Things To Do
in Aringay
Aringay is a tranquil river town in La Union that blends agricultural heritage with gateway access to La Union’s northern coast. Nestled along the Aringay River and the Cordillera foothills, its landscapes feature lush rice fields and rural charm. The town serves as a laid-back base for exploring nearby beaches, markets, and nature trails in the region.
Visitors will find warm hospitality, easy day trips, and a slower pace that highlights local life in northern Luzon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic San Juan Bautista Church, an architectural gem dating back to the Spanish colonial period. Admire the intricate details of its façade and take a moment to reflect in the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the nearby plaza, where local vendors offer a glimpse of daily life in Aringay.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional Ilocano dishes such as 'pinakbet' and 'bagnet'. Once re-energized, embark on a guided tour of the town's historical landmarks, including the old municipal building and the remnants of colonial houses. Capture photographs of the unique blend of old and new, as the town embraces its rich heritage.
As the sun sets, head to a local café for a taste of the famous Aringay longganisa paired with a refreshing drink. Engage in conversation with friendly locals who are eager to share stories about the town's past. Wrap up the day by enjoying a leisurely walk along the main street, illuminated by soft lights and bustling with evening activity.
Kick off your beach day with a visit to the stunning Bauang Beach, just a short drive from Aringay. Feel the soft sand between your toes as you enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Take part in beach volleyball or simply relax under the sun with a good book.
After a morning of sun and surf, indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, savoring fresh catch of the day. Spend the afternoon trying out water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, or parasailing, soaking up the thrill and exhilaration. Don't forget to capture the stunning views of the coastline from the water.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the breathtaking sunset over the horizon. Enjoy a beach bonfire with friends, sharing stories and enjoying grilled snacks. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the shore, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍜Mid-range dinner for two | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local transport short ride | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, friendly town with genuine hospitality
- Excellent base for exploring both La Union’s coast and Cordillera foothills
- Abundant fresh produce and traditional Ilocano flavors
- Limited nightlife within Aringay itself
- Rural roads can be slower and weather-dependent during the rainy season
- "Kumusta po?" - How are you? (polite)
- "Salamat po." - Thank you.
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang CR?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Pakiusap, tulungan mo ako." - Please help me.
- "Opo." - Yes (polite).
Places to Visit in Aringay
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on calm water with silhouettes of rice fields and distant hills.
Geometric patterns of paddies, especially dramatic during planting or harvest seasons.
Colonial-era plaza with palm-lined walkways, locals at market stalls, and street scene photography.
Quiet, shaded spaces with architectural details and age-old charm.
Food in Aringay
Aringay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vegetable stew with bagoong and a mix of local produce like squash, eggplant, and okra.
Must-Try!
Crispy deep-fried pork belly, a regional Ilocano specialty often served with rice and bagoong.
A light vegetable dish with fried fish or bagoong and a tangy, savory broth.
Eggplant-based dish with eggs, tomatoes, and herbs; comforting and vegetarian-friendly.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, seafood, rice, and ready-to-eat snacks—great for sampling everyday flavors.
Larger market where you can find Ilocano street foods, grilled fare, and seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use courteous language and, when addressing elders, include po/opo to show respect.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals or families.
Safety
Tipping in Aringay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; 5-10% in restaurants if no service charge is included. Small tips for good service in markets or street stalls are appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; many small shops operate on cash. In towns and larger establishments, cards are increasingly accepted, and ATMs are common in La Union's larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry days; ideal for river trips and outdoor exploring, but stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Frequent showers and humidity; plan for quick shelter options and rain gear; travel may be disrupted by storms.
Pleasant temperatures and clearer skies; great for outdoor sightseeing and longer walks.
Aringay at Night
Hiking in Aringay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes offering river and mountain views, accessible from multiple La Union towns.
Airports
How to reach Aringay by plane.
Major gateway in Pampanga; drive times vary with traffic to La Union.
Northern gateway in Ilocos Norte; access to La Union via road and bus services.
Primary Manila airport with connections to regional hubs like CRK and Laoag for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Ilocano communities with Filipino and Tagalog-speaking residents; strong agricultural livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in schools and neighborhoods.
La Union’s coast, especially San Juan, is famous for surfing and related activities.
Common in schools, barangays, and beach areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aringay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many areas offer vegetable-centric options like pinakbet, dinengdeng, and ilocano-tamales; request vegetable-based dishes and bagoong-free preparations when needed.