San Fernando (la Union) Travel Guide

A provincial capital along the South China Sea, San Fernando has deep Spanish colonial roots and several important archeological sites. It sits at the heart of a stretch of coastal resorts within weekend driving distance of Manila.

San Fernando was founded in 1759 when two local communities joined forces to protect themselves from pirates and a warring tribal group. The settlement sits back from the coast to keep it safe from pirates but avoids the foothills of the mountains where dangerous headhunters made camp in the 18th century.

The only invaders today's residents contend with are weekenders from Manila who flood the beaches for rest and relaxation away from life in the city. International tourists may find more attractive beaches in other parts of the Philippines, but the colonial architecture and rich history make this a viable stopover on a tour of North Luzon.

Beyond the beaches, the main attractions are heritage structures like the Pindangan Ruins, the Cathedral of St William and the Moro Watch Tower. Other attractions include provincial museums and the Philippines' first botanical gardens.

Travel to San Fernando - getting there

Manila is the closest bastion of big city life, and this is where most international tourists first touch down. From Manila you ultimately follow the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) into the Ilocos Region. It's possible to hire a car in Manila and drive yourself, and it takes about 4 hours to connect one-way.

In brief

Worth it? This is a worthwhile stop for those visiting North Luzon.

What to do: visit archeological sites, relax on the beach.

Best time to go: from November to April when the weather is dry.

How long? One or two days are enough in San Fernando.

Trivia: visit in mid-February to enjoy the festival honoring Saint William the Hermit, the city's patron saint.

San Fernando attractions

  • 1 - Beaches: San Fernando's beaches are a main attraction, some built up by resorts and others secluded and backed by picnic sheds.
  • Cathedral of Saint William the Hermit: originally a colonial-era building, this church was rebuilt after it sustained heavy damage during WWII.
  • Moro Watch Tower: 200 years ago, this was an important lookout point designed to protect local residents from pirates and headhunters.

Side trips from San Fernando

  • Botanical Gardens: five miles from the city center, these gardens were the first of their kind to be cultivated in the Philippines.
  • Pindangan Ruins: remnants of an 18th-century settlement and church that was built under Spanish colonial rule, these ruins are found in Barangay Parian.