Ilocos Sand Dunes
A strip of desert-like dunes on the Ilocos coast, made for 4x4 rides, sandboarding and huge sunsets.
Quick answer
- Where: the coast of Ilocos Norte, mainly at Suba in Paoay and at La Paz in Laoag City.
- What to do: ride a 4x4 over the dunes, try sandboarding, or take an ATV.
- On screen: the dunes have appeared in Filipino films, including Himala.
- Getting there: a short drive or tricycle ride from Laoag or Paoay.
- Best time: late afternoon in the dry season, roughly November to April.
Why it is a wonder
The Philippines is not the first country you think of for a desert, but the coast of Ilocos Norte has a long belt of sand dunes, shaped by the wind off the West Philippine Sea. The two most popular areas are Suba in Paoay and La Paz in Laoag City.
The dunes are pure fun. Drivers in open 4x4s charge up and plunge down the slopes like a roller coaster, then stop at the top so you can sandboard back down. They have also been a backdrop for Filipino films, including the classic Himala.
Beat the crowds
- Go in the late afternoon, after the midday heat, and stay for sunset.
- Book ahead on weekends and holidays.
Getting there
Both sites are a short drive from Laoag: La Paz is near the city, while Suba is close to Paoay Church and the Malacañang of the North. Tricycles and vans can take you, or book a ride with an operator that includes pick-up. See our Ilocos guide.
A perfect day
- Visit Paoay Church, one of the UNESCO-listed Baroque churches. See our Baroque churches guide.
- Eat empanada in Batac for lunch.
- Ride the dunes in the late afternoon.
- Watch the sun set over the sea from the top of a dune.
Through the seasons
- November to April: dry, sunny and windy.
- March to May: very hot in the middle of the day.
- June to October: rain and typhoons can close the rides.
Respect the place
Ride only with registered operators, stay inside marked areas, and take your rubbish with you. The dunes are fragile, even if they look empty.
Frequently asked questions
Paoay or La Paz?
Both offer similar 4x4 and sandboarding rides. Suba in Paoay is near Paoay Church and the Malacañang of the North; La Paz is closer to Laoag city centre.
Is sandboarding hard?
Not really. Most people sit or lie on the board for the first runs. Guides show you how.
When is the best time of day?
Late afternoon, when the heat eases and the sun sets over the sea.
Can children ride the 4x4?
Usually yes, with an adult, but the ride is bumpy and fast. Ask operators about their safety rules.
Bolinao
A laid-back corner of Pangasinan with white sand, cave pools, waterfalls and a lighthouse on the cliffs.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
