Pretty Pagudpud

Saud Beach in Pagudpud is an easy 2 hour bus trip from Laoag City. It is pretty in its own way with its ivory fine sand and deep blue waters. But definetely it is not another Boracay. For one, the beach turns deep immediately from the shore and there is a dangerous undertow. So most people stay really close to the shore for safety purposes. It is also the only beach where life vests are being rented out for obvious reasons.

Nevertheless, Saud beach is clean and scenic. There are a number of reasonably priced resorts in the area catering to different budgets. However there are limited dining options. The place is ideal for a quiet time at the beach if your idea of a beach holiday is just to savor the fresh air and the beautiful scenery and not really to take a swim.

Wow WindMills

Considered as the biggest windmill in Southeast Asia the Bangui Windmills is one of stellar tourist attractions of Ilocos Norte.

The windmills are facing the South China Sea and the strong winds from the sea power the windmills. It also an awesome sight against the backdrop of sand and sea. Bangui windmills actually provide 40% of the power requirements of Ilocos Norte resulting in relatively cheaper electric cost in the province.

Kapurpurawan Rocks!

It is a dirt road that leads to this major tourist attraction of Ilocos Norte, the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. The 20 minute road trip plus the 30 minute walk along slippery path of sharp rocks leading to the wind blasted white rock formation is rewarded with the truly amazing sight of this rock formation and the scenery surrounding it.

One could only wish that the local and provincial governments of Ilocos Norte will prioritize the improvement of the road going to Kapurpurawan and provide a cemented pathway to make it easier to go to this true jewel of Ilocos Norte tourism.

I hesitated to walk all the way up to the Rock because of the lack of a pathway. But I was glad that my guide encouraged me to complete the walk because the scenery on top of Kapurpurawan is awesome. You will be energized by the strong and fresh sea breeze and the sight of spectacular coastline of the place.

Ilocos Norte Coastline

The road trip from Laoag to Pagudpod takes 2 hours but you will not notice the time because of the many interesting sights along the national highway. The highway passes along the scenic and rugged coastline of Ilocos Norte. This scenic coastline of sharp rocks and strong waves is unique in the Philippines and is more commonly seen in European countries such as Ireland, England and Italy.

Cool sea breeze coming from the South China Sea and its deep blue waters makes for a truly relaxing road trip.