San Juan, La Union

Hello, beautiful soul! Are you ready to catch some waves, show your skin, get tanned and bathe under the sun? I hope you’re as stoked as me; summer is here and I’ve stocked up my one-piece and bikinis (I admit I went overboard in hoarding swimmies this time). Amidst the thrill of letting loose while sand clings in between your toes and your lips feel plump because of the salt in the air, planning a summer getaway could be a little stressful. Especially so for those who have little to no patience at all for travelling and long drives. San Juan, La Union, particularly barangay Urbiztondo, was dubbed as the Surfing Capital of the North. It’s a 5-hour drive from Manila, 2 hours from Baguio City, and approximately 4 hours from Laoag City. San Juan, La Union is situated between the town of Bacnotan and the City of San Fernando.

Reminiscing The Old Surf Town

I remember the Urbiztondo area before it became what it is today – simple, laid-back, less tourists and dang, was it a sight to see. The surfing area before was a contrast. The full stretch of the dark blue sea and the calming foam of each dying waves could be seen from the road, and the mountains on the opposite side was a lush of green, of vines, trees and shrubs of different kinds. I was always looking forward to pass that road. Morning or night, the reflection of the sunset or the full moon over the vast open sea was unlike any other.

Only a few resorts were existing then, but commercialization came and a lot of resorts were put up, including restaurants and pubs obstructing the view of the sea from the road. The surfing area has now evolved into a well-known tourist destination, a perfect place to chill and hangout, and a bounty of diverse mouth-watering eats.

If you haven’t planned your weekend getaway, haven’t been to Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, or having second thoughts of coming back, here are the reasons why this place should be forever on your summer list.

1. Food

Italian, Mexican, Greek, and Vietnamese – you name it. Indulge in savory international cuisines with a mix of locally-produced food with a homemade taste. Here are some shots of awesome finds.

I promise to take more flatlays of food. If… I remember.

2. People

The surfing area is packed with tourists and locals, and servers and waiters with A+ pleasing personalities. It’s very easy to strike a conversation (owe that confidence to alcohol lol). If ever you’re new to the place, don’t fret because getting around is very easy. If you think you’re lost, people are kind enough to tell you directions for your whereabouts.

3. Scenery

First, there’s the sky, the setting sun, the vast sea, and people on their surfboards floating while waiting to catch a wave. Then there’s the sand, sea foam, tanned and sunkissed skin and every coming and going of waves. Every second passing is a sight to behold. Surely, a feast for the eyes.

4. Vibe

No picture or words is enough to suffice this one. There’s just always a warm feeling caught between nostalgia and a warm welcome. So, whenever I’m stressed either from work or life, in general, this is always at the top of my list. I personally find the sea therapeutic. Mix it with reggae songs and coconuts with a teeny-bit of alcohol. Ahhh, yes.

*shaka*

5. Party

I grew up attending beach parties. Summer Break is one of the famous parties in Urbiztondo. It is usually held during the holy week. Ont the other hand, Halloween time would mean it’s time for another famous party which is Surf Break. Moreover, there are also parties within each pub or restaurants on weekends specially Saturday night. This coming Holy Week, March 29-31, 2018, the San Juan Resort Restaurant and Hotel Association (SJRRHASS) will be holding a big party – Summer Break 8. Local bands will perform and this could be the perfect time to unwind this coming long weekend. Did I forget to mention that this is a free beach party? I say yes to that!

Thank you for taking your time to read my post! I’m thinking about doing a post about my top 10 eats in San Juan. If you have any suggestions, feel free to comment it down below!