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Kick Your North Trip a Notch with These 5 Best Outdoor Activities in Ilocos Norte

There are many things to do in Ilocos Norte, with its tourist spots around!

By: Antonette Louise Guiao | January 01, 2023
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You’ll be amazed at the exciting things waiting for you in Ilocos Norte!

Image: Paoay Sand Dunes Facebook page

The northern region has many unique destinations suited for all kinds of trips. Whether you want to chill down by the beach side, try an exciting sport, or see a historical landmark, you don’t need to go any further north for the best outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte.

This charming province in the north houses an endless list of places filled with various things to do in Ilocos Norte. If you’re planning your next post-quarantine trip, there’s no better place to visit than these Ilocos Norte tourist spots! Wondering what to do when you get there? Worry no more, for this list contains only the best outdoor activities you can do to make your Ilocos trip worthwhile. Read on and find out the best outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte.


1. Go sandboarding in Paoay Sand Dunes.

Best For: Adrenaline adventure


Outdoor Activities in Ilocos Norte - Things To Do in Ilocos Norte, outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte

Ride down Paoay’s lovely dunes!

Image: @heyaudreeeey

These Ilocos Norte tourist spots will get your adrenaline rushing in your veins by trying out sandboarding at the Paoay Sand Dunes! Sandboarding is almost like surfing, minus the waters and the waves. There are two sandboarding areas: one has a starting point of 10 feet and is recommended for beginners, while the second has a starting point of 20 feet. Sandboarding takes a lot of balance; don’t be discouraged when you stumble because you can always try again! This is one of the must-try outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte and other things to do in Ilocos Norte.

You can also try the 4x4 ride within the desert for a more extreme adventure. Don’t worry because you will be guided by an expert driver.


2. Visit the Sinking Bell Tower in Laoag City.

Best For: Historical trip


Outdoor Activities in Ilocos Norte - Things To Do in Ilocos Norte, things to do in Ilocos Norte

The Sinking Bell Tower’s name is literal: it sinks to the ground at about one inch per year.

Images: @nadbronce

One of the many historical attractions in the heart of Laoag is the famous Sinking Bell Tower. Constructed in 1612 by the Augustinians, to complete your outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte, you must visit the local landmark, just like the 150-foot bell tower that has stood the test of time and is said to hold stories of war, mystery, and survival. The building is said to be sinking, for it was erected on soft, sandy foundations. The bell tower is more fascinating because it has already survived a massive typhoon, fire, and even earthquakes, yet it remains solid and steady. Don’t miss the chance to visit this Ilocos Norte tourist spot before it sinks!



3. Take a day trip to Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud.

Best For: Water activities


Outdoor Activities in Ilocos Norte - Things To Do in Ilocos Norte, outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte

Get a dose of Mr. Sun at Blue Lagoon Beach.

Image: @asmtravel

One of the outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte you can do is soak up the sun and catch the waves at the Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud! Also known as Maira-ira Beach, Blue Lagoon boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft, warm sand. If you feel relaxed, you can always bum out on the sand while listening to the peaceful ocean waves. You can enjoy these things in Ilocos Norte inland and water activities at the beach, including an exciting zipline ride and a banana boat ride with your family or barkada.


4. Hike at the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos

Best For: Natural attractions


Outdoor Activities in Ilocos Norte - Things To Do in Ilocos Norte, things to do in Ilocos Norte

Be rewarded with one of Mother Nature’s creations and go hiking at this rock formation.

Image: @martin.santos.353

Here are the things to do in Ilocos Norte; if you love adventures, these outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte are perfect for you; visiting the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is one of Ilocos Norte’s tourist spots with the most breathtaking natural attractions. Because of a natural process called sedimentation, a rock formation made of ivory limestone was formed. The rock formation earned its name from the Ilocano word “puraw” which means “white”. Its creamy white rock sculptures and limestone formations make the coast of Burgos an excellent location to go hiking or trekking. These outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte are worth trying.



5. Cross the Country’s 4th Longest Bridge at the Patapat Viaduct in Pagudpud

Best For: Road trips


Outdoor Activities in Ilocos Norte - Things To Do in Ilocos Norte, outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte

Did you know that Ilocos Norte houses the country’s 4th longest bridge?

Image: @theboywhowantedtofly

Considered one of the most photographed destinations in the region, the Patapat Viaduct stretches to a total of 1.3 kilometers and is elevated at 30 meters above sea level. This Ilocos Norte tourist spot is famous for road trip activities. The viaduct has long been considered one of the favorite roads of drivers and motorists to drive on because traversing it means getting a spectacular, unobstructed view of the sea, skies, and lush mountains. It has also helped solve many landslide problems that cause major vehicular accidents in the province.


If you haven’t decided what to do when you step foot in Ilocos, Here are the outdoor activities in Ilocos Norte.


For more travel guides about Ilocos Norte tourist spots, check out Yoorekka Magazine to learn more!


Stay safe as you travel! Make sure to follow social distancing protocols and observe health precautions wherever you go. Have a great trip!


This article was initially published in Yoorekka on September 29, 2020.


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About Antonette Louise Guiao
Antonette is a writer, a night owl, an extrovert, and a BTS ARMY. Her spare time is consumed by drawing digital vector art, sleeping, binge-watching Netflix series, and learning how to cook. An adventurer by heart, she aspires to travel the world with her family, try extreme outdoor activities, and taste all sorts of food in different countries.
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Disclaimer: All articles in the Consumers Magazine of Yoorekka are for general information and entertainment purposes only. Although careful research has been made in writing them, Yoorekka does not make any warranty about the completeness and accuracy of all information presented in our articles. Our content is not intended to be used in place of legal, medical, or any professional advice.
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