Philippines, La Union – The first time I visited La Union, I was 21. Everyone that I knew in my age already had their own stories from their weekend trip to the Surfing Capital of the North.. After a week of grueling exams, high-pressure deadlines, and tiresome work, the need to escape makes La Union or “LU” the place to be for a quick getaway. Just the thought of Urbiztondo Beach surrounded by cozy hostels, great food, and friends makes you want to drop everything and hit the waves. Even though it’s at least 4-5 hours away from the capital city of Manila, people flock to this strip of beach in San Juan, La Union – and it never disappoints.
A tourist and local favorite, LU adapted to its rising popularity a few years back by establishing numerous hostels and renting out houses to accommodate the increasing foot traffic. With these new establishments came the sudden influx of local businesses ranging from restaurants, souvenir shops, bars, and affordable services from surfing instructors and tour guides. With the variety of things-to-do, it’s normal nowadays to plan a trip to LU at least a day before departure during the off-peak season. If you ask someone if they want to go to LU tomorrow, they would probably say yes, no questions asked. You can both just hop on a bus bound to San Juan from Manila anytime you want, leaving your worries for the day after tomorrow.
During my first visit, my high school friend and I planned to stay for just 2 days. We departed early in the morning and arrived 3 hours before check-in. We were hungry, carrying heavy bags, and starting to get cranky because the hotel was a bit far from where we were dropped off. But once I saw the ocean and felt the cool breeze of the north, I just started walking mindlessly. The sand was deep and was a pain to traverse, but there was the ocean: people were surfing and simply relaxing on beach towels with a book or drink in hand.
Once we reached our accommodation, the Little Surfmaid Resort, I was quickly charmed by its villa-type look. The room we booked had a balcony facing the beach. I savored that moment of opening the balcony doors to see a vast stretch of sand and glistening water. Below, throw pillows and small tables were placed on beach mats with colorful lanterns hanging above. I instantly imagined myself hanging out there, drinking beer, and eating fries – which I did. I remember loving that balcony view until it was time to check out. It gave me a perfect view of what I loved seeing in LU. Each hostel and house has its perks, but the best one you should consider is its proximity to the beach.
The food in LU is also amazing. You’ll never run out of choices among the restaurants lined alongside MacArthur National Highway. The most popular ones are found at the Great Northwest Philippines Travel Stop & Viewing Deck in La Union (it’s a mouthful, I know). This food and lifestyle hub houses my favorite restaurant: Sabong Fried Chicken. If there’s one thing you should remember about food in LU, it’s that they have very large servings for a reasonable price. The Korean Soy Garlic flavored chicken of Sabong Fried Chicken will always be an essential meal whenever I’m in the city. Another must-try is the coffee being served at El Union Coffee. Because of the intense heat during summertime, a glass of Nitro Cold Brew from El Union Coffee is like finding water in an oasis. First-time visitors must not make the mistake of missing out on this local cafe!
There’s also 55 Tinta, which is the best place for a tattoo job if you’re feeling daring. There are also acai-based smoothie bowls being served at Makai Bowls for those looking for healthier options, craft beer, and llokano-inspired dishes at Surf Shack if you’re in the mood for local tastes. Tagpuan is also a prime spot for beach-goers, serving classic Filipino comfort food perfect for first bites.
But of course, what’s a trip to LU without experiencing Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel? This hostel is a difficult place to book, though. Why? Well, frequent visitors declare it as one of the best, if not the best, hostel in the area. At night, the place is packed with tourists and locals socializing and chugging the famous 5-minute drink that will leave you instantly buzzed. The artistic exterior decor of the place also exudes a chill vibe perfect for late-night hangouts. With the beach just a 5-minute walk away, Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel is the best place to raise a glass for a weekend well-spent.
There are still many places beyond the beach to visit in La Union, but Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan will always have you coming back. Whether you’re falling and flopping during your first surfing lesson (like me) or sleeping the day away on the sand, it’s all part of the reason why you went to LU in the first place: to escape and have fun. If you’re looking for a place that can ease your worries, then grab a surfboard and let the waves of La Union carry you away.