San Juan Beach — Attraction in Luzon

Often called the Surfing Capital of the North, San Juan is renowned for its consistent waves suitable for beginners and advanced surfers alike .

The atmosphere blends relaxed beachside vibes with a vibrant surf culture, lined with surf schools, bars, restaurants, and cafes .

🏄‍♂️ Surfing & Beach Activities

Surf lessons typically cost around ₱400/hour (including board and instructor); board rental alone is ₱200/hour or ₱500–₱800/day .

The ideal surfing season runs from October to March, with most swells occurring in November through March .

Best surf spots:

Urbiztondo Beach (beach break): ideal for beginners and most visitors.

Monaliza Point (right-hand point break): suited for intermediate surfers.

Carrile Point (long reef break): advanced surfers only due to fast waves and sharp reefs .

🌅 Vibe & Surroundings

Visitors praise stunning sunsets, especially over the West Philippine Sea as the beach faces west .

Despite occasional crowds during peak season, the beach retains a clean and relaxed ambiance—though some reviewers note rocky shorelines that aren’t ideal for leisurely swimming .

Nightlife is energetic and diverse, with bars clustered along the beach that come alive after sunset .

🍽 Food, Drinks & Entertainment

Fans of beachside dining and nightlife will find plenty to enjoy:

Popular spots include Flotsam & Jetsam, Tavern by the Sea, Surf Shack, Mad Monkey, Olas Banditos, and El Union Coffee—famous for its dirty horchata coffee drink .

The evening scene is lively with live music, casual dining, and cocktails by the sea .

🚍 Getting There

From Manila (about 6 hours):

Take buses (Partas, Dominion, Viron, etc.) bound for Laoag, Vigan, or San Fernando; for Urbiztondo, ask to be dropped off there directly .

Alternatively, get off at San Fernando, then ride a jeepney or tricycle to San Juan (~₱100–₱15) .

🏘 Accommodation Tips

Most accommodations are centered around Urbiztondo Beach, from hostels to boutique surf resorts .

Staying in San Juan is more convenient—especially at night—than lodging in San Fernando due to limited evening transportation options .

During high season or holidays, pre-booking is...

Yes I know that this palce has a lot to offer in terms of accomodation, activities, food and drinks. But, I'm sticking to giving it a 2-star for the the things it lacks. This place LACKS public restrooms not even a portalet/portapottie in sight for a 3-day event. **IF YOU'RE EATING RIGHT NOW, STOP READING. I can testify to this and even show you the evidence lying around in some remote areas of the palce. Or, I can just drop a pin on Google maps. We went there on the last day of #summerbreak8 and the host/band vocals never failed to remind the guest to keep San Juan Beach clean. I just think the reponsibility to keep it clean goes bothways. Guests and organizers alike.

*I was told by a friend later that a hostel here will let you use their facility for php100. I just hope this was not the reason why such facilities were not provided. **A public shower would also be nice. *I'll definitely go back to this place and give it a chance to prove it's 5-star worthy. Luckily Google maps allow you to change...

This is my first time going in La Union beach, to be honest and this beach is a gem! The combination of sands and not so clear waters creates an ideal setting for relaxation and adventure. The beach is clean and well-kept, offering a great space for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun.

The local vibe is vibrant yet laid-back, with friendly locals and a range of charming cafes and surf shops nearby. Whether you're looking to catch some waves, enjoy a beachside meal, or just unwind, San Juan Beach has it all. The sunsets here are breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for evening strolls. I had an amazing time and highly recommend San Juan Beach for anyone seeking a beautiful and welcoming...