Those who have an affinity for the outdoors will enjoy the countless sights Pagudpud has to offer. It’s a great vacation option for families, couples or friends who want a little bit of everything in their weekend getaway.
Be awestruck with Pagudpud’s natural wonders - from waterfalls and scenic beaches, to man-made attractions such as highways and windmill farms. While the journey may be a long one, a trip to Pagudpud will definitely be worth every minute.
From Manila, board a one-hour flight to Laoag. Pagudpud may be reached via jeepneys that ply the Laoag-Pagudpud route. Another alternative is to take Cagayan-bound buses that pass Pagudpud.
Travelers coming from Manila to Pagudpud should be patient as the travel time is 10 to 12 hours long. Several bus companies ply this route such as Florida Bus Line, Partas, Baliwag and Farinas stop at Laoag. From there, hop on a jeep bound for Pagudpud. Travel time is two hours.
Tricycles are the most common mode of transportation to get around. Tourists may also choose to hire a tricycle for the whole day to make the most out of the trip, as well as to save time instead of waiting to hail for one.
A trip to Pagudpud is incomplete without a photo with the famous Patapat Viaduct. The 1,300-meter viaduct is elevated 31 meters above sea level and snakes through a section of the Cordillera mountain range. For trivia geeks, this bridge is the fourth longest in the country.
Arranged in one row along Bangui Bay is Southeast Asia’s first power-generating wind farm. Consisting of 20 windmills that are 230 feet high, the farm produces 40% of the area’s electricity. Take a closer look at the windmills, shoot some photos and just be awestruck with this massive structure.
Lastly, be awestruck with countless natural wonders. Nature lovers will definitely have a swell time in Pagudpud as there are plenty of natural attractions to revel in. Kapurpurawan Rock Formation features towering white rock formation is situated on the coast of Burgos, near the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. “Kapurpurawan” translates to “white” in Ilocano. Apart from this, there’s also waterfalls to take a nice, quick afternoon dip in, and of course, beaches.
Those with an adventurous streak will definitely enjoy experiencing the country’s longest open water zipline. The 1-kilometer zipline ride costs only P600 for those booked in the hotel, and P700 for outsiders. Riders will get to enjoy a rewarding view of the ocean, a cool breeze and of course, the adrenaline rush.
Pagudpud is home to the majestic 120-foot Kabigan Waterfalls. Getting there is a mini adventure - 30 minutes away from the jump-off point, the trail passes through a dense forest and crossing a small bridge.
What is a trip to Pagudpud without adding to your itinerary the province’s beautiful beaches? Two popular beach hotspots include Saud Beach and Blue Lagoon. Saud Beach is dubbed as the “Boracay of the North” due to the beach’s long stretch of powdery, white sand and coconut trees that dot the shore. The beach is a favorite among local visitors and foreigners as well. Another beach worth visiting is Blue Lagoon in Maira-ira Point. The natural attraction features turquoise water and if you want to stay overnight, there’s plenty of lodging options.
A five-minute tricycle ride from the jump-off in Bangui Windmills will take you to Kangkang Coffee Shop and Restaurant. The restaurant offers a view of the sea and is best enjoyed with a cup of cold coffee or a soothing glass of the restaurant’s popular coconut shake. Those who want a taste of Ilocano cuisine can order pinakbet and lechon kawali.
Serving Italian fusion cuisine, Tartaruga also offers its own version of lechon kawali that is served with a chili honey glaze. Apart from its restaurant, Tartaruga also offers several quaint rooms if you choose to stay for a night or two.
Serving German and Filipino fare at affordable prices, BergBlick Deutsches is a fine dining restaurant headed by a German executive chef. Of course, what is a visit to Ilocos without trying the bagnet? BergBlick offers two variations of the dish - lemon pepper and garlic chili. Those looking for a sweet ending will also enjoy the restaurant’s creme brulee or a serving of German wheat beer.
As Pagudpud is a coastal town, expect the nightlife to be quiet. Instead, savor the tropical feel of Pagudpud or order a beer at your hotel or resort to sit down, appreciate the scenery and have a meaningful chat with your travel companions - or turn in early to recharge your batteries for another day of exploring.
Pagudpud offers a variety of accommodations that will suit every budget. Saud Beach has a number of resorts, including Saud Beach Resort which offers first-class amenities and urban creature comforts such as air conditioned rooms and private shower and toilets.
Another hotel to consider is Kapuluan Vista Resort near Blue Lagoon. Guests will enjoy the resort’s contemporary design and cozy rooms. What’s more, Kapuluan also offers surfing lessons, yoga facilities and massage services. Those on a budget won’t have a hard time looking for accommodations as well, as there are homestays that offer rooms for as low as P250 per night, however, bathrooms are communal.
Total Accommodation | 15 Properties |
Popular Area | Caparispisan, Pancian |
Popular Hotel | Pagudpud Rinnovati Beach Resort, Pannzian Beach |
Popular Landmark | Blue Lagoon Beach, Saud Beach |