2026 Ilocos Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

The Patapat Viaduct is a viaduct at the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, a coastal resort town on the northernmost tip of Luzon Island in the Philippines. The bridge is elevated 31 meters over sea level.

We’re losing it!” I shouted in a mixture of excitement and panic as the 4×4 jeepney we were riding stirred dust across the vast arid land. The big ball of fire is slowly dipping in the horizon, and the sea pine trees — which under normal circumstances I would find delightful — were blocking the view. We’re losing it, I whispered again, this time in a tone that was coming from a place between sadness and frustration. We just lost the sunset. But there was no time to be unhappy. The vehicle accelerated under the twilight skies, illuminated by the afterglow of the sunset that we just missed. The weak sunlight hurdling the horizon became our guide and there we were in the middle of a desert in Ilocos Norte, just about to start our sandy adventure. Up and down the sand dunes we went while we struggled to keep a good grip on the safety bars. Taking photos was a challenge because not only did we not have enough light, I certainly did not want to be in the the next day’s news about a blogger who accidentally and stupidly got thrown off the vehicle. We were in the middle of Paoay Sand Dunes, one of the many thirsty lands in Ilocos. On the plane while approaching the Laoag runway, my eyes were treated to view of spectacular landscapes, which are patched with many mini-deserts. This place was one of those. Paoay Sand Dunes is an 88 sq km parched paradise that lies adjacent Suba Beach. It is one of the two most popular sand dunes sites in the province, the other one being La Paz in Laoag City. #scenicspotphotoguide#historicculture#beautifulsunsets#bestislandtraveltowns#naturalwonders#culturalattractions

it was a good time with great friends. #summervacation

Breath taking and relaxing resort in Salcedo Ilocos Sur. A very first man-made pool with natural spring water in Ilocos Sur. The natural spring water is coming from the falls of Mount Madarang. The water is flowing so it’s very clean” “The Grand Buaya River is also a few steps down the resort so if you feel like it, feel free to go. And Bago Falls of Mount Mandarang is an hour hike from the resort. The mountains of Madarang, Baybayading and Kinmarin are very nice spots for hikers and has been visited frequently by trekkers and mountaineers since it is the gateway leading to the historical sites of TIRAD PASS!” Highlights : Fireplace Offerings: Car Hire, Sauna Resort Opens: 8am-5pm Tables & Cottages: (First come first served policy) Tables beside the pool - P100 -Good to 6-8 person Tables on deck views - P150 -Good to 6-8 person Kubo/cottages - P250 -Good to 8-10 person Function Hall - P1000 -Good to 100 person #urbanexplorer #summervacation #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Even though it’s not a typical Philippines destination, that doesn’t mean Ilocos Norte isn’t worth the trip! It’s a beautiful place with clear remnants of colonial Spain in the main part of town. The most fun things to do in this area are sand sports! Dune Buggy riding, sand surfing, etc. A great location for some chill summer days 😌 #roadtrip#summervacation#beachvacation#urbanexplorer

#springitinerary If you’re looking for that “do nothing but chill” kinda beach trip, Patar Beach in Bolinao is it. Crystal clear water, soft golden sand, and zero fancy resorts, which honestly makes it even better. It’s got that raw, untouched charm where you can just lay on the sand, eat grilled seafood, and forget what day it is. The sunsets? Absolutely unreal, like, phone camera doesn’t do it justice kind of unreal. You can also check out nearby spots like the lighthouse or the rock formations if you're feeling a little explore-y, but honestly, just chilling by the shore is enough. It’s not super commercialized, so bring your own snacks, drinks, and good vibes. Whether you’re with friends or flying solo, Patar’s the kind of place that resets your brain. Lowkey, it’s giving paradise without the tourist chaos. 10/10 would beach bum again.

#travel

Just returned from an unforgettable trip to Pagudpod, Kapurpurawan, Cape Bojeador, Paoay Church in Ilocos, Philippines! 🏝️ The breathtaking lighthouse views and serene beaches are a must-see. Stayed at the historical Calle Crisologo, which made the experience even more special. 🌞 #Philippines #TravelGoals #ExplorePH #TropicalParadise #ExplorePH

Love the area, near surfing area of the north

Visit the awesome beauty of Vigan City of Ilocos Region in the Northern part of the Philippines. It is full of Spanish Culture way back since the 50's.. #staycation #urbanexplorer #it'smorefuninthephilippines