I remember it quite vividly — how I ended up adding San Juan, La Union to my travel bucket list. It seemed that everyone was there every single weekend, posting photos of its picture-perfect scenes: gorgeous sunsets, trendy hostels, exciting parties, and excellent restaurants.
While nearly every hostel would be fully booked every weekend a few years back, nowadays, finding an accommodation in Elyu is no longer too difficult. The toughest part, in our opinion, is choosing between all the hotels and Airbnb homes in La Union; there are so many to choose from near San Juan’s most popular spots — and a lot of them are Instagram-worthy!
Whether you’re travelling solo, going on a couples’ getaway, or planning a trip with a big group, you’re sure to find a place that will work for you. We’ve handpicked the top hotels and Airbnb listings in La Union with regard to location, design, and amenities. Check them out below!
Also read: 15 Tropical Airbnbs & Resorts in the Philippines That You Need to Visit
Top hotels & Airbnb listings in San Juan, La Union
1. This Instagram-worthy villa that’ll instantly transport you to Bali
Nope, you aren’t looking at photos of a villa in Bali — Ysla Villa is just a six-minute drive from San Juan’s surfing area, trendy hotels, and restaurants. And yes, this stylish retreat absolutely can be your home away from home in Elyu! (Just imagine all the Instagram-worthy snaps you’ll be taking here.)
The villa comes complete with a private pool, and an outdoor kitchen, grill, and dining area. Towels and toiletries are provided — and there’s free parking, too. As if those weren’t enough, it’s also just a short walk from the beach. What more could you ask for, really? You may not even want to step outside of this home!
2. This hip hostel that’s a laidback surfer’s hub
Wend your way to a quiet street in Urbiztondo to reach Shorebreak Hostel. While laidback, this cosy hostel in La Union is dressed up in pretty tropical details. Think wood furnishings, cute lighting fixtures, and framed photos. Private rooms are spacious, while dormitories offer backpackers ample space and comfy bedding to relax. Take the time to explore the property when you’re there; a shared lounge and garden provide cute spots to hang out in between surf sessions!
There’s no dramatic beachfront setting; however, Shorebreak is only 300 metres from Urbiztown Beach. So, if you’re in Surftown to catch waves or hang out at the beach, this is a pretty convenient spot for your La Union getaway. At the end of the day, order a glass of beer at the bar to toast a successful vacation. Plus, guests say WiFi is pretty fast and reliable. If it’s a workation you’re looking at, Shorebreak could be quite ideal, too!
3. This laid-back retreat close to Elyu’s most popular establishments
If being in close proximity to San Juan’s trendiest establishments is your priority, then let Alon and Sandy’s Surf Shack be your first choice. Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel and The Great Northwest are just a few minutes’ walk from this modern treehouse nestled in a quiet neighbourhood.
Before you book a stay at this Airbnb in La Union, know that it takes a bit of a climb to get here! Some find that the short hike is very manageable; plus, the breathtaking views make a stay at this home worth every bit of the journey it takes to get here. The accommodating hosts, the cool surf shack vibe, and the free pandesal and coffee in the morning are amazing bonuses as well!
Also read: 10 Dreamy Treehouse Stays in the Philippines for a Magical Vacay
4. This charming penthouse apartment that’s sure to feel like home
Considered one of the province’s gems, this Airbnb in La Union is one that guests have booked again and again; in one review, a guest actually revealed that they booked Seascape – Dreams for the fourth time! Situated right in the heart of Surftown, this penthouse apartment places you just five minutes away from some of San Juan’s most popular establishments like Mad Monkeys and Tagpuan.
On top of its great location, this home’s generous set of amenities and hospitable hosts make it such an excellent choice. Fresh towels and linens are provided, along with board games, free Wi-Fi, coffee, and drinking water. Its shared living spaces make it worthy of a group staycation — the modern living room and spacious balcony are perfect spots for catching up with friends. To add to all that, a stay at this apartment also comes with free parking!
5. This simple resting place for travellers who plan to stay out and about
Perhaps you’re the type of traveller who doesn’t need any special amenities — just a nice, clean place to stay. This private room is simple yet spotless, and despite its minimalist aesthetic, still quite a stylish choice. Tucked in a quiet area, it’s a quick five-minute drive away from San Juan’s trendiest restaurants, hotels, and surfing spots. (Plus points: Free parking is provided, so you won’t have to park your car on the street!)
Within just a few minutes, you’ll be able to walk to a quiet, less crowded slice of the beach. Whether you’re travelling solo, in pairs, or with a group of up to six people, this Airbnb in La union is a great pick — especially if you prefer to stay away from bustling tourist areas!
6. This fan-cooled kubo just a minute away from the beach
Is surfing the number one item on your agenda? Then look no further! Aki Surf Cottages is owned by Japanese surfer Kazuo “Aki” Akinaga: one of the pioneers who made San Juan the surfing capital of the North that it is today. In addition, it’s right by all the action that Elyu is known for, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Located within the compound of San Juan Surf Resort, this kubo is situated within a spacious garden where you’ll surely love having a cup of coffee or bonding over drinks with your friends. Despite that the room is fan-cooled, previous guests swear you won’t feel the heat! Much like in hostels, the bathrooms here are shared — but this place is often commended for being clean and well-kept, and towels (as well as shower essentials) are provided.
7. This funky, action-packed boutique hotel
Level up your Elyu experience by booking a stay at Funky Quarters, a popular boutique hotel in San Juan. Standing out among other accommodations in the area, the hotel is known for its unique theme inspired by music, surf, and art. Not only will you love the groovy interiors, but you’ll also get to enjoy a lot of cool amenities when you book a stay here.
Guests will love their private bathroom’s Aesop toiletries and Japanese-style toilets (we kid you not!). In addition, a stay here also comes with complimentary breakfasts — plus, access to Funky Quarters’ common areas such as the glass room, lounge, and Hyde’s Bar and Kitchen. To top it all off, your pets are welcome here, too!
8. This cosy, chill cabin in the heart of Surftown
Looking to stay close to the beach and Elyu’s best bars and restaurants? Bohemian Hill offers the perfect location! And while Surftown’s hottest spots are just within walking distance, you wouldn’t even notice — that’s how peaceful it is here.
Situated atop a hill, this cabin boasts some of the most gorgeous views in San Juan. When you book a stay here, you’ll even have your very own balcony, which you should certainly take full advantage of. You can also enjoy shared spaces, such as the pool, garden, outdoor lounge area, and viewing deck.
9. This minimalist home that’s fit for the whole barkada
There’s no denying that Elyu is best enjoyed with a big group of friends; that being said, we love that Naranja Home is spacious enough for seven! We also appreciate that there are lots of space for lounging and bonding — because the best barkada trips always involve simply chilling out and enjoying each other’s company. Oh, and did we mention there’s free parking, too?
You’re sure to love this house design-wise as well. The decor is minimalist, with lots of lovely rattan touches; offering just the right balance between modern and traditional. We’re already excited to see all your Instagram photos!
10. This tropical-inspired home with a private pool
Looking for an Airbnb in La Union with a private pool? Here’s one you should definitely consider! Loved for its cosy, laid-back feel, this two-bedroom house was designed to make guests feel right at home. Whether you plan to stay indoors or be out and about, you’ll never have a dull moment when booking a stay here.
You’ll not only love the amenities, but also the great location — close to all the Elyu action, but still far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet. In addition to the town’s hotspots, the public market is just within walking distance, too. So, you and your travel buds can enjoy San Juan’s local flavours and home-cooked meals!
11. This beautiful family rental that’s sure to feel like home
For a true escape that’s some ways from the buzzy Elyu action, this five-bedroom vacation house in Bacnotan is perfect. With five bedrooms and sprawling outdoor spaces, Balay Baroro is especially suited to big groups of up to a dozen guests.
Besides an outdoor swimming pool and private beach access, Balay Baroro comes with terraces and cabanas for enjoying drinks, alfresco meals, and amazing sunsets. And this house is just as awesome inside! Furniture are all Ilocos-inspired and custom-designed using local wood.
With its location on a hidden surf beach that’s a local favourite, wave riders will never want to leave Balay Baroro. We can’t say we don’t agree; it’s pretty amazing that you can surf from sun up to sun down at this underrated Bacnotan spot!
12. This cosy bed & breakfast you’ll want to keep coming back to
It’s not hard to fall in love with Curbside Villa, one of Elyu’s newest and most stunning accommodations. The bed and breakfast will quickly catch your eye with every one of its picture-perfect corners — from the Balinese-inspired entryway, all the way down to their gorgeous bathrooms, some of which even boast indoor gardens! Not to mention, every villa also comes with its very own patio, complete with a daybed, lounge chairs, and a pullout table.
Each of Curbside Villas’ eight villas exudes a minimalist aesthetic, all while succeeding at providing guests with everything they’ll need for a comfortable stay and more. Apart from their Instagram-worthy everything, the B&B also offers amenities you won’t get to enjoy just anywhere: fresh towels, pandemic essentials like alcohol and disinfectant, plus their special conditioning and body wash that guests will absolutely enjoy using. Trust us when we tell you it’s an accommodation you’ll want to keep coming home to!
13. This beachfront home that’s easily one of Elyu’s best-kept secrets
No matter how many times you come back to Elyu, chances are, you’ll discover a new favourite spot. For instance, there’s Eliseos — a peaceful hideaway found in one of the quieter parts of Surftown. The dreamy home boasts all the makings of the perfect vacation: beachfront access; an in-house restaurant where you can enjoy free breakfasts; and additional guest amenities like a gym, pool, and sauna.
Take your pick from one of their eight suites and beach cottages, or book the entire place to yourselves. With everything you need right within Eliseos, you’ll be able to enjoy the ultimate Elyu trip without even having to set foot outside this home!
Did you find your perfect home away from home on this list of La Union hotels and Airbnbs? We hope you enjoy your stay!
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