Baguio and La Union Mountain & Sea Route
A short route heading north from Manila to the pine-forested mountain city of Baguio, then down to the surf beaches of La Union.
A long weekend combination popular among Manila locals: head up the mountains to escape the heat first, then down to the coast to surf. The travel time between the two places is less than two hours, making it easy to connect them, and the return journey uses the expressway. The pace is relaxed and can be done via public transport. Ideal for friends traveling together and first-time surfers, leaving northern Vigan for a longer holiday.
October to March is the surfing season in San Juan. Beginners can choose calmer periods or hire an instructor.
Day by day
Day 1 · Head up the Mountain to Baguio
Baguio（Session Road、Burnham Park、Baguio Night Market）
Take an early morning bus via the expressway to Baguio (about 5–6 hours). Explore Session Road and the parks in the afternoon.
Stay: Session Road and Burnham Park
Day 2 · Baguio Art and Mountain Views
Baguio（BenCab Museum、Tam-awan Village、Mines View Park、Good Shepherd Convent）
Take a taxi to connect various points in the city, with travel times of about 15–30 minutes between spots.
Stay: Session Road and Burnham Park
Day 3 · Down the Mountain to Surf in San Juan
La Union（Ma-Cho Temple、Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan）
Take a morning bus down the mountain to San Fernando (about 2 hours), then transfer to a jeepney to the beach (about 20 minutes).
Stay: Urbiztondo
Day 4 · Tangadan Falls and Return Journey
Take a jeepney and tricycle to the waterfall entrance in the morning. Take a bus back to Manila in the afternoon (about 5–6 hours).
The hike to the waterfall takes about 45 minutes and requires wading across a river.