Pagudpud and the Bangui Windmills
A row of giant wind turbines along a wild northern shore, and some of Luzon's best beaches just around the headland.
Quick answer
- What it is: the Bangui Wind Farm, the first wind farm in Southeast Asia, and the beaches and cliffs of nearby Pagudpud.
- The windmills: a single row of turbines stretching along the shore of Bangui Bay, opened in 2005.
- Pagudpud: white beaches like Saud and Blue Lagoon, and the Patapat Viaduct along the coast.
- Getting there: fly to Laoag, then about 1.5 to 2 hours by road; or a long overnight bus from Manila.
- Best time: the dry months, roughly November to May.
Why it is a wonder
On the shore of Bangui Bay, a line of tall white wind turbines marches along a wide, wind-whipped beach, their blades turning slowly over the waves. When the Bangui Wind Farm began operating in 2005, it was the first wind farm in Southeast Asia, and it quickly became one of the most recognisable sights in Ilocos Norte.
Just around the headland is Pagudpud, at the northern tip of Luzon, with some of the island’s finest beaches. Saud Beach has soft white sand and clear water in the dry season, and the coast road runs along the Patapat Viaduct, curving above the sea at the foot of the mountains.
Beat the crowds
- See the windmills early or late. The light is softer, and tour vans come in the middle of the day.
- Stay in Pagudpud rather than doing a day trip from Laoag.
- Visit outside Holy Week and summer weekends for quieter beaches.
Getting there
Fly from Manila to Laoag, then go north by bus or van, about 1.5 to 2 hours to Pagudpud, with Bangui on the way. Overnight buses also run from Manila, taking around 12 hours. See our guide to getting around the Philippines.
A perfect day
- Walk the beach below the Bangui windmills in the morning.
- Stop at Kapurpurawan and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in nearby Burgos.
- Swim at Saud Beach in the afternoon.
- Drive the Patapat Viaduct before sunset.
Through the seasons
- November to May: dry and sunny, with the calmest water for swimming from about March to May.
- June to October: rain and typhoons; seas can be rough and roads affected.
Respect the place
Strong currents are common on this coast, so swim only where locals do and in calm conditions. Don’t climb fences around the turbines, and leave the beaches as clean as you found them.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Bangui Wind Farm famous?
It was the first commercial wind farm in Southeast Asia when it began operating in 2005, and its single row of turbines along a long, empty beach became an icon of Ilocos Norte.
Can I walk among the windmills?
Yes. There is a viewing area and you can walk along the beach below the turbines. Swimming is not advised, as the waves and currents can be strong.
Where are the best beaches in Pagudpud?
Saud Beach is the best known, with fine white sand. Blue Lagoon (Maira-ira) is popular too. Both are calmer and best for swimming in the dry season.
What else is nearby?
The Kapurpurawan rock formations and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, and the Patapat Viaduct along the coast road.
Can I combine this with Vigan?
Yes. Many visitors do an Ilocos loop: Vigan, Paoay Church, Laoag, then north to Bangui and Pagudpud.
Surfing in La Union
The surf town closest to Manila, with gentle waves for first-timers and a relaxed beach scene of cafes and sunsets.
We checked this guide against the 4 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.
