Facing the West Philippine Sea in the northern part of Ilocos Norte, Pagudpud Island is a sight to behold. Its amazing white sand beaches lined with coconut trees and crystal-blue water is something that you should not miss when heading out to the northern portion of the country.
Saud Beach is where all the action takes place and where most of the more posh accommodations is located. If you prefer a more private and quiet place, head out to the Blue Lagoon in Barangay Balaoi. Catch a glimpse of fishermen hauling in their catch of a huge lapu lapu (grouper) or lobster. If you are in luck, you may be able to buy them for a bargain price and have it cooked in a nearby restaurant shack.
Photo @ evangelinebeachresort.net
How To Get There
Pagudpud Island is accessible through air and land transportation. From Manila, book a flight to Laoag International Airport and take a 90-minute drive to Pagudpud.
Via land, there are provincial buses and vans that traverse the Laoag-Pagudpud route. Ride a bus going to Claveria or Tuguegarao and ask the driver to drop you off at the Pagudpud Baduang Market. Another option is to ride a jeepney or mini-bus to the island. The trip will provide you with a spectacular view of the coast so your camera will come in handy. There are also tour and hotel agencies that include Pagudpud in their itinerary.
If you decide to take your own car, Pagudpud Island is accessible via Maharlika Highway. The road is between rolling hills on one side and the blue waters on the other. This is also an ideal place for driving as there are no traffic jams.
What To Do
Pagudpud Island has its own share of attractions that would make your trip to this part of the country truly worthwhile. Here are just some of the things that can keep you occupied while staying in the island:
- Visit Southeast Asia’s largest turbine facility. Located in the town of Bangui, these 70-meter windmills do not only provide electricity for the whole province of Ilocos Norte but also gives tourist a spectacular view. Take advantage of this opportunity to take pictures.
- Be mesmerized with the waterfalls. The island is home to three breathtaking waterfalls. Trek 30 minutes to Kaibigan Falls. Head out to the town of Adams and visit Anuplig Waterfalls. In the town of Bangui, you can view the cascading Abang Falls.
- Put some light into your trip. As an archipelago with a large coastline, it is also home to a plethora of lighthouses. In the town of Burgos, you can visit the 19th century Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, an octagonal structure finished with baked brick. It is still functional to this very day and has a small museum.
So when heading up north, make sure you include Pagudpud Island in your itinerary.
