Urbiztondo in San Juan is considered a surfing hub. Its waters are considered suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Popular activities include surfing, swimming, sunbathing, visiting bars and dining.
Surfing, Coast and Nature
Another side of the coast can be seen at the Agoo-Damortis Protected Landscape and Seascape. The protected area was established in 2000 to protect 10,648.94 hectares (26,314.1 acres) of coastal land. It includes mangrove swamps, seagrass beds and stretches of fine black-sand beaches. These diverse habitats provide a striking contrast to the surfing scene in Urbiztondo.
In Agoo, Agoo Eco-Fun World adds more activities to the nature experience. It was launched on December 8, 2013, during the municipality’s 435th founding anniversary. Activities include boat rides on Lake Sta. Rita, bike paths and bicycle rentals, as well as rides in a carabao-drawn cart. The grounds also include a picnic and camping area, along with bamboo and nipa huts.
Waterfalls, Lagoon and Bike Paths
Visiting Tangadan Falls requires a 30- to 60-minute hike. Visitors can also cliff-jump at the waterfall; the activity is especially popular with adventure seekers. Immuki Island offers a different setting: its lagoon resembles a natural swimming pool and is suitable for swimming, diving and picnicking. This presents a choice between a hike with a waterfall and cliff-jumping, or a lagoon with several possible activities.
Cycling enthusiasts will also find different options. A cycling tourism route follows the San Juan By-Pass Road to the ELYUnity Mountain Bike Trails in Barangay Baraoas, San Fernando City. During the launch of bicycle and nature trail tourism, a beginner-friendly bike trail was also presented at Agoo Eco Park. Check current trail conditions before planning a specific ride.
Culture, Gardens and Maritime History
In San Fernando City, the one-hectare Taoist Ma-Cho Temple is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Chinese cultural presentations are among the popular activities; check their schedules before visiting. Poro Point Lighthouse has served as a navigational aid since 1885. Pennsylvania Avenue is listed as the access road.
La Union Botanical Garden is home to plants from tropical regions around the world, many of them native to the Philippines. In Agoo, Museo de Iloko is one of the surviving structures from the province’s American colonial period. It is known for its collection of artifacts and other objects of cultural significance to the Ilocanos.
Buildings and history also tell of the province’s varied facets. The Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan houses the image of Our Lady of Namacpacan, described as miraculous, and preserves its original walls made of centuries-old bricks and stones. Philippine wine production began in Bauang in 1972, with Lomboy Farm regarded as a pioneering vineyard.
Discover more destinations: Caba, Pangasinán, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur.
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