Experience San Fernando, La Union—a place where culture, nature, and community thrive and evolve together. As the People’s City, we take pride in our heritage, hospitality, and heart for service. Whether you are here to unwind by the coast, explore historical treasures, indulge in local flavors, or connect with our vibrant communities, San Fernando welcomes you with open arms.
This is San Fernando TAYO – a city of Travel, Adventure, Yearning, and Odyssey.
Intayon, kakabsat! Let’s go, let’s grow, let our spirits glow—in the Creative City of San Fernando, where great stories flow and true hearts show.
GETTING HERE
BY LAND
San Fernando is easily accessible via major highways from Metro Manila. Travelers can embark on a scenic drive or opt for comfortable bus services that ply daily routes to the city. The journey typically takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
From Manila to San Fernando:
- Distance: ~270 kilometers
- Travel Time: 4.5 to 6 hours via NLEX – SCTEX – TPLEX
- Several bus lines (Partas, Dominion, Viron, Fariñas) offer daily direct trips.
- Van and car rentals are also widely available
BY AIR
San Fernando Airport is located between Barangay Canaoay and Barangay San Francisco, and currently serves private and chartered flights.
It is ideal for small private aircraft, air taxis, and flight school training.
Nearest commercial airports aside from Manila:
- Clark International Airport – ~170 km (3.5–4 hours by land)
- Laoag International Airport – ~200 km (4.5–5 hours by land)
BY SEA
The San Fernando International Seaport serves as a gateway for maritime travel. While primarily a cargo port, it accommodates private vessels and yachts, offering a unique entry point for sea travelers.
THINGS TO DO
BEACH AND WATER ACTIVITIES
SWIMMING AND BEACH COMBING
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Enjoy the calm beaches of the San Fernando Coast and Beach Circuits in the 9 coastal barangays.
- San Francisco-Canaoay (Acapulco) Beach Circuit
- Pagdalagan-Pagudpud-San Vicente Beach Circuit
- Carlatan-Lingsat-Dalumpinas Oeste Beach Circuit
- San Agustin-Poro-Catbangen Beach Circuit
- Ilocanos Sur-Ilocanos-Norte-Pagdaraoan Beach Circuit
Surfing
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Surf the rolling waves of Carlatan–Lingsat–Dalumpinas Oeste Beach Circuit—San Fernando’s coastal havens for sun, sea, and stoke.
SNORKELING AND DIVING
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Explore our three Marine Sanctuaries
- Kasay Marine Sanctuary
- Lingsat Marine Sanctuary
- Poro Marine Sanctuary, including a man-made Underwater Museum.
Baywalk AND Sunset Viewing
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Relax along Poro Point Baywalk and the developing Ilocanos Baywalk with stunning sea views.
Cultural and Heritage Exploration
Historical Landmarks
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Visit
- Pindangan Ruins
- Pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Discover the Moro Watchtower
- Battle of Bacsil Ridge Monument.
Religious and Cultural Sites
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Step into spiritual and architectural gems like:
- Ma-Cho Temple
- visit all 10 Roman Catholic churches in San Fernando, including our oldest diocese, Saint William the Hermit Parish Church heritage journey
City Murals & Monuments
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Stroll through the
- City Plaza
- City Fountain and People’s Park
- Freedom Park
- Streets adorned with local stories and public art.
Culinary Adventures
Local Food Trips
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Savor Ilocano dishes at eateries, restaurants, and food parks
Night Food Parks and Maykan Mangan Experiences
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Taste new and traditional dishes at events and night markets.
Pasalubong Hunting
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Buy local delicacies like roasted peanuts, peanut butter, ube wine, and more.
Relaxation and Wellness
- Nature Walks – Stroll through the Botanical and Zoological Garden in Cadaclan, or the Mangrove Walk in Carlatan.
- Sunrise and Sunset Viewing – Catch the most beautiful golden hours of sunrise or sunset from the Mountain View Decks Circuit in Bacsil, Apaleng, and Bangbangolan, or the five Beach Circuits
- Spa & Wellness Centers – Unwind in various wellness hubs around the city.
Outdoor and Nature-Based Activities
- Trekking and Hilltop Visits – Hike up Pagoda Hill or Reservoir Hill.
- Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing – Explore diverse flora and fauna in the La Union Botanical and Zoological Garden.
Photography and Scenic Views
- Sea of Clouds in Cadaclan and Upland Barangays – Wake up early and chase the mist!
- Rice Terraces of Pacpaco and Baraoas – Nestled in the city’s upland folds, these hand-carved rice terraces paint a peaceful picture of harmony between man and mountain—best captured during planting and harvest seasons
- Sunrise and Sunset by the Bay – Along the coastal barangays and Poro Point Baywalk or the developing Ilocanos Baywalk, the sunrise over the hills and sunset melting into the West Philippine Sea create postcard-perfect moments every single day.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of San Fernando through the city fiesta, religious festivals, and city-wide events!
- Feast of St. William the Hermit
- Cityhood Foundation Anniversary
- Pindangan Festival
- Global Agri-Turismo Festival
- Sundown Music and Arts Festival
- Matzu Festival
- CREATE Festival
- Parakad Festival,
- Maykan Mangan Festival.
