Every time someone mentions La Union all I could think of is that almost everybody goes there to surf. The buff guy at the gym, the barkada of girls who wants to do it for fun, even our long-haired tito who you’d think is too old for the sport is up for it! I’m quite the opposite. I’m more of a lay by the beach, watch the sunset (while eating Bagnet), and then take selfies after kind of girl. And if you’re anything like me I found the perfect spot for us in San Fernando where we can do just that, and other relaxing things people love to do to unwind on a vacation / staycation.

Aureo is around a four-hour drive from Manila (five if you’re coming from the South). Just look for the super long resort that welcomes each guest with a drink and a lei. They have three main areas at the moment (they’re currently extending the resort). Phase 1 is the closest to the lobby, with rooms overlooking an ala-The-OC pool with cute umbrellas (seen in my intro photo). Phase 2, has its serene garden view and comfy “tambayans” with round beds (second photo above). And lastly, Phase 3 with the bigger pool overlooking the beach, with swan and unicorn floaties (photo below).

There are tons of things you can do in Aureo. Foodies will love their Coast Restaurant that serves the best bagnet, Vigan longganisa, and coconut cake (immediately forgot I was on a strict diet after I tasted these, gained a few pounds but totally worth it!). They can also deliver your food to your room where you can have them on your private veranda. Enjoy cocktails from their beach-front-bar with your friends and lay by their poolside lounge beds. And of course take Instagram-worthy photos to keep.

You can swim, ride a jet ski, go kayaking, play volleyball (they have the net!) — and my favorite, watch the breathtaking view of the sun as it sets by the Philippine Sea. I watched the sunset at the beach with friends on my first night there, then watched it from my bedroom’s veranda on the second night before heading to Aureo’s bonfire dinner event. It was such an unforgettable experience.

Welcome gifts from Aureo, Chihuahua Cosmetics, Beach Hut Sun Block, Bite Block, and Holy Seat.

I stayed at the their Deluxe Bedroom with an enormous king size bed, spacious luxurious bathroom, and a romantic panoramic view of the sea. I love how you can listen to the waves of the sea all day long. Super relaxing! I’m so happy I got to bring my yoga mat which I gladly did my morning stretching routine with (feeling like I’m in a scenic fitness youtube video haha!) I also want to point out how comfortable their beds are for people who have a sensitive back like me. This is one of the things I always look out for when I check in hotels and resorts. Other rooms have two queen size beds and superior bedrooms have a scenic view of their pools.

With all of that said, is this the most relaxing resort in La Union? I’ve only seen a few in the area, but I had such a lovely stay there. The people were nice, their service was excellent, the view was absolutely stunning, and I’d definitely love to visit it again to unwind and relax, hopefully very soon.

Round rattan bag from: Babe About Town | One Piece Swimsuit from Glitter Box PH 

Coast Restaurant and the friendly crew of Aureo. They serve the best Bagnet and coconut cake!