How to get to San Juan La Union

Known as the Surfing Capital of the North, San Juan La Union is the closest surfing spot to Manila. I tried to visit on August 2018 which was a lean season. The main attraction is surfing, then next is food.

HOW TO GET THERE

Travelling to La Union from Manila is easy. It takes about 6hrs if you take the public transportation(Partas/Five Star) and 5hrs by private car. You can book a ticket at biyaheroes.com or buy a ticket on the spot, the seats are limited so I think the first one is safer.

I booked a bus ticket a week early before the trip and the First Class Express ticket costs me 541php from Pasay to San Fernando, La Union. Take note that this is Partas transportation, just beside Five Star Terminal. 

I chose San Fernando because it has departure time of 5am. Alternatively, you can choose Laoag, Vigan or Sebay, depending on your preferred departure time. These trips will pass along San Juan area.

When I arrived at the terminal, I was surprised to see that there were only 3 of us passengers riding the bus. (Yas!) I later then realized that the other two were bus employees headed to La Union terminal. It felt like I rented the whole bus. It was clean and comfortable and definitely recommended. Before we reached San Fernando, I asked the conductor if they can drop me off at Flotsam and Jetsam and they did!

Well, if they do not drop you off at your main destination point, you can ride a tricycle(50php) or a jeepney(11php) from San Fernando terminal.

The schedule going back to Pasay from San Fernando Partas terminal is 3PM-7PM (regular First class, 453php, if i remember it correctly.) I did no prior booking.

THINGS TO BRING

• Sunblock(the most important thing to protect you from sunburn or any harmful effects of the sun)
• Neck pillow(your neck will thank you later)
• Changing clothes
• Rashguard/swimsuit or any surfing outfit
• Toiletries(for your convenience)
• Pocket money- their food can cost you 200-300 per meal. 

These are just the essentials. No need to overpack if you’re commuting by bus. 

WHERE TO STAY

Flotsam & Jetsam

I stayed at Flotsam and Jetsam coz they have this hippie vibe. I booked from their website (flotsamandjetsamhostel.com) a week before my trip. The rate for 4-bed AC Room is 1,280/bed.

Got this room to myself.

My bunk

Common area (sink, toilet, ladies bathroom & common bathroom)

The place is clean, cozy and usually quiet on weekdays(except Friday.) 

Resting hut

KitchenBar

Breakfast buffet

They offer free breakfast like bread, cereals and coffee, enough to energize you in the morning. Try their lunch or dinner, the foods and drinks here are excellent!

You can find another hostel, transient house or hotel around San Juan if you like other options.