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The Philippines is an archipelago country filled with wondrous places to explore, but Laoag City is among the best. The word Laoag is derived from the Ilocano word, which means ‘bright’ or ‘light’. The jewel of Ilocos Norte, Laoag is the place every traveler needs on their bucket list.
Traveling to a new place can be a bit nerve-wracking, even if it is a holiday. However, this ultimate Laoag travel guide has got your back. Get ready to be fascinated by the beauty of the different Laoag City tourist spots, from crystal clear lakes to the La Paz dunes. Read on to know the best things to do in Laoag – the Sunshine City.
Find Serenity at Paoay Lake:
Paoay Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in the Philippines covering a surface area of 368 hectares. Legend states the lake was once a village that was submerged by a flood that turned into Paoay Lake. The lake is treated with nothing but respect making it a feeding stop for many endangered, nomadic, and common bird species.
Relive Mad Max at the La Paz Sand Dunes:
The La Paz dunes are the place to be for all those thrills-seeking adventurers. It opens as early as 5:30 a.m. to allow tourists to ride 4×4 around the dunes while the sun rises. The activities at the dunes last till 6:30 pm giving the tourists the option of riding along with the sunset as well.
The one-hour adventure is exhilarating and includes sandboarding lessons for beginners. Although the dunes are primarily for adrenaline, the view of the South China Sea is soothing to the soul.
Educate Yourself at the Ilocos Norte Museum:
Learning the rich heritage and culture of your holiday spot is a necessity. So a visit to the Ilocos Norte Museum is one of the most educative things to do in Laoag. The museum is set up in a refurbished warehouse but filled with historical gems from the Spanish era.
This museum is Utopia for history geeks as it showcases the tools and traditional clothing of the Ilocano people. The museum is kept open throughout the week, so if you find yourself having a slow day in Laoag, take a quick trip around this small museum.
Idolize the Beauty of the Sinking Bell Tower:
Italy was blessed with the architectural wonder of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, while Laoag City proudly houses the Sinking Bell Tower. It is one of the tallest bell towers in the Philippines standing at 45 meters. Visiting this bell tower is one of the most important things to do in Laoag.
The tower sinks an inch each year and hence is called the Sinking Bell Tower. The weight of the structure, along with the fact that it was built on sandy ground contributes to its sinking. Unlike most bell towers, this one is situated away from the cathedral but beautifully lit up in the night.
Take a Drive to Witness the Immaculate Splendor of the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation:
Just an hour’s drive from Laoag is the rocky coast of Burgos on the northwestern tip of Ilocos Norte. The name Kapurpurawan derived from the Ilocano term ‘paw’ that means ‘white’. The pure white and limestone formation is another marvel of nature that has been sculpted by the natural process of sedimentation.
While the rocks are a beauty by themselves, the crystal blue waters of Bangui Bay make the experience even more appealing. Sit on your foundation of choice and gaze at the dramatic thumping of waves against the limestone rocks to capture that perfect mental image.
Gaze at an Important Cultural Property:
Santa Monica Parish Church:
This church was built back in 1779 and dubbed as a valuable cultural property by the Philippines government. It is the biggest church in all of Ilocos Norte making it one of the most important things to do in Laoag. The ancient church built with red bricks also features a clock tower that strikes every half-hour.
Visit the Historic Bacarra Domeless Tower:
In 1830, this tower was 50 meters tall, but due to two earthquakes, the dome of the tower was destroyed. It led to the tower being renamed the ‘Dignified Domeless Belltower in Asia.’
A visit to this exquisite ancient tower is assumed to be one of the best things to do in Laoag. You can also check out the Museo de Bacarra, which houses several ancient artifacts and is located near the Bacarra Tower.
Take a Peaceful Walk around Rizal Amusement Park:
Unlike most amusement parks, the Rizal Amusement Park does not have a Ferris wheel, but its serene atmosphere is amusing enough for tourists and locals. Many visit this park to relax on the green grass while gazing at the beautiful fountain that lights up at night.
Also, remember to take a look at the Jose Rizal statue that was set up in 1957 in honor of this Philippines’ national hero. The renovated park now houses a swimming pool, a mini zoo, a picnic area, and a playground.
See the Beauty of Man Meeting Nature at the Aurora Park:
Situated in the south of the Ilocos Norte Capitol is the Aurora Park with the statue of the maiden Pamulinawen. With old-fashioned window fixtures and traditional archways, this park is a fantastic piece of architecture.
The park has a beautiful dancing fountain surrounded by lush green palm trees. A 360-degree view of the park will leave you in awe as the park is surrounded by other historical monuments like the Tobacco Monopoly Monument and the Marcos Hall of Justice. Sitting amongst man-made beauty and natural beauty is hands down one of the best things to do in Laoag.
This ultimate Laoag travel guide includes 9 of the best things to do in Laoag, especially for first-time travelers. However, the essential part of planning a trip is to find cheap flight tickets to the Philippines. iEagle gives out a list of airlines that provide direct flights from the USA to the Philippines. Compare the airline prices and book your ticket to the Land of Light.
