Things To Do
in San Juan
San Juan, La Union is a laid-back coastal town in the Ilocos region, famed for its long sandy beach and surf-ready waves. The town blends a relaxed beach vibe with vibrant cafés, colorful murals, and casual dining along the shore. Visitors can easily mix surfing, sunsets, markets, and easy day trips to nearby waterfalls and viewpoints.
With its friendly locals and a growing scene of boutique accommodations, San Juan offers both laid-back days and lively evenings for travelers seeking sun, sea, and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the San Juan Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and rich history. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the colonial-era buildings and vibrant local shops. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Filipino breakfast, perhaps sampling longganisa and garlic rice.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby San Juanico Bridge for breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, savoring freshly caught seafood dishes that reflect the region's culinary heritage. As the afternoon sun sets, take a guided tour of the local museum to learn more about San Juan's cultural significance.
As evening falls, head to the waterfront to experience the lively atmosphere of the local night market. Indulge in street food delicacies, from grilled skewers to sweet treats, while enjoying live music and entertainment. End your day with a stroll along the beach, listening to the calming sound of the waves.
Start your day at the beautiful Urbiztondo Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Join a morning yoga session on the beach to rejuvenate your body and mind before the day's activities begin. Afterward, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the stunning coastline and enjoy the tranquil sea.
After a refreshing swim, grab a bite to eat at a beachside café, where you can enjoy a variety of Filipino dishes with a view of the ocean. Spend the afternoon trying out thrilling water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides, perfect for adrenaline seekers. As the sun begins to dip, relax on the beach and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
As night falls, enjoy a beachfront bonfire, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories under the stars. Dine at a local seafood restaurant, delighting in the catch of the day while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the shore, watching the moonlight dance on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌1-way local transport | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent surfing on Long Beach
- Relaxed, friendly vibe with affordable prices
- Beautiful sunsets and photo opportunities
- Proximity to nature escapes (waterfalls and hiking)
- Rush-hour traffic can snarl roads on peak weekends
- Some areas have limited public transport options
- Occasional typhoons during the rainy season
- Varied quality of budget accommodations
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Pakiusap, tulungan mo ako" - Please help me
Places to Visit in San Juan
Visit one of these nice places.
A multi-kilometer stretch ideal for surfing action, golden hour sunsets, and expansive horizon shots.
Cliffside vantage with sea expanse; captures dramatic sunsets and blue-hour silhouettes.
Forest greenery and a cascading waterfall; a rewarding location for waterfall photography.
Palm silhouettes and colorful skies over gentle waves, perfect for portraits.
Food in San Juan
San Juan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy pork belly, a hallmark Ilocos dish; best enjoyed with suka and calamansi or on its own.
Must-Try!
Stewed vegetables with bagoong (fermented fish or shrimp paste); a staple vegetable dish.
Pork blood stew often served with white rice or puto.
Grilled pork belly commonly found at seaside eateries.
Fried pastry stuffed with eggs, vegetables, and meat available at street stalls in nearby towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, vegetables, and Ilocano ingredients; go early for the best catches.
Street stalls offering fried snacks, local sweets, and refreshing drinks along the beachfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings and deference to elders are valued in conversations.
Casual beachwear is fine at the shore; modest clothing is appreciated in town centers and religious sites.
Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas; ask before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in San Juan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in nicer restaurants; rounding up at casual places is common.
Cash is widely accepted; some venues take debit/credit cards; carry cash for markets and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with abundant sun; bring sunscreen and stay hydrated; great beach days and long hours of daylight.
Frequent showers and high humidity; expect occasional heavy rains and slick roads; plan flexible outdoor days.
Cooler evenings and good surfing swells; crowds are common on weekends; ideal shoulder-season for outdoor activity.
Mix of sunny days and rain; shoulder-season crowds with lower prices in some accommodations.
San Juan at Night
Hiking in San Juan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest hike leading to a scenic waterfall with photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach San Juan by plane.
Major airport about 150-200 km from San Juan; access by bus, private transfer, or car.
Main hub near Manila; long drive to La Union but frequent domestic connections.
Northern gateway; longer travel to La Union but convenient for northern Ilocos itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Fishing and farming communities with strong ties to the coast.
Young travelers attracted by surfing, cafés, and affordable stays.
Diverse mix drawn by beaches, cafes, and sunset views.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Primary regional sport; iconic waves attract a global crowd.
Casual beach games around the shore facilities.
Common in schools and community courts; often part of local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Juan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ilocano dishes are vegetable-forward; look for pinakbet, laing, or grilled vegetables and request no bagoong where possible.