Region 1 Philippines: Ilocos Provinces & Tourist Spots
Planning your next trip to the Philippines? Explore Region 1, Philippines, and discover the beauty of Luzon’s northwest coast. Region 1, also known as the Ilocos Region, is a treasure chest of scenic beaches, historic landmarks, and mouthwatering food trips. If you're into beach bumming, heritage walking, or hiking with dramatic views, Region 1 has something for you.
And yes, bring your IslaDry microfiber bath towel because you’ll need it more than you think.
What is in Region 1, Philippines?
Region 1 Philippines is made up of four provinces. These are Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage, iconic tourist spots, and long stretch of coastline perfect for sun, sea, and selfies. From the old-world charm of Vigan to the surfing waves of Elyu, Region 1 is the dream destination for every type of lakwatsero.
A Look at the Region 1 Map
Get familiar with the Region 1 map before you hit the road. This helps you plan your stops, especially if you’re doing the famous North Loop. Yup, that’s a thing! The loop takes you through Luzon’s most scenic routes. Expect beach resorts, waterfalls, and mountains along the way. Perfect for joiners tours or your barkada road trip.
Ilocos Norte: Northern Beauty and Big Waves
You asked, where to go in Ilocos Norte? Well, here’s your cheat sheet when going out of town near Manila.
Tourist Spots in Ilocos Norte
Ilocos Norte is packed with adventure. There’s the stunning Pagudpud beach, famous for its white sand and crystal water. Head to Blue Lagoon Pagudpud if you want that Instagram-perfect Santorini vibe. Speaking of Santorini, check out Vitalis Ilocos a.k.a. Santorini Ilocos. White and blue structures, overlooking the ocean — pang-K-drama feels!
Pagudpud Beach, Ilocos Norte
Explore the Bangui Windmills, then ride a 4x4 in the Paoay Sand Dunes. Don’t forget to drop by the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse and the old churches scattered all over the province.
Paoay Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte
Hotels and Resorts in Laoag City
Need a place to stay? Tons of cozy and budget-friendly options from homestays to Ilocos Norte hotels.
■ Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel – Laoag City
■ Java Hotel – Laoag City
■ The Palacio de Laoag – Laoag City
■ UKL Ever Resort Hotel – Laoag City
■ Rio Grande de Laoag Resort Hotel – Laoag City
■ Sarita Bed and Breakfast – Laoag City
■ Bakasyunan Inn Laoag – Laoag City
■ Hotel Marquee – Laoag City
■ Vybe Hotel – Laoag City
■ RedDoorz @ General Segundo Avenue Laoag – Laoag City
Hotels and Resorts in Pagudpud
■ Pannzian Beach – Pagudpud
■ Evangeline Beach Resort – Pagudpud
■ Casa Victoria Beach Resort – Pagudpud
■ Pagudpud Rinnovati – Pagudpud
■ Kingfisher Sand Sea Surf Resort – Pagudpud
■ Casa Consuelo Resort – Pagudpud
■ North Beach Camp – Pagudpud
■ Villa Andrea Beach Resort – Pagudpud
■ Buena Vista Beach Resort – Pagudpud
Hotels and Resorts in Currimao
■ Playa Tropical Resort Hotel – Currimao
■ Pangil Beach Resort – Currimao
Hotels and Resorts in San Nicolas
■ Viven Hotel – San Nicolas
■ Green Meadows Hotel & Restaurant – San Nicolas
Ilocos Sur: Time Travel Feels in Vigan
Still wondering where to go in Ilocos Sur? You start with Vigan.
Tourist Spots in Ilocos Sur
Vigan is the heart of Ilocos Sur. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial houses. Take a kalesa ride along Calle Crisologo and feel like you went back in time. Vibe check? ✔
Calle Crisologo, Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Explore the Bantay Bell Tower, Syquia Mansion, and the Pagburnayan pottery shops. Then treat yourself to Vigan empanada, bagnet, and longganisa. Oo, legit food trip ito.
Where to Eat in Vigan
■ Café Leona
■ Lilong and Lilang Restaurant (Hidden Garden)
■ Kusina Felicitas
■ 1995 Studio Café
■ Cafe Uno
■ Cafe Bigaa
■ BarTech
■ First Sinanglaoan
■ Irene’s Vigan Empanada
■ Casa Jardin Empanada and Okoy
Top Hotels in Vigan City
If you’re staying overnight, check out Vigan City hotels for all kinds of accommodation. From boutique heritage hotels to budget inns, madami kang choices.
■ Hotel Luna – Vigan City
■ Paradores de Vigan – Vigan City
■ La Casa Blanca de Vigan Hotel – Vigan City
■ LaVie Hotel Vigan – Vigan City
■ Hotel Felicidad – Vigan City
■ Ciudad Fernandina Hotel – Vigan City
■ Villa Angela Heritage House – Vigan City
■ Hotel Mercante – Vigan City
■ Dy Heritage Suites – Vigan City
■ Vigan Plaza Hotel – Vigan City
La Union: Surf, Chill, Repeat
Now let’s talk where to go in La Union. Or as the cool kids say — Elyu (Literally L and U).
Tourist Spots in La Union
La Union is surfing central. Head to San Juan La Union resorts like Flotsam and Jetsam La Union or Kahuna La Union.Floa
Flotsam and Jetsam, La Union
Beachfront views? Check. Good vibes? Double check. Whether you're a pro surfer or just here to chill, there’s always something happening.
San Juan Beach, La Union
Looking for that perfect La Union beach? You’ll find it here. From wide shores to cozy cafés, La Union mixes surf culture with relaxing getaways. Book a cozy San Juan La Union accommodation and make it your home base.
Beachfront Accommodations in San Juan, La Union
■ Awesome Hotel
■ Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa
■ EM Royalle Hotel & Beach Resort
■ Isla Bonita Beach Resort
■ P&M Final Option Beach Resort
■ Kahel Resort
■ Fatwave Surf Resort
■ Costa Villa Beach Resort
■ The Escape San Juan
■ Flotsam and Jetsam Artist Beach Hostel
Don’t forget your IslaDry bath towel. Pack it light, dry it fast, and wipe off those salty beach feels after a surf sesh. Also, make sure to complete your beach vacation packing list so you don’t forget anything important!
Pangasinan: Island Life and Spiritual Side Trips
Need ideas where to go in Pangasinan? Pangasinan has beaches, islands, waterfalls, and even pilgrimage sites. Kakaiba talaga!
Tourist Spots in Pangasinan
Hundred Islands National Park, Pangasinan
Start with the iconic Hundred Islands Pangasinan or as some call it — 100 Islands Pangasinan. It’s in Alaminos City and offers snorkeling, island hopping, and camping adventures. Nearby, you’ll find beach resorts in Pangasinan.
Bolinao and Patar Beach Resorts
■ Puerto Del Sol Beach Resort – Barangay Ilog Malino, Bolinao
■ Birdland Beach Club – Long Beach Street, Barangay Arnedo, Bolinao
■ Casa Almarenzo Bed and Breakfast Resort – Patar Road, Barangay Estanza, Bolinao
■ Villa Soledad Beach Resort – Barangay Estanza, Bolinao
■ Punta Riviera Resort – Barangay Ilog Malino, Bolinao
■ G Beach Resort – Patar Beach, Bolinao
■ Treasures of Bolinao Beach Resort – Patar Beach, Bolinao
■ Casa Carolina Beach Resort – Patar Beach, Bolinao
■ Veue Beach Cabins – Patar Beach, Bolinao
■ Hotel G Beach Resort – Patar Beach, Bolinao
Prefer waterfalls? Visit Bolinao Falls for a cool dip. You can also check out Aw Asen Falls for a more tucked-away, nature-tripping experience — perfect for adventurers looking for something less touristy but still Insta-worthy.
*Many joiners tours offer a day trip to Aw Asen Falls, so you may opt to do that as well.
Feeling spiritual? Head to Manaoag Church and book a nearby Manaoag hotel for an overnight stay. Or explore the quiet beauty of Mangatarem, San Fabian Beach, and Urdeneta City.
Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag
Tips for Traveling Region 1 Philippines Like a Pro
Traveling Region 1 Philippines is exciting. But it’s best if you’re ready. Here are some quick tips para tipid, smooth, and fun ang trip mo.
Plan Your Route Using a Region 1 Map
Don’t get lost, bes. A proper Region 1 map can save you from wrong turns and extra gastos. Whether you’re doing a North loop or just focusing on one Region 1 province, knowing your way is key.
But if not the old way of doing things, having Google Maps and Waze will definitely help. Don’t forget to have enough load for a data/LTE/5G connection!
Joiners Tours or DIY? Ikaw bahala!
Joiners tours are budget-friendly and super convenient. Pero if you’re the explorer type, go for a DIY road trip. Basta make sure your ride is ready for Luzon’s highway adventures. Remember to load up your RFID when taking the NLEX (North Luzon Expressway).
More importantly, pack smart by bringing road trip essentials in the Philippines. And yes, bring your IslaDry bath towel.
Best Time to Visit Region 1 Philippines
The dry season is your best bet. That’s November to May. Summer months like March and April can get super hot — perfect for beach trips. But also super packed. So book early and bring sun protection.
Why IslaDry is Your Best Travel Buddy
Let’s be real. Traveling in the Philippines means beach days, spontaneous swims, sudden rain, and sweaty hikes. A regular towel? Malaki, mabigat, mabasa. But IslaDry microfiber towel? Lightweight, quick-dry, and compact.
It fits right into your travel bag without hogging space. It's 50x120 cm — just right for full-body drying. Comes in colors like apple green, baby pink, white, and black. May free gift bag pa for easy packing. And for only ₱699? Sulit! Free shipping for orders above ₱2,500 too.
Your Next Luzon Adventure Starts with IslaDry
So what are you waiting for? Plan that Region 1 trip now. Go north. See the tourist spots in Ilocos Norte, walk the streets of Vigan, surf in Elyu, and hop the islands of Pangasinan.
Bring your IslaDry microfiber towel along for the ride. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did. Whether you’re lounging in the white sand beaches of Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte or surfing in Elyu, IslaDry is your reliable, space-saving, quick-dry bestie.
G ka na ba? Let’s go, bestie! See you sa north loop!
Check out other nearby destinations for a weekend getaway here.