Things To Do
in San Fernando
San Fernando, officially the City of San Fernando, is the capital of La Union province in the Ilocos Region of the Philippines. Located on the coastal plain along the region's northwest coast, it serves as a gateway to La Union's beaches, rice fields, and heritage towns. The city blends historic churches, markets, and a laid-back vibe with easy access to nearby surf towns like San Juan.
It’s a compact, walkable hub ideal for food, culture, and day trips to nature spots nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Fernando Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. After taking in the sights, stroll through the nearby Plaza de la Ciudad, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and local art installations. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, sampling the delicious longganisa sausages.
In the afternoon, visit the Bahay na Bato, a museum that showcases the culture and history of the region through its preserved artifacts. Explore the streets lined with historic homes and colonial architecture, capturing the essence of San Fernando's past. As you walk, take a break at a local café for some refreshing halo-halo, a popular Filipino dessert.
As the sun sets, head to the San Fernando Night Market, where you can find an array of local street food and artisan crafts. Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Wrap up your evening by trying some fresh seafood dishes, grilled right in front of you.
Kick off your beach day at San Juan Beach, known for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the beautiful coastline and get close to the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café, indulging in fresh fruits and refreshing smoothies.
After some sun and fun, join a surfing lesson with local instructors who will guide you through the basics of riding the waves. Spend the afternoon catching waves and enjoying the thrill of surfing in one of the country's top surfing destinations. For lunch, savor some grilled seafood and local favorites at a nearby beachfront restaurant.
As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the stunning sunset views over the ocean. Find a cozy spot at a beach bar and relax with a cocktail while listening to live music. Finish your evening with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🧋Milk tea or coffee | $1-3 |
| 💧Water bottle (0.5-1 L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible from Manila and nearby towns; good value for money.
- Friendly locals with rich Ilocano culture and welcoming hospitality.
- Proximity to beaches, waterfalls, and nature spots for day trips.
- Limited nightlife within the city itself; more vibrant options require travel to nearby towns.
- Some areas can be crowded during peak season and fiestas.
- Traffic can slow down during market days and holiday events.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat" - Thank you.
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pakiusap" - Please
Places to Visit in San Fernando
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shore with golden hour light and silhouettes of fishermen; ideal for long exposure and landscape photography.
Colorful local life and boats along the riverfront provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
A scenic waterfall reachable via a short hike, with lush forest surroundings and a refreshing pool.
Dramatic skies over the Pacific with surfers and boats for dynamic sunset shots.
Food in San Fernando
San Fernando Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy Ilocano pork belly; commonly found in local eateries and carinderias, best enjoyed with even a splash of suka (vinegar) and bagoong for dipping.
Must-Try!
A vegetable-forward Ilocano dish typically cooked with bagoong and finished with grilled or fried fish; a staple in many households and restaurants.
A light eggplant and egg scramble flavored with garlic and onions; a common summer dish served with rice.
Garlic-infused sausage with a tangy note; pair with garlic rice for a classic breakfast or morning snack.
A savory pastry filled with vegetables and egg; widely sold by street vendors and snack stalls in coastal towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, seafood, and ready-to-eat street foods; look for bagnet bites, grilled seafood, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say thank you (salamat) or gracias; address elders with po and opo in conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in public places; ask before taking photos of people, especially children.
Safety
Tipping in San Fernando
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% is common in nicer restaurants, while street food vendors typically do not expect tips.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards and mobile wallets; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry conditions make it ideal for beach days and outdoor activities; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat to beat the sun.
June to October brings humidity and frequent showers; plan flexible outdoor plans and bring a light rain jacket.
San Fernando at Night
Hiking in San Fernando
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular waterfall near San Gabriel, reachable by a short hike through lush forest.
Coastal viewpoints with modest trails and scenic overlooks along the coast near Luna and neighboring towns.
Airports
How to reach San Fernando by plane.
Major international gateway in the region; roughly 150-200 km from San Fernando with road access via SCTEx and major highways.
Primary national hub; longer drive to La Union but frequent flights; accessible by bus, car, or airport shuttles.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Ilocano-speaking residents with Tagalog and English widely understood.
A mix of local families, students from nearby colleges, and seasonal tourists.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, barangay courts, and community centers.
La Union's surfing scene is famous for beginner-friendly waves and multiple surf schools along the San Juan coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Fernando.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can navigate by choosing vegetable-heavy dishes, tofu or mushroom options, and requesting no fish sauce or bagoong; most places will accommodate if asked.