Ilocos Norte Itinerary With Kids

Located in the northernmost part of Luzon, Ilocos Norte is a province rich in history and culture. It boasts a diverse range of attractions, from heritage sites and natural wonders to mouth-watering cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines with kids and are looking for a different kind of adventure, consider this Ilocos Norte itinerary.

Things to Do in Ilocos Norte With Kids

There are many things to see and do, from exploring historical sites to playing in the sand. Here are a few ideas for your Ilocos Norte itinerary:

1. Visit Paoay Church: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most famous churches in the Philippines. It is known for its massive stone walls and towering belfries.
2. Go sandboarding in Bangui: This is a popular activity for kids of all ages. Sandboarding is similar to snowboarding, but instead of snow, you ride down sand dunes.
3. Take a dip in the stunning Pagudpud Beach: Experience the crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and picturesque views of the coastline.
4. Visit the Kapurpurawan Rock Formations: These white limestone formations are a sight to behold. They are located in the town of Burgos, about an hour’s drive from Laoag City.
5. Take a boat trip to the Paoay Sandbar: This is a great place to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe. The sandbar is located in the middle of the sea, and it is only accessible by boat.
6. Visit Vigan Heritage City: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is full of Spanish colonial architecture. Part of Ilocus Sur, you’ll pass through it on your way to Ilocos Norte. Vigan is a historic town. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobblestone streets.
7. Try the local food: Ilocos Norte is known for its delicious food. Some of the must-try dishes include bagnet (fried pork belly), longganisa (Filipino sausage), and sinanglaw (fish salad).
8. Visit the Bangui Wind Farm: Take a tour of the massive wind turbines, providing renewable energy to the province.

Where to Stay in Ilocos Norte With Kids

Here are five family-friendly hotels in Ilocos Norte:

1. Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel – a beachfront resort with spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
2. Java Hotel – a stylish and modern hotel with a pool, playground, and spacious rooms.
3. Playa Tropical Resort Hotel – a serene resort with elegant rooms and a relaxing pool.
4. Northview Hotel – a budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and friendly staff.
5. Grand Octagon Resort – a peaceful retreat with cozy rooms and stunning ocean views.

Where to Eat in Ilocos Norte With Kids

Here are five family-friendly restaurants to include in your Ilocos Norte itinerary:

1. Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant and Bar – This restaurant in Laoag serves authentic Ilocano cuisine with a modern twist.
2. La Preciosa – This restaurant in Laoag offers a variety of local dishes, including their famous Bagnet.
3. Herencia Café – This restaurant in Paoay is known for its famous Pinakbet Pizza, a fusion of Italian and Ilocano cuisine.
4. Johnny Moon Café – This café in Pagudpud serves delicious breakfast, sandwiches, and coffee.
5. Kapuluan Vista Resort Restaurant – This restaurant in Pagudpud offers a menu of Filipino and international cuisine, with a beachfront view.

When to Go to Ilocos Norte

The best time to visit Ilocos Norte is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rain. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy all that Ilocos Norte has to offer, from its beautiful beaches and sand dunes to its historical sites and cultural attractions.

If you’re looking to avoid crowds, you may want to consider visiting Ilocos Norte during the shoulder seasons (May to October). The weather is still pleasant during these months, but there is a slightly higher chance of rain.

How Long to Stay in Ilocos Norte

To fully explore and enjoy Ilocos Norte, we recommend staying for at least 3 to 4 days. This will give you enough time to visit the top attractions, explore the beaches, try local cuisine, and engage in outdoor activities.

Family Itinerary in Ilocos Norte

Day 1:

• Start the day with breakfast at Café Leona.
• Visit the historic town of Vigan and take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobblestone streets.
• Have lunch at Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant and Bar.
• Visit the Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site and marvel at its intricate architecture.
• End the day with dinner at La Preciosa.

Day 2:

• Start the day with breakfast at Bistro Amarillo.
• Take a dip in the stunning Pagudpud Beach and experience the crystal-clear waters.
• Have lunch at the local restaurants in Pagudpud.
• Go sandboarding in the La Paz Sand Dunes and enjoy the scenic views of the beach.

• Visit the Bangui Wind Farm, and take a tour of the massive wind turbines.
• End the day with dinner at Herencia Café.

Day 3:

• Start the day with breakfast at the hotel.
• Take a dip in the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation’s cool waters, a natural wonder of white limestone cliffs.
• Visit the Malacañang of the North, a presidential museum showcasing the life of the former president, Ferdinand Marcos.
• Have lunch at Casa Consuelo Resort – Beach Front.
• Spend the afternoon at the hotel’s amenities, such as the pool or spa.
• End the day with dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

How to Get Around Ilocos Norte

The best way to get around Ilocos Norte is by renting a car or hiring a private van with a driver. It’s also possible to use tricycles or jeepneys for shorter distances.

Ilocos Norte is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural wonders and delicious cuisine, Ilocos Norte is a great place to visit with your family. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can make the most out of your trip and create unforgettable memories.