Overview
San Fernando is the capital of La Union province on the northwest coast of Luzon, facing the South China Sea. The city serves as a gateway to popular surf beaches in nearby San Juan, while offering its own cultural attractions including the 7-story Ma-cho Temple, Poro Point's lighthouse and baywalk, and Spanish colonial church ruins.
Beach · Day Trips · History · Nature · Surfing
Before you go
Connectivity
Globe and Smart provide good 4G coverage. SIM cards available at malls. WiFi at most hotels and restaurants. Power: Type A/B plugs, 220V/60Hz.
Food
Ilocano cuisine features Bagnet and Pinakbet. Jollibee and other fast food chains are plentiful. Local restaurants on Rizal Avenue and Governor Luna Street offer budget meals for PHP 50-150.
Money
Philippine Peso (PHP) is the local currency. ATMs are available in the city center and at malls. Major credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants. Local markets and small eateries are cash-only.
Transport
Most visitors arrive by bus from Manila (6-8 hours). Partas and GV Florida Transport operate air-conditioned coaches from their Manila terminals. Local transport relies on jeepneys and tricycles.
Weather
Tropical climate with dry season from November to May. Surfing season runs September to March. March-May can be very hot (35°C+). Typhoon season peaks from July to October.