La Union | San Juan Beach Sundown

Lifeguard post at San Juan Beach
Lifeguard post at San Juan Beach
Lifeguard post at San Juan Beach

It’s easy to get lost in reverie when on the beach. The infinite swells and crashing waves has that hypnotic hook once gazed for merely seconds. This same trance-like state lingered for a moment as sundown sets upon the famed San Juan Beach of La Union. San Juan beach is a playground for both novice and veteran surfers. But for non surfers, it’s an ideal stretch to lounge or simply walk around.

Beach bonfire
Beach bonfire

San Juan Beach

It’s funny that I only got deeper appreciation of San Juan beach recently even if I had been there several times already. Probably because in the recent visits, I got to stay longer and wander. La Union in general had this fantastic feel good vibe reminiscent of its surf culture. There’s a growing number of interesting eats in the area, a developing art culture, and a good range of resorts along San Juan Beach. Having a little bit more time in our hands, it was manageable to just walk to these establishments whether on the beach or the parallel coastal road. The community here have an infectious down-to-earth demeanor, taking things along as they flow.

Along the crashing waves
Along the crashing waves

Soothing Sundown

I was with an adventurous bunch from Lakbay Norte on one of my recent visit. We got to stay a few days in La Union and in one of those days, it was simply chill time by the beach in the afternoon. We had marshmallows over fire, cold beer in hand and a few laughs with the company. Along with these is seeing the spectacular sundown at San Juan Beach. There were surfers, skim boarders, beachcombers and other people doing their own thing. Life is simple here which just makes things extra special.

Waves at play
Waves at play

Essential Info

From Manila, take any bus heading to Laoag, Vigan, Abra, Ilocos Sur or San Fernando, La Union. Travel time is 4-6 hours. Make sure to tell the conductor to drop you off at Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union. Partas, Viron, Genesis and Farinas buses pass by La Union.

Surfers and beach lovers
Surfers and beach lovers
Catching the sunset at San Juan Beach
Catching the sunset at San Juan Beach