Located in the town of Paoay in Ilocos Norte, Paoay Sand Dunes is actually part of the wide Ilocos Sand Dunes which encompasses several towns of the province.
Paoay Sand Dunes
Paoay Sand Dunes Details
I have once visited La Paz Sand Dunes in Laoag City a few years back with my then girlfriend-now-wife. All we did then was to take photos and pretend to be models just for fun. It was then the most popular part of the Ilocos Sand Dunes. However, just recently, the one located in the town of Paoay started to gain popularity too. This was because of the thrilling Paoay Sand Dunes Adventure.
Paoay Sand Dunes - Paoay, Ilocos Norte
Check out the terrain
Up we go towards that sandhill!
Let's go, guys!
Faster!
You would surely love the landscape of Paoay Sand Dunes
The Paoay Sand Dunes adventure is the generic term used by bloggers and tourists to refer to the exhilarating 4x4 ride and the exciting sandboarding activity. To experience this kind of adventure, visitors may rent a 4x4 jeep in Barangay Masintoc for P2500. Each 4x4 jeep can accommodate 4-5 riders excluding the driver. The adventure may take an hour or more depending on your activities and the number of guests in the area. The P2500 also includes the sandboarding activity for each member of your group.
Paoay Sand Dunes is best explored by 4x4 vehicles
Ready for the sea of sand?
Going back to the 4x4 ride, you may request the driver to do the "extreme ride". Meaning he would drive faster in rough terrain to the point that you'd think the vehicle would overturn. You would surely enjoy going up and down the 20 to 30-foot sand ridges particularly the part they call "roller coaster" in this type of ride. If you have a kid or a senior citizen with you, you may request the driver to do the "mild ride", he will go easy with that accelerator and drive less through the bumpy terrain but that doesn't mean that he will skip the sandhills and the "roller coaster". Don't worry though the drivers are all professionals and have mastered the terrain. Here's a bit of a tip when trying out the 4x4 ride... enjoy and don't forget to let out that scream (it would become a sticky fart if you don't!).
Hi guys! It's a race to the top!
For those who love to document their trips, there are several stops where drivers would allow you to do that much-anticipated photo shoot. You can also take photos during the ride too but since the terrain is rough it is going to be a challenge in composing the perfect shots. I tried it with my DSLR and as expected, half of my shots are blurred or out of focus.
The sandboarding area as seen from one of the sand slopes
Ready to go sandboarding?
Now, regarding the sandboarding activity, you may choose to try it out or skip it but since it is included in the fee, it is a waste to miss out on the opportunity. Sandboarding is pretty basic, you either sit on the sandboard and treat it like a sled or stand on it like a surfer then slide down the 20 to 30-foot sandy slope.
Please check out this short video of our 4x4 Adventure
Don't worry about falling down as there are thousands that did before you and the sand won't break your bones trust me (grin). If you feel that one try is not enough, you can always go for a second one. I successfully slid down the slope sitting down as I had my 4-year old adventurous daughter with me and for me, that was one of the most memorable things I did during this trip.
Team Nicerio and family visits Paoay Sand Dunes
Paoay Sand Dune Admission Fees:
It's FREE to visit Paoay Sand Dunes but it costs 2500 pesos to rent the 4x4 jeepney which includes the sandboarding activity.
Why visit Paoay Sand Dunes?
Overall, Paoay Sand Dunes is a great place to visit with your adventurous barkada (leave the killjoys and primadonnas at home please). Your adventures there will surely be the main topic of your stories until you get back home.
Getting to Paoay Sand Dunes:
From Manila, ride a bus bound to Laoag City. Travel time is usually 11-12 hours. You may choose to ride a plane to Laoag International Airport from NAIA and it will only be an hour's travel time but of course, it will be a bit pricey. Once you reach Laoag City, ride a tricycle and tell the driver to bring you to Barangay Masintoc or just mention Paoay Sand Dunes, they will surely know the way. Ratings:
I've long wanted to try the Paoay Sand Dunes. I was offered to try it around 4 years ago, and yet I haven't gone to doing it. This reminds me of my adventures in Mt. Pinatubo via 4 x 4 across lahar. So maybe if I get the chance to go to Paoay, I'll try sand surfing.
Yes that's true! The 4x4 ride to Mt. Pinatubo is longer compared to this though but both presents a unique picturesque landscape and adventure. You should try this one out. =)
I just came back from a holiday visiting the golden sand dunes of Thar Desert in India. I totally loved the dunes as well as the sunrise and sunset that we watched there. The construct of ilocos norte paoay sand dunes looks very different. The sand is so fine and white. I would love to visit this kind of sand dunes next
Sounds like you had a great time with the 4x4's and sandboarding. I can somewhat relate to this post as I've done both in different countries and there's not much more exhilarating than 4x4's through the dunes haha. I will be keeping this post and your information in mind if I ever go to Paoay sand dunes :D
The idea of sand boarding sounds so much fun.And your pictures have turned out excellent despite the rough terrain I must say.And how is the weather in that area ?
Japan is undeniably a collector's paradise. As a matter of fact, there are a plethora of different things to collect here that are catered to every collector's unique taste and preference. Anime fans have their usual toys, mangas, and memorabilia. Pokemon fans have numerous Pokemon Centers that sell an assortment of Pokemon merchandise. Kitkat collectors have more than 300 flavors of Kitkat to try out. Pilgrims have the temple stamps called goshuin which I wrote about last time. These are but some of the numerous possible things to collect in Japan . A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps However, since I'm promoting budget travel, my article today talks about something that you can collect for FREE . Yup, you read that right. All you need to have is a clean notebook or tickler and an ever-watchful eye. A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps Eki stamps , also called train station stamps, are rubber ink stamps that are typically found in most train stations in Japan. These stamps f
Located at Francisco Mercado Street corner Jose P. Rizal Street, Barangay 5 Poblacion, Calamba City in the province of Laguna, Jose Rizal Shrine is the birthplace of Dr. Jose P. Rizal -the National Hero of the Philippines. Jose Rizal Shrine (Calamba) Jose Rizal Shrine History Jose Rizal Shrine is probably well known as the ancestral house of Rizal's family. The house serves as a museum that contains furniture and items that belong to the Rizal family. Jose Rizal Shrine - Calamba City, Laguna Young Jose Rizal with his dog I wonder what Young Rizal had in mind Rizal Shrine NHI Marker For those who don't know, the house that stood in the lot is actually only a replica of the old ancestral house which was destroyed during the Second World War. The replica was constructed right after the war. The construction was supervised by the late National Artist Juan Nakpil. It was inaugurated in 1950. The entrance to Jose Rizal Shrine . According to lo
Located in Barangay Tinamnan, Lucban in the province of Quezon, Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is a famous religious shrine and grotto of the province. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine Kamay ni Hesus Shrine History Also known as Via Dolorosa Grotto , Kamay ni Hesus Shrine was built under the initiative of Fr. Joseph "Joey" Faller in 2003. He is known as a gifted healing priest. Due to Fr. Faller's healing masses, Kamay ni Hesus Shrine became one of the country's most visited healing centers. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Lucban, Quezon Statues of saints can be seen in different areas of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine A replica of Pieta by Michelangelo Pilgrims look like ants from a distance. Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church Inside the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church One of the highlights of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is the 50-foot statue of Christ with his arm wide open found on the top of a hill. This statue is often referred to as the Risen Christ or Ascending Christ. Pilgrims an
Located at Daraga-Legazpi Diversion Road in Legazpi City, Albay, Albay Park and Wildlife (as its name suggests) is a park and a zoo rolled into one. Albay Park and Wildlife Albay Park and Wildlife Details With an entrance fee that's very affordable, visitors could already enjoy viewing the animals inside Albay Park and Wildlife . Visitors can also enjoy the park's facilities and amenities. Read on to discover more about Albay Park and Wildlife. Albay Park and Wildlife - Legazpi City, Albay The wall engravings near the entrance Albay Park and Wildlife arch Check out the rates Read the rules first before exploring Lagoon and gazebo Picnic grove Lagoon and gazebo Children's playground Celebrity grove Senior Citizen's grove Food court Aside from these, visitors could also rent one of the cottages or groves so that they could have a place to rest after exploring the park. They could also rent a boat and paddle around the la
Located at Barangay Tinago, Camalig in the province of Albay, Quituinan Hills is one of the most beautiful yet least known tourist destinations of the town. Quituinan Hills Quituinan Hills Details For those who have visited Quituinan Hills on a clear day, I bet they'd agree with me when I say that this place is among the top places in the province to view Mayon Volcano. Aside from that, the best way to describe Quituinan Hills is that it has a ranch-like feel. Well, that's probably due to the fact that the developed part of the hill is really a ranch named Quituinan Ranch . Road to Quituinan Hills Welcome to Quituinan Hills This place is a great location for picnics with friends and family. You can either rent a cottage (small P100; big P500) or bring and pitch a tent (P100 space rental) in one of the allowable areas of the hill. Other activities offered here are horseback riding (P60 per 15 minutes) and ATV rental (P200 per 15 minutes). You can also explore
Located in 008 Katipunan Street, Vigan City in the province of Ilocos Sur, the Hidden Garden of Vigan is a place where nature, history, and food meet. It is also a place of love. You'd find out why as you continue reading. Hidden Garden of Vigan Hidden Garden of Vigan Details The Hidden Garden of Vigan , despite the name, is not really hidden. It is found in the heart of Vigan City and is frequented by locals and tourists alike. It probably got its name from the large backyard garden that is hidden from those who are walking in Katipunan Street in front of it. Hidden Garden of Vigan - Vigan City, Ilocos Sur The renovated entrance as of 2017 Some souvenirs sold near the entrance Check out if your photo is included here I do hope I won't dig any holes here The plant collection of Hidden Garden of Vigan Different kinds of herbs (The colonel would surely be jealous) Bonsai Collection Hidden Garden of Vigan or simply Hidden Garden started
Plaza Quince Maritres is a significant landmark in Naga City, Camarines Sur, and is located on Penafrancia Street in the city's sentro. The plaza is named after the 15 Bicol Martyrs. Plaza Quince Martires Plaza Quince Martires details Plaza Quince Martires is considered one of the most popular landmarks in Naga City. It can be found in front of San Francisco Church (another popular landmark of the city.) Plaza Quince Martires is highly regarded by the people of Naga or the Naguenos. Plaza Quince Martires - Naga City, Camarines Sur It is usually the site used for special government functions or meetings. As a matter of fact, the 2014 Independence Day Ceremony was held in the plaza and it was graced by none other than the President of the Philippines, Benigno Aquino III. Plaza Quince Martires NHI Marker Plaza Quince Martires is known for the monument that was erected on November 29, 1926. It shows the faces and names of the 15 Martyrs of Bicol. A marker, also placed in
Located in Tagaytay City in the province of Cavite, Tagaytay Picnic Grove is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Tagaytay Picnic Grove Tagaytay Picnic Grove Details Tagaytay Picnic Grove is known for its numerous picnic huts and tables. It is also one of the places in Tagaytay City where you could try horseback riding, zipline, and cable car rides. An eco-trail is also located in Tagaytay Picnic Grove . What makes this place a favorite destination for many is its prime location. It is one of the best places in the city to view Taal Lake and Taal Volcano . Aside from that, the cold weather also draws tourists who want to escape the heat and pollution of Manila. Tagaytay Picnic Grove - Tagaytay City , Cavite Taal Volcano as seen from the Picnic Grove Great place to go on a picnic If you're looking for souvenirs, there are plenty of stores in Tagaytay Picnic Grove that sells Tagaytay City merchandise like shirts, keychains, ref magnets, and many m
Maragondon is one of the southernmost towns of the province of Cavite. It is also one of those places in Cavite where one can still feel the "provincial vibes" compared to many of the other towns and cities of the province which already embraced urbanization. Top 10 Things To Do in Maragondon, Cavite For those planning to visit the town to check out what it has to offer, here are the Top 10 Things To Do in Maragondon, Cavite. 1. Admire the sculpted images at Inukit Site 2. Cross the Caingin Hanging Bridge 3. Take a photo of the ancestral houses 4. Visit the Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-Tourism Park 5. Go boating or swimming at Maragondon River 6. Go to mass at the historic Maragondon Church 7. Swim or sunbathe at Patungan Beach 8. Visit and learn about Andres Bonifacio's trial at the Bonifacio Trial House 9. Hike Mt. Buntis 10. Hike Mt. Pico de Loro AKA Mt. Palay-Palay I hope my list of Top 10 Things To Do in Marag
Here we are once again, it's another food trip adventure. This time we visit Teppanya in Evia Lifestyle Center in Daanghari, Las Pinas City. Teppanya (Evia) Teppanya Details Teppanya brands itself as the "House of Teppanyaki". This restaurant prides itself on its wide variety of authentic modern Japanese cuisine. Teppanya (Evia) - Las Pinas City Having visited Japan numerous times and falling in love with its culture, particularly its food, made me once in a while crave whenever I see posts about Japanese food in my social media apps. Hence, while waiting for my next trip to Japan, I'm always in constant search for restaurants that serve authentic Japanese cuisines here in the Philippines . Teppanya : The House of Teppanyaki Welcome to Teppanya (Evia) Team Nicerio tries out Teppanya Inside Teppanya Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants like that in my area. For today, the highlight of my food trip is Teppanya in Evia Lifestyle Center. I got to eat in Teppa
I've long wanted to try the Paoay Sand Dunes. I was offered to try it around 4 years ago, and yet I haven't gone to doing it. This reminds me of my adventures in Mt. Pinatubo via 4 x 4 across lahar. So maybe if I get the chance to go to Paoay, I'll try sand surfing.
ReplyDeleteYes that's true! The 4x4 ride to Mt. Pinatubo is longer compared to this though but both presents a unique picturesque landscape and adventure. You should try this one out. =)
DeleteI just came back from a holiday visiting the golden sand dunes of Thar Desert in India. I totally loved the dunes as well as the sunrise and sunset that we watched there. The construct of ilocos norte paoay sand dunes looks very different. The sand is so fine and white. I would love to visit this kind of sand dunes next
ReplyDeleteWow! I Googled Thar Desert in India and the photos that I saw were all astonishing. Thanks for that, I would surely add that to my bucketlist.
DeleteWow what a fantastic place it is. Nice post and photos.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much.
DeleteSounds like you had a great time with the 4x4's and sandboarding. I can somewhat relate to this post as I've done both in different countries and there's not much more exhilarating than 4x4's through the dunes haha. I will be keeping this post and your information in mind if I ever go to Paoay sand dunes :D
ReplyDeleteThank you so much. =)
DeleteThis is one of the few places I wanted to see before I left Philippines. I hope that I can get to see them when I come back :) Hopefully soon!
ReplyDeleteYou should go see this place Jane. =)
DeleteThe idea of sand boarding sounds so much fun.And your pictures have turned out excellent despite the rough terrain I must say.And how is the weather in that area ?
ReplyDeleteThanks Harini. It was very windy during our visit thank goodness we got to visit in the afternoon as it was not that hot anymore.
DeleteHi! How many minutes or hours is the 2,500 good for? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteIt's actually an hour pero kung gusto mo magtagal sa sand boarding pwede. =) Kami ata mga 2 hours kami.
DeleteHi! Did you schedule this beforehand? Can you give me the name and contact for the sand dunes adventure? Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHi Paula.
DeleteNope we did not. We just booked upon arrival.
You can try contacting these numbers:
+63 920 611 3611
+63 929 771 9036
Thank you so much! 😊
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome.
DeleteHi po! Just asking if we are six can we have the ride for the 4 to 5 persons? Or hindi po pwede? Thankyou!
ReplyDeleteHi there were 6 of us in the 4x4 pero isa or dalawa dun bata. =)
DeleteProud Ilocano here. Malapit lang sa amin yang lugar na yan. Diyan kami naglalaro dati ng mga kaklase ko.
ReplyDeleteSalamat po sa pagiwan ng comment. =)
DeleteParang sa middle east lang. Ganda!
ReplyDeleteMaganda po talaga. Bisita po kayo pag may chance.
Delete