This Northern Philippine Beach Has the Beauty of Boracay Without the Buzz
This article may contain affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission whenever you book or purchase something through our links (at no extra cost to you!). You can find more information in our disclaimer.
Wondering what are the best beaches in Pagudpud for an awesome experience? Read on!
Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte is known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines.
On our last visit, my family and I enjoyed spending time at Saud Beach, known for its clear blue waters, soft white sand, and peaceful vibe—perfect for a break from city life. ✨
We hope to return to this province and visit more of the beaches in Pagudpud.
If you’re planning a trip up north, this guide will introduce you to the beaches in Pagudpud and share tips on the best beach resorts where you can unwind and enjoy the natural charm of this coastal spot.
Most Beautiful Beach: Saud Beach
Best for Water Activities: Blue Lagoon
Beach for Quiter Retreats: Pasaleng Beach
3 Best Beaches in Pagudpud
Locations of the beaches in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.
Pagudpud, located in the northernmost part of Ilocos Norte, is a paradise for beach lovers and the beaches of Pagudpud are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.
Some beaches have white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters (even hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!) and some are perfect for water activities like windsurfing!
Let’s dive in and learn about the beaches in Pagudpud! 🌊
1. Saud Beach 🏖️
If you’re looking for a laid-back day by the sea, Saud Beach (aka “North Boracay” or “Boracay of the North”) has a lot to offer.
The sand here is soft and stretches along a clear, inviting shoreline. Thus, it was listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by Travel+Leisure. ✨
This spot is great for a casual swim and for catching some sun. You can easily set up a spot on the beach or find a place nearby that serves local food.
Some places in Saud Beach also offer water activities like kayaking and jetskiing.
The sunset here is one to remember, so plan to stay until evening if you can. Saud Beach is also close to a few places to stay, making it easy if you’re considering an overnight trip.
Sign up now to grab your FREE guide to 50 hidden gems in the Philippines!
🌊 Beach Resorts in Saud Beach
🛏️ Palm Grove Saud Holiday Complex Hotel ⭐⭐
Located 200 meters from Saud Beach, this hotel is ideal if you’re visiting Pagudpud with your family or friends for a weekend or vacation.
The hotel has an on-site restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool. The spacious rooms are spotless and the staff are very accommodating and always ready to assist you with a smile.
Other than its proximity to the beach, Palm Grove Saud Holiday Complex Hotel is also pet-friendly. It’s a plus if you’re traveling with your furbabies.
🛏️ Villa Naranja (Seville) Pagudpud 🥇
A very exceptional place to stay near Saud Beach and your home away from home is the Villa Naranja (Seville) Pagudpud.
This villa has a kitchen with the necessary tools and utensils if you feel like making food during your vacation.
Some highlights of this place are its swimming pool, impeccable rooms, and of course, the very friendly staff that worked here.
This is a top place to stay near one of the beaches of Pagudpud, especially if you’re visiting in groups and want a more relaxed and pampered vacation.
2. Blue Lagoon 🏖️
Blue Lagoon is known for its strikingly clear blue water, and it’s one of the main draws in Pagudpud.
The beach here is a good choice if you like water activities. You’ll find locals offering paddleboards, and kayaks for rent if you want to get on the water.
The waves can be a bit stronger here, which is ideal if you’re interested in surfing or bodyboarding. Nearby, there are a few small spots where you can get refreshments.
For a bit of variety, there are also scenic viewpoints around the area if you want to see the beach from a higher spot.
📢 Join the community! Make sure you join our Philippines Hidden Gems – Travel Community. This is the place to ask any questions about your trip, to be inspired, and to connect with other Philippines travelers. Click here to join!
🌊 Beach Resorts in Blue Lagoon
🛏️ Ikani Surf Resort ⭐⭐⭐
Ikani Surf Resort is a property that offers everything you need when you visit the main attraction of this area.
It’s located 440 meters from Maira-ira Beach or Blue Lagoon and it has a peaceful ambiance with native design villas.
It has a very accommodating staff, an outdoor pool, a spa, and restaurant that serves great food to enhance your stay.
Comfortable and clean rooms range from family villas, bungalows, suites, executive suites, deluxe, and spacious rooms fit for bigger groups.
This place is pet-friendly and offers activities like guided tours, hiking, and surfing lessons.
🛏️ Jay Henry Transient Beach House ⭐⭐⭐
If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay near Blue Lagoon, this place is for you.
Jay Henry Transient Beach house is budget-friendly with beachfront access and basic room amenities such as free Wi-Fi and parking.
This place is also ideal if you’re traveling in big groups. Pets are also allowed and the staff is very accommodating to anything you need.
3. Pasaleng Beach 🏖️
Pasaleng Beach is a quieter spot, perfect if you want to get away from the busier areas. This beach is tucked away a bit more, giving it a relaxed and calm feel.
The rocky parts of the shore create a unique landscape, and it’s a good place if you enjoy exploring tide pools or want a peaceful walk.
You might also spot local fishermen working, adding to the laid-back vibe.
It’s less developed than the other beaches in Pagudpud, so be sure to bring any essentials with you.
🌊 Beach Resort in Pasaleng Beach
🛏️ Pannzian Beach Resort ⭐⭐⭐
A secret gem in Pagudpud near Pasaleng Beach, Pannzian Beach Resort is an ideal place if you really want to disconnect and enjoy a vacation.
You may find the internet connection to be weak.
Still, it’s a silver lining to enjoy the wide range of activities you can do at the resort including snorkeling, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, non-motorized water sports, windsurfing, or just relaxing on the beach.
Clean and comfortable rooms are air-conditioned, have a nature view outside, basic amenities, and you can also choose from a villa, cottage, duplex, or dormitory room that suits you best.
How to Get Around Pagudpud?
🛺 Tricycles
The most common way to get around is by tricycle. You can hire one for short rides or arrange a day tour with a local driver to see all the major tourist spots in Ilocos Norte like Saud Beach, Blue Lagoon, Patapat Viaduct, and the Bangui Windmills. Tricycle tours are usually affordable and flexible.
🛵 Motorbike Rentals
For a bit more freedom, some locals offer motorbike rentals. This lets you explore at your own pace, but you’ll need some experience driving on rural roads.
🚗 Private Car
If you’re traveling with a group, consider renting a car or hiring a private driver. This can be arranged in advance from Laoag or through some local contacts in Pagudpud.
🚶🏻♀️ Walking
If you’re staying near Saud Beach, walking is a pleasant way to explore nearby areas, as many resorts, restaurants, and shops are close by.
🚙 Tour Packages
Some local operators offer tour packages that include transportation to the main sights around Pagudpud. These packages often cover multiple stops in one day and may include guides. Booking a tour package is convenient if you want a hassle-free way to see everything without arranging individual rides.
Best Time to Visit the Beaches in Pagudpud
You’ll find that the best time to visit the beaches in Pagudpud is from November to May.
This is the dry season when you can expect sunny skies and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The temperatures are warm, and you won’t have to deal with heavy rain.
If you prefer a quieter time at the beach, consider going in November or May. These months usually have nice weather but fewer tourists.
If you’re interested in local culture, check out any festivals happening nearby, like the Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts in May.
For those who love water sports like surfing, the waves at Blue Lagoon are usually best between December and February.
This is when you can enjoy great conditions for surfing and bodyboarding.
What to Pack?
🧴 Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the strong tropical sun. A good SPF lip balm can also be helpful.
👙 Swimwear: Whether you’re planning to swim or just relax by the shore, pack a few swimsuits, swim trunks, or a rash guard if you want extra sun protection.
🥻 Beach Towel: A quick-drying towel or sarong will come in handy for sitting on the sand or drying off after a dip.
🩴 Footwear: Flip-flops or beach sandals are best for sandy areas and are easy to slip off when you’re ready to jump in the water.
🎒 Waterproof Bag: Protect your essentials like your phone, wallet, and camera with a waterproof bag to keep them dry.
🥤 Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially under the sun. A refillable water bottle can save you from having to buy plastic bottles.
🍬 Snacks and Refreshments: Pack some snacks, fresh fruit, or other light treats along with refreshing drinks, so you have something to enjoy during your beach day.
📸 Camera or GoPro: You’ll want to capture the stunning coastline and your time in the water, so don’t forget a camera or waterproof GoPro.
🎽 Light Clothing: In addition to swimwear, pack a few light, breathable clothes to wear when exploring nearby spots or grabbing a bite after beach time.
💊 First Aid Kit: It’s always a good idea to bring essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications, just in case.
💵 Cash: Many local shops and vendors may prefer cash, so having some on hand can be helpful for small purchases or food stands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrapping-Up: Best Beaches in Pagudpud
Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, has beaches that offer a peaceful escape and plenty of natural beauty.
Each beach has its own appeal, whether it’s the calm waters at Saud Beach, the clear blue seas at Blue Lagoon, or the quiet shores of Pasaleng Beach.
Here, you can relax on the sand, swim in refreshing waters, or explore the unique coastlines that make this part of the Philippines special.
If you’re looking for a beach getaway where you can enjoy both relaxation and scenic views, the beaches in Pagudpud are ready to welcome you.
🗺️ Travel Resources for Your Ilocos Norte Trip
Getting ready for an Ilocos Norte getaway? Here’s a list of trusted tools and websites to help you book transport, places to stay, tours, and everything else you might need.
How to Get to Ilocos Norte– Take a bus from Manila to Laoag via Partas, GV Florida Transport, or 12Go, or book a flight to Laoag International Airport with Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines.
Where to Book Your Stay – Find hotels in Laoag, beach resorts in Pagudpud, and homestays across the province using Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb, or Vrbo for larger groups or family trips.
Getting Around the Province – Rent a car with Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com, hire a tricycle for short distances, take a bus or jeepney for longer trips, or book private tours with a local guide for full-day sightseeing.
Book Tours and Activities – Explore windmills, sand dunes, and historical spots through Klook, Viator, or GetYourGuide, or ask your hotel about locally arranged tours around Laoag, Burgos, and Pagudpud.
Stay Connected – Use an Airalo eSIM for stable data coverage, rent pocket WiFi for the whole group from Klook, or grab a Smart or Globe SIM card at major terminals or shops in Laoag.
Cash, ATMs, and Payments – Bring enough pesos for smaller towns, as many establishments still prefer cash, and ATMs may be limited outside Laoag.
Travel Insurance – Get insured for road trips, medical emergencies, or travel delays through SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads, especially if you plan to drive or explore remote areas.
Check Out These Recommended Articles:
- Visiting the Bangui Windmills in Ilocos Norte: Is it Worth a Visit ?
- 9 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Ilocos Norte for Your Next Adventure (+2 Exciting Activities to Try!)
- The Paoay Sand Dunes in Ilocos – The Ultimate Guide
- 11 Top Tourist Spots in Ilocos Sur for Your Next Adventure (+3 Awesome Activities To Try!)
- Exploring the Best 13 Beach Resorts in Pagudpud: Your Perfect Coastal Getaway
- Hidden Mindanao Beaches You Can Only Reach by Unique Transportation
- Is Wawa Dam in Rizal Worth A Visit?
About the Author
Hey, I’m Krisia, one of the key writers at Philippines Hidden Gems, where I blend my love for writing with the chaos and joy of being a mom to my two beautiful children.
Although I’ve spent most of my life in Marikina City, I embarked on a new chapter when I tied the knot and moved to Rizal. I cherish family time at home but jump at any chance to travel!
Join me as I explore and showcase the wonders of the Philippines, and let’s discover together if it’s truly a destination worth visiting!
