Surfing in San Juan in La Union
Part of the La Union travel guide — see every topic in All La Union Guides.
San Juan is a small town on the coast of La Union, about 8 kilometres north of San Fernando. It is often called the surf capital of the northern Philippines. The main surf area is the Urbiztondo beach, a long strip of dark sand lined with surf schools, hostels and cafes. The waves here are friendly, so it is a very popular place to take a first lesson. More experienced surfers come too, because some spots nearby get bigger waves.
The waves
The main break at Urbiztondo is a beach break. The waves roll in over sand, they are usually not very big, and they break slowly. This makes them good for beginners and for people on longboards. On a normal day you can stand in the white water close to shore and practise. When a bigger swell arrives, the outer waves become faster and stronger, and they suit intermediate surfers better. Near the beach there are also rocky point and reef areas that get bigger, faster waves on good days. These spots are for experienced surfers only. Ask a local surf school which spot matches your level before you paddle out.
Lessons and boards
Surf schools line the beach, and you can usually walk up and book a lesson on the same day. A typical first lesson lasts about one hour. An instructor stays with you in the water, pushes you into waves and helps you stand up. Most schools use large soft-top boards, which are wide, stable and safe if they hit you. Many people stand up on their first day. After a few lessons, you can rent a board by the hour and surf on your own. Prices change with the season and the school, so compare a few. Wear a rash guard or a long-sleeve top and use reef-safe sunscreen, because the sun is strong.
The two surf seasons
La Union gets surf in two main periods. From about July to October, storms out at sea can send big swells, but the weather is wet and the waves can be messy or too strong. From about November to March, the northeast monsoon brings the most regular waves, often with clean mornings and sunny days. Many local surfers say this is the best time of year. From April to June, the sea is often flat, which is better for swimming than surfing. Surf can still appear on some days. Check a surf forecast or ask your surf school before you travel for a surf trip.
Safety in the water
The water is warm all year, so you do not need a wetsuit. Stay inside the area where the surf schools work, because currents can be stronger farther along the beach. Beginners should surf with an instructor for the first sessions. Keep away from rocks and from other surfers, and never let go of a big board near other people. Use a leash on your ankle. If you are tired, catch a wave in and rest on the sand. During storms and strong swells, local officials may ask people to stay out of the water. Follow the flags and the advice of lifeguards and surf schools.
Surfing in San Juan at a glance
| Where | Urbiztondo beach, San Juan, La Union |
|---|---|
| Wave type | Sandy beach break; point and reef spots for experts |
| Best surf | About November to March |
| Hours | Surf schools open from early morning to late afternoon |
| Cost | Lessons and board rental by the hour; prices vary by school |
| Getting there | Tricycle from San Fernando, about 15 to 20 minutes |