Things To Do
in Bauang
Bauang is a laid-back coastal municipality in La Union province along Luzon's northwest coast. It features long sandy beaches, warm hospitality, and a relaxed seaside vibe ideal for travelers seeking a low-key escape. The area serves as a gateway to the wider La Union surf scene, including nearby San Juan.
Visitors come for beach days, seafood, and a friendly Filipino coastal atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Landing in Bauang early, you'll be greeted by golden sands and the sound of waves gently lapping the shore. Take time to settle into your beachfront accommodation and savor a cup of local brewed coffee while overlooking the sea. A refreshing dip in the calm waters will set a relaxing tone for the days ahead.
Head to a nearby seaside eatery for your first taste of fresh seafood and Ilocano specialties. After lunch, stroll along the shoreline and hunt for shells or try your hand at beachcombing. Engage with friendly locals who often set up makeshift stalls on the sand.
As the sun dips below the horizon, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness a vibrant tropical sunset. Dine at a beachside grill, sampling grilled fish and battered Calamansi chicken paired with cold San Miguel beer. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk under star-lit skies and the sound of waves as your soundtrack.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast of tupig and strong Ilocano coffee before heading to the waves. Join a local surf instructor who will guide you through the basics of riding the breakers. Feel the thrill as you stand on your board and catch your first wave on the expansive shoreline.
After working up an appetite, refuel with a plate of freshly grilled seafood and local vegetables at a beachside carinderia. Spend the short afternoon lounging under palm trees or challenging friends to a game of beach volleyball. If you prefer, take a second surf lesson to refine your new skills on the water.
Watch as the sky transforms into a watercolor canvas during sunset, painting the sea in hues of pink and orange. Savor a classic Ilocano dish of pinakbet paired with grilled bangus while listening to live acoustic music at a beachfront bar. Cap the evening with marshmallows roasted over a small bonfire and stories shared with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.5-2 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beachfront location with easy access to surfing towns
- Warm, friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Affordable food and lodging for travelers
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some areas have feweradvanced healthcare facilities nearby
- Occasional weather disruptions during the rainy season
- "Kamusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Saan ang bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
- "Pakiusap" - Please
- "Tulong!" - Help!
- "Kailan ang darating?" - When is arrival?
Places to Visit in Bauang
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive sandy shoreline and calm morning light ideal for long-exposure seascapes and vibrant colors.
Cliffside vantage with sweeping sea views, dramatic sunsets, and photo-worthy horizons.
Food in Bauang
Bauang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy Ilocos pork belly, often served with vinegar or a dipping sauce; a must-try when in the region.
Must-Try!
Ilocano vegetable stew cooked with squash, beans, and sometimes shrimp paste; flavorful and protein-light.
Eggplant-based dish with eggs, tomatoes, and onions; typically served with rice.
Garlic-infused cured sausages; commonly enjoyed with garlic fried rice and eggs.
Fried pastry filled with vegetables, eggs, and sometimes meat; a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, and local snacks; great for tasting everyday flavors.
Casual stalls along the beachfront offering fish balls, squid balls, banana cue, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings using 'po' and 'opo' when addressing elders; a friendly smile goes a long way.
Show deference in conversations; avoid raising voices in public and handle meals with a shared sense of courtesy.
Ask for consent before photographing people, especially in residential or sacred spaces.
Dress modestly in religious sites and markets; act considerately around fishermen and street vendors.
Safety
Tipping in Bauang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in sit-down restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards in larger establishments; mobile wallets are increasingly common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
October–March; cooler days, clearer skies, and generally gentler surf conditions; great for outdoor exploration and photography.
May–October; frequent showers and higher humidity; plan for sudden downpours and mud on trails.
March–May; hot, sunny days with strong beach visibility; stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Bauang at Night
Hiking in Bauang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular waterfall hike in nearby San Gabriel, combining a forest trail with a refreshing plunge pool.
Gentle hill routes in surrounding towns offering coastal views and sunset vistas.
Airports
How to reach Bauang by plane.
Approximately 100–150 miles away; international and domestic flights; best reached by land transport to La Union.
In Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; serves domestic flights and limited international connections; drive to Bauang is a few hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnicity and language; Ilocano culture and cuisine shape daily life.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to beaches and surfing.
Small but growing community attracted by affordable coastal living.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A hallmark of the La Union area; world-class waves in nearby San Juan attract surfers of all levels.
A popular local pastime with community games and informal courts throughout towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bauang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include pinakbet, laing, and vegetable stews; request no bagoong or ask for a vegetarian substitute when cooking.