Sand Boarding and Top Activities in Ilocos Norte

Sand Boarding and Top Activities in Ilocos Norte
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

Going back to our Ilocos experience, we chose going to the sand dunes as our first activity. We all agreed to do this because we wanted to start our vacation with a bang.

Related Post: Balay da Blas - Top Recommended Place to Stay in Laoag - this amazing home-like inn is only 15-20 minutes away from this place. I don't know if this is the same case as other hotels/inns, but the accommodating staff of Balay da Blas coordinated with the personnel of the 4x4 ride and ATV rental providers to pick us up in this inn for no additional fee.

Ilocos Norte - Home of the Spectacular Sand Dunes

Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte, particularly Paoay, is frequently known for the sand dunes. It's the place where you can basically do three thrilling activities. The first one is sand boarding. The next is taking the 4x4 ride, and lastly riding an ATV.

The fine soft sands in the Sand Dunes of Ilocos Norte

We did two of these three during our first day, and the third activity during our last. All of these activities were done in a single place.

Sand Boarding
There are four ways in which you may want to go sand boarding. I'll arrange them in terms of difficulty.

1. Sled Style

"Wooohooo!" - Sand boarding in Ilocos Norte! 

This is the most basic way you can enjoy sand boarding. Of course, there is thrill in doing this; however, the other styles are more so.

2. Superman Style

Sand boarding ala Superman - take more risks!
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

Go face first by riding ala superman. It's definitely an awesome way to enjoy the sand, you'll even have a taste of it when you do it this way.

3. Surfing Style

Sand Surfing in the amazing sand dunes of Ilocos Norte
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

Ride the waves of the sand as you go sand surfing! Test your balancing and maneuvering skill by surfing through the sand.

4. Board-free Style

Sand boarding without the "board" 

If you are imaginative and creative, you may go board free and just slide along the sands. Kidding! But really, I imagined myself rolling on the sand!

4x4 Ride || P2,500 w/ unlimited sandboarding
Now, if you think the sand boardibg activity is fun, wait 'til you ride the 4x4 ATV.

4x4 Ride - a rollercoaster-kind-of adventure in Sand Dunes

With my awesome girl berks in Ilocos Norte
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

As it involved relatively higher risk (i.e. although the ride is considerably safe), the ATV ride becomes a more thrilling experience than the first mentioned activity. In fact, you'll almost have the same feeling riding a roller coaster but this time wilder and dirtier (literally with all the sand dangling in the air).

Note: Allowed passengers per vehicle - 4 to 5 persons only

Barkada Photo - one of our unforgettable out-of-town adventure!
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

Riding the ATV in the sand dunes of Ilocos Norte
Photo source: Alberto Del Rosario

ATV Ride || P2,000 per hour
Now, you may ride your own little version of the 4x4 and explore the sand dunes all by yourself or with a buddy.

With my awesome photographer friend, Alberto aka Luis
Photo Source: Nathaniel Chan

Now, in case you are not into strenuous activities, you may still go to the sand dunes for a stroll, to take photos or to just enjoy the scenery. Below are some of the photos magically taken by my good friend Alberto del Rosario.

Ride the ATV and explore the beach area
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

Frolic on the shores for a while as your ride your way towards the sea. You'll get a dose of energizing fresh air as you commune with nature.

Nature's view from the sand dunes of Ilocos Norte

If you are into nature photography, you'll definitely love it there in the sand dunes.

The foodie became a travel junkie - A Not-So-Popular Kid Travel Edition!
Photo Source: Nathaniel Chan

Also, we took the wonderful opportunity of storing our memories into photos under the glorious sunset scenery. A bit of our vanity struck as well.

Pose how you want here in the sand dunes of Ilocos Norte!
Photo Source: Alberto Del Rosario

And of course, you never miss taking the grandeur of the sinking sun.

The magnificent pre-sunset in Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte

Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte in a Nutshell
In a nutshell, visiting the sand dunes of Ilocos Norte is truly a must for those taking a vacation in the said province. With a bunch of activities you can do, you'll definitely experience more thrill to your life, while enjoying nature as well.

How about you - do you recommend this place?

Sand Dunes
Location: Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte (the alternative to Paoay's Sand Dunes)