San Juan, La Union – the name itself conjures up visions of sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and the exhilarating rush of riding a perfect wave. No wonder it's been dubbed the "Surfing Capital of the North" in the Philippines! But with so many fantastic surf resorts lining the coast, choosing the perfect home base for your salty adventure can be overwhelming. Worry not, intrepid surfer! This guide unveils the top 10 surf resorts in San Juan, La Union, catering to every budget, skill level, and vibe.
Let's kick things off with a bang! Fatwave Surf Resort is a haven for surfers of all levels, boasting a prime location right on Urbiztondo Beach, known for its consistent breaks and mellow vibe. Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves, grabbing a coffee at their beachfront cafe, and then catching your first ride of the day just steps away. Fatwave offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly dorms to luxurious beachfront villas, all with a laid-back surfer aesthetic. Their surf school is top-notch, with certified instructors ready to guide you from catching your first pop-up to carving epic turns. After a day of shredding, refuel at their on-site restaurant, The Shack, with delicious Filipino and international fare. Fatwave is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and surf-centric fun, making it a top choice for any surfer seeking an unforgettable La Union experience.
Craving a touch of luxury alongside your surf sessions? Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa elevates the experience with its Balinese-inspired beachfront paradise. Picture yourself lounging in a poolside cabana, indulging in spa treatments, and savoring gourmet meals at their oceanfront restaurants. Kahuna's surf school caters to all skill levels, offering private and group lessons, and even surf camps for an immersive experience. And when you're not riding the waves, explore the resort's lush gardens, unwind in the infinity pool, or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. Kahuna seamlessly blends luxury with adventure, making it ideal for those seeking a pampered surf escape.
For a vibrant and social atmosphere, look no further than Urbiztondo Surf Resort. This beachfront resort is a hub for surfers and travelers alike, with a lively bar, regular events, and a communal feel. Their surf school is renowned for its experienced instructors and innovative teaching methods, ensuring you progress quickly and safely. After a day of catching waves, unwind at their beachfront bar, The Boardroom, with live music, refreshing cocktails, and delicious snacks. Urbiztondo Surf Resort is the perfect place to connect with fellow surfers, share stories, and create lasting memories.
Solo travelers and budget-conscious adventurers will love Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel. This charming hostel boasts a friendly atmosphere, comfortable dorms, and a fantastic location right on the beach. Their in-house surf school offers affordable lessons and rentals, making it easy to get your surf on without breaking the bank. Flotsam and Jetsam also organizes regular events like beach bonfires and movie nights, providing opportunities to connect with other travelers and share stories. This vibrant hostel is a great choice for those seeking a fun and affordable surf adventure.
Families and groups will find their perfect haven at Thunderbird Resort. This sprawling resort offers a range of accommodation options, from hotel rooms to spacious villas, all with stunning ocean views. Thunderbird boasts a dedicated kids' club, multiple pools, and a variety of water sports activities, ensuring everyone has a blast. Of course, there's also a surf school on-site, catering to all skill levels and offering lessons and rentals. After a day of fun, families can gather around the bonfire for smores, enjoy a delicious buffet at one of the resort's restaurants, or simply relax and watch the sunset over the ocean. Thunderbird Resort is the perfect blend of family fun and surf adventure.
Nestled in a quiet corner of Urbiztondo Beach, Sebay Surf Central offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a more relaxed surf experience. This family-friendly resort boasts comfortable rooms, a beachfront restaurant, and a laid-back atmosphere. Their surf school caters to all levels, with experienced instructors who prioritize personalized attention and small group lessons. Sebay Surf Central also organizes yoga classes and meditation sessions, perfect for finding your inner peace after a day of catching waves. If you're looking for a serene escape with a focus on wellness and surf, Sebay Surf Central is your haven.
This unique resort combines the charm of a rustic campsite with the convenience of beachfront cabins. Nestled among towering coconut trees, Camp Edmund offers a back-to-nature experience, perfect for eco-conscious adventurers. Their surf school emphasizes sustainable practices and offers surf lessons and camps focused on environmental awareness. After a day exploring the waves, gather around the communal bonfire, enjoy fresh seafood prepared over an open fire, and gaze at the star-studded sky. Camp Edmund is the perfect choice for those seeking a raw and authentic surf experience in harmony with nature.
For serious surfers looking to take their skills to the next level, La Union Surf Camp is the ultimate training ground. This camp offers intensive surf programs with renowned coaches, video analysis sessions, and access to world-class waves. Campers benefit from a structured program with targeted drills and personalized feedback, maximizing their progress in a short time. The camp also organizes regular contests and surf trips, allowing surfers to test their skills in different conditions. La Union Surf Camp is the ideal choice for dedicated surfers seeking rapid improvement and an immersive surf experience.
Don't be fooled by the name – this hotel is a step above its hostel counterpart. Flotsam and Jetsam Hotel offers chic and contemporary beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views. Their surf school caters to all levels and provides personalized lessons and rentals. After a day of catching waves, relax by the pool, indulge in their spa treatments, or savor gourmet meals at their on-site restaurant. Flotsam and Jetsam Hotel is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and surf, ideal for those seeking a sophisticated yet laid-back beach escape.
Located in the heart of Surftown, this lively hostel is a magnet for budget-conscious travelers and social butterflies. Surftown Backpackers offers dorm beds and private rooms, all within steps of the beach and the vibrant town center. Their on-site surf school boasts experienced instructors and affordable lessons, making it easy to get your surf on without breaking the bank. The hostel also organizes regular events like pub crawls and beach parties, ensuring you'll never have a dull moment. Surftown Backpackers is the perfect choice for those seeking a fun and social surf adventure on a budget.
This carefully curated list offers a diverse range of surf resorts in San Juan, La Union, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you're a seasoned surfer chasing epic waves, a beginner dipping your toes in the ocean, or simply seeking a relaxed beach escape, San Juan has the perfect resort waiting for you. So grab your board, pack your bags, and get ready to conquer the waves in the Surfing Capital of the North!
Bonus Tip: Remember to check the seasons and wave conditions before planning your trip, as San Juan offers different breaks for different skill levels throughout the year.
With the right research and a spirit of adventure, you're sure to have an unforgettable surf experience in the Philippines!
MacArthur Highway, Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, Philippines
General Inquiry
+63 917 885 5754
Reservations
+63 927 659 0176
Events and Collaborations
events@fatwavesurfresort.net
Room Reservations
reservations@fatwavesurfresort.net
