La Union has been bursting with so much life after being tagged as the Surfing Capital of the North. A lot of cool places to hang out have popped up so fast, out of nowhere, making it one of the hippest vacay spots out there today. Without a doubt, when you say “eLyU,” you’ll instantly think of the endless fun weekend warriors have from the sun, the sand, and the riptide. But, La Union is more than that. Beyond the waves and trendy spots, the region is also making its mark in the art scene. To understand exactly what we mean, visit these artsy places in your next La Union trip.

Culture and Art Gallery of La Union (3/L Lupac Bldg., San Fernando, La Union)

Also known as “Silid ti Adal ken Laing ti La Union,” the art gallery features the work of La Union’s local artists. Each masterpiece highlights the eccentric styles and techniques of various artists. Since its launch in 2012, they have been doing nothing else than reviving the local art scene in the La Union province. Their main goal is to be known as the art hub of the Ilocos region.

Bahay na Bato Open Art Gallery (Brgy. Nalvo Borte, Luna, La Union)

This “secret hideaway” is tucked within the serene barangay of Nalvo Borte. It used to be a rest house owned by Dr. Edison and Dr. Purita Chan-Noble to get away from the busy city life. The house is made from pebbles and stones from the beaches of Luna, the Pebble Capital of the North. The interior features various colorful pebble artworks and wooden sculptures made by Korean artist, Bong Kim. One thing special about what he does is he trains local artisans in the art of stone-carving. This is why a lot of jobs were generated for the community of Luna.

Street Art Along Urbiztondo Beach

The walls of a number of empty lots and resorts at Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan, are some of the best Instagrammable spots because of the vibrant murals and artworks on them. A lot of these murals were made during the MAKA Fest of 2017. The MAKA Fest celebrates the Sub-Culture and is a gathering of art, music and life enthusiasts who engage the community. Basically, these creatives showcase various talents and skills from the non-commercial community through art installations, concerts, and exhibits. Aside from Urbiztondo Beach, visit Fatwave Surf Resort, too, if you like wall art that much.

Aside from these famed spots, if you feel more crafty, Elyu’s creative side will not disappoint. For handwoven textile known as “inabel” made by Ilocano artisans, visit “Balay ni Atong” at Pindangan, San Fernando, La Union. This is an important place where the Study Center for Traditional Hand Woven Textiles of the Northern Philippines is located. Another place for craft enthusiasts is “Tali Ti Amianan” (Rope of the North)- a social enterprise purely run by surfers. They upcycle pieces from old clothes and trash from the beach. What is even better is that they provide livelihood to the women and older folk of San Juan.