So you’ve just touched down in the Philippines and are making your way through the dreaded Manila airport. Where’s the surf man?! You’re practically ITCHING to get out of the city and head to your nearest dose of sun, sea and waves. Luckily for you, there’s a lil town going by the name of La Union.
Just four hours north of Manila, La Union feels like a world away from the metropolis of the capital. The province of La Union and the city of San Fernando are well known for being one of the best surf destinations in the world! Even if you’re not in search of surf, you’ll be greeted here with insane beaches and a little razzle dazzle of nature throughout.
La Union is considered a bit more off the beaten path and usual backpacker trail for most travellers. Great for those looking for a more authentic getaway, not so great if you’re like me and are a sucker for a good hostel.
Luckily, I’ve done the legwork for you. My ultimate guide to the best hostels in La Union will have you checked in and out on the waves before you can say, one San Miguel please.
Let’s dive in.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in La Union
The 3 Best Hostels in La Union
1. The Circle Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in La Union
- Dorm (mixed): From $19
- Private Room: From $72
- Address: The Circle Hostel, Barangay Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, La Union, Philippines
The Circle Hostel is one of the few places in La Union where you can find that true backpacker atmosphere. While other guesthouses and dormitories lack a laid-back vibe that bring other solo travellers in the Philippines together, The Circle Hostel is one of the most popular hostels to just kick back and hang out!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Stylishly Designed
- Surf Lessons
- Super Chill
It’s not just the social atmosphere and lounges that will make you want to click that “book” button. This Filipino hostel is located in the heart of San Jose, La Union, meaning you will be minutes away from great restaurants and a hopping nightlife! Urbiztondo Beach is practically on your doorstep so living your best beach bum life is as easy as you like.
If you’re planning to visit La Union for sun, surf, and good times, this is the spot to be. The staff are super friendly and can even help plan your La Union itinerary too.
2. Flotsam and Jetsam Artist Beach Hostel La Union – Best Hostel in La Union for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Address: 12500 B – National Highway, Urbiztondo San Juan, La Union, La Union, Philippines
This place has a vibe you can’t help but love. The location’s spot on—Urbiztondo Beach and San Juan beach is right out back, there’s a lively atmosphere in the evenings and loads of great food spots nearby. Flotsam and Jetsam is the result of the owner’s love for travel and adventure, creating a space filled with art, music, style, design, and all-around good vibes for backpackers in the Philippines.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super Cool Communal Spaces
- A Short Walk to Urbiztondo Beach
- On-site Restaurant
The staff are super professional and welcoming, and while the dorms are basic, they’re comfy and get the job done. It’s all about the experience here, and this place nails it.
The location is great and you can easily check out all the top attractions in La Union from here!
3. The Escape San Juan – Best Hostel for Groups in La Union
- Private Room: From $181
- Address: 170 National High Way, Urbiztondo, San Juan La Union, La Union, Philippines
The Escape is perfectly planted right in front of the beach in San Juan, La Union. If you’re big into your surf and are figuring out where to stay in the Philippines, don’t miss out on La Union. You’ll be set for sea views and watching surfers take on the waves.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- On-site Bar
- Clean and Modern Amenities
- Private Bathrooms
The rooms are geared for groups—friends or families up to six—since dorms here are booked as a whole. So, rally the crew and make it your own!
Rooms are clean and ideal for a short stay in La Union. Just outside, there’s a spacious patio with sweeping sea views, plus drying racks by each room for all your beach gear. Food stalls dishing up authentic Filipino dishes, cafes, and San Juan Beach are all steps away, and the staff are super friendly both on reception and the tour desk and quick to help with anything you need.
More Epic Hostels and Budget Stays in La Union
Surfers villa
- Private Room: From $77
- Address: Urbiztondo Road, 2514 San Juan, Philippines
These private bungalows keep it sweet and simple, covering all the essentials. The location’s on point—just a short walk to San Juan Beach, bars, and plenty of places to eat.
With open spaces and a chill vibe that’s all about communal living, it’s a magnet for meeting interesting people. La Union has seen a surge in tourism in recent years, and this spot is perfect for solo travellers looking to meet others doing the same. The staff are super helpful and genuinely welcoming, making it easy to feel at home.
La Union Cabins
- Private Room: From $20
- Address: San Juan, Ilocos Region, Philippines
La Union Cabins offers a peaceful retreat just a few minutes from the beach—you can even hear the waves from your cabin which is absolutely dreamy. The spacious garden is ideal if you’re travelling with pets, and the hosts are incredibly accommodating and responsive. Plus, the resident dogs are an added perk, always around to give you a warm welcome!
Wanting to get out and meet other travellers? This guesthouse also has shared lounges and a kitchen which is perfect for socialising with your fellow travellers.
If you want to go out on the town, your room is just minutes away from downtown San Juan, La Union meaning all of the best bars and restaurants and just a few steps away from your door!
Surfers Rest Guest House
- Private Room: From $19
- Address: San Juan, Ilocos Region, Philippines
If you’re after a solid base while scouting for your next big wave, this spot has you covered. The owners are warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home.
Rooms are clean and kitted out with everything you need for a comfy stay including a private bathroom with separate showers, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. The location couldn’t be better—close to the beach, restaurants, ATMs, and all the essentials.
The Golden Room
- Private Room: From $36
- Address: San Juan, Ilocos Region, Philippines
If you’re coming to visit La Union for a bit of R&R, this spot is great. It’s clean, cosy, and has a thoughtful touch in its decor, with a balcony view that’s hard to beat. Free water’s on hand, and you’re near the heart of the surf scene in La Union.
The location is ideal—close to all the best spots in La Union, from food joints to must-see sights. It’s perfect if you’re not a fan of street noise but love exploring local eateries. The host is super responsive, making sure you’re all set for a great stay.
CV Bed & Bath San Juan
CV Bed & Bath is another one of the few dormitories found in La Union. With cheap beds, a garden, a shared kitchen, and lounges perfect for kicking back and chilling, this hostel will be the perfect place to call home while exploring the beaches and mountains!
Top it all off with a cheap breakfast every morning before you head out to San Juan Beach, and you have the perfect hostel to base yourself out of while staying in La Union!
NJT Guesthouse
Needing a break from the hostels for a few days and want to find yourself a private room? NJT Guesthouse has some of the cheapest single rooms in all of La Union along with a location just a few minutes away from the beach.
Putting you right smack in the middle of San Jose, you will be sure to find slews of mini markets, restaurants, and bars just a few steps away from NJT Guesthouse.
The icing on top is that this guesthouse also serves up its very own breakfast, meaning you can scarf down that delicious meal early in the morning before heading out to explore more of San Jose and La Union!
Villa Elita
Are you a backpacker on a budget in the Philippines still wanting a resort-like experience? Villa Elita is a hotel in La Union where you can pamper yourself without totally bleeding your wallet dry! This budget hotel raises the bar and offers a private bathroom, a bar, a swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and even a garden!
Although the beach is just a few minutes down the road, you may find it hard to tear yourself away from the comfort of the pool and bar! With a chill, relaxing atmosphere and great staff, you are sure to find yourself extending your stay night after night at Villa Elita!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting La Union
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on La Union’s Hostels
La Union has all of the beaches and surf you’d expect from other Filipino islands but with a hell of a lot less of the crowds that come with it. And with this guide you can spend more time brushing up on your surfing skills and less looking for dorm beds online!
Still undecided on where to stay in La Union? If you’re looking for that spot where the backpackers congregate then I’d go with The Circle Hostel. As much as La Union isn’t as bustling as other spots on the usual backpacker trail, you’ll still be able to meet other travellers here and sink a San Miguel or two.
Grab your surfboards and get ready to catch some waves, it’s going to be a good’en.
Have you stayed in a hostel in La Union that didn’t make it on my list? Shoot me a comment down below so I can put it on my radar!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in the Philippines for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in La Union before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
