A Close Visit to La Union | Surfing the Horizons

From a province usually passed by until I get the chance to have a closer look of this "Surfing Capital of Ilocos Region". 

Tourists flocked at the shore of Luna, La Union in the Baluarte Watchtower overlooking the sea.

La Union is a province located at Ilocos Region, noted for its surfing spots, old churches, grape vines, and red clay pottery. It is the gateway going to Ilocandia, being the first province passed by travelers for those who are going to Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, and Abra. Furthermore, I have a chance to visit last December 2024, although I passed it in this province in 2018 which is the usual route going to Ilocos Provinces.

Baluarte Watchtower in Luna is one of the old Spanish lighthouses in the province
while other old lighthouses are just ruins found in towns in La Union including Balaoan,
Bacnotan,San Fernando, and San Juan.

The old brick watchtower is one of the tourist attractions in La Union.

There are few sites that I visited in this province. First, the Baluarte Watchtower located in the town of Luna, which was built during the Spanish era. It was intended to guard the shores against pirates and Muslim invaders during the Spanish colonization and it served as a communication tower post for Filipino and American armed forces during the World War II. 

The circular interior of Baluarte Watchtower. 

Due to the quarrying within the tower' site, the coastline receded, and the sea waves damaged the foundation of the tower. Furthermore, efforts are made to preserve the ruins of Baluarte Watchtower, and it served as a tourist spot for those who visit the province. 

A warning sign indicating dangerous waves for safe swimming and surfing.

The strong blue waves of La Union which makes the province one of the prominent surfing capitals.

Where the ocean meets the shore. An ideal time to swim to enjoy the stay in the province. 

Moreover, the beach resorts and surfing spots of La Union truly make this visit a memorable one. Simply enjoying the strong, foamy waves of the blue sea. Furthermore, the province is also rich in aquatic resources which can be a source of food and livelihood for the residents. 

Sunset in San Juan, La Union as it signals another evening for parties and night life. 

Other activities in La Union that you can enjoy including church visits, nature trips in forests and waterfalls, grapes picking, buying of dried fish and local delicacies, and enjoying the nightlife. 

Therefore, La Union is a place which you can come back for more - exploring the history, enjoying the surfing and beach parties, and appreciating the nature. 

Date of Travel: December 20-21, 2024