy destinations, there’s just nothing like it here. Plus, you’ll get to experience the hospitality of the community folks.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Puguil, La Union
23. Bakes Spring/River
Emanating from pristine forests upstream, Bakes River has numerous pockets of pools with crystal-clear waters. Plunge on one of these and relish its healing and relaxing properties. The river is one of the emerging tourist destinations in La Union.
- Location/Jump-off: Santol
24. Tinag-Amerikano Falls
The waterfall is named as such because it’s where an American visitor accidentally fell. Thankfully, he survived to passed on his story. It is one of the numerous waterfalls found along the pristine Bakes River.
- Location/Jump-off: San Gabriel
25. Bacsil Ridge Historical Marker
Bacsil Ridge Historical Marker is one of the commemorated La Union tourist spots. Bacsil Ridge was one of the most famous battle sites during the Japanese invasion. The marker stands to celebrate the heroism of the soldiers who fought against the invaders.
- Location/Jump-off: F. Ortega Hwy, San Fernando
26. La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden
Where to go in La Union for a family getaway?
The garden sits on a twenty-hectare rolling landscape. It is a scientific garden, the first of its kind in the Philippines. Here, you’ll see various plant species that grow in tropical, subtropical, and desert climates. Enjoy learning the scientific names of each. You’ll also find a variety of wildlife species.
- Location/Jump-off: San Fernando
- Contact Number: (072) 888 6901
27. Bolikewkew Rice Terraces
You’ll not only find rice terraces in the Cordillera mountains. La Union’s hinterlands also have them including Bolikewkew Rice Terraces. Enjoy walking along them as you relish the rustic fragrance and the green sceneries. Visiting the rice terraces is one of the adventurous things to do in La Union.
- Location/Jump-off: Burgos
28. Immuki Island
Immuki Island is one of the fastest-growing tourist spots in La Union, a perfect respite from the daily bustles. Here, you’ll find several lagoons with turquoise waters and lush vegetation. Enjoy gazing at the endless ocean and its captivating waves.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Paraoir, Balaoan
29. Paraoir Man Made Forest
Feel like you want to act wild or be with the wild, visit Paraoir Man-Made Forest. Although man-made, some of the species here grew naturally. It is slowly turning into a haven for different wildlife species. It is one of the must-see tourist spots in La Union for nature lovers.
- Location/Jump-off: Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Rd, Balaoan
30. Darigayos Beach
Darigayos Beach stretches for more than 800 meters amidst blue waters. Unlike in most coastal areas of La Union, the beach has powdery white sands with colorful pebbles. It is one of the emerging tourist destinations in La Union.
- Location/Jump-off: Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Rd, Luna
- Cottage Rent: Php 200 to Php 500
Other Must-See La Union Tourist Spots
31. Coral Island Resort
- Location/Jump-off: Luna
32. Sto Domingo Sur Park
- Location/Jump-off: Luna
33. Amburayan River
- Location/Jump-off: Sudipen
34. Eagle of the North
- Location/Jump-off: Eagle of the North
35. PUGAD Pugo Adventure
- Location/Jump-off: Pugo
36. Taberna Beach
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Taberna, Bauang
37. Panicsican Beach
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Panicsican, San Juan, La Union
38. Canaoay Beach
- Location/Jump-off: San Fernando City, La Union
39. Carlatan Beach
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Carlatan, San Fernando City
40. Poro Point
- Location/Jump-off: San Fernando City, La Union
For Your Information
If you need more information to help set up your itinerary to the tourist spots in La Union, do contact the local tourism office via the following:
- Contact Number: (072) 888 6922
Hi, thank you for your guide, however, haven’t you visit Thunderbird Resort?
halu po…haven’t visited there po yet..thank you
Madali lang po ba yung transportation sa La Union? Hindi po ba kami mahihirapan puntahan yung bawat isa na lugar? Salamat po.
that depends po sir sa pupuntahan niyo…pg mga mga tourist spots within city proper, madali lng puntahan…pg mga outskirt destinations naman, usually, malimit ang transpo
Looks beautiful out there! Hope to go there someday. So much places to explore in Elyu.