Paoay

Paoay is a fourth-class municipality in Ilocos Norte, famous for two things: the Paoay Church (San Agustín Church), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most recognizable example of "Earthquake Baroque" architecture in the Philippines; and the Paoay Sand Dunes, a 85-hectare coastal sand dune field used as a filming location for movies (including "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Born on the Fourth of July").

Paoay is 20 minutes south of Laoag by jeepney or tricycle. Buses from Manila to Laoag pass through Paoay.

Tricycles from Paoay town centre to the church and sand dunes (₱30–50 per trip).

• Paoay Church (San Agustín Church) — A UNESCO World Heritage Site built 1694–1710 by Augustinian friars. Its massive buttresses (24 in total) are its most distinctive feature, built to withstand earthquakes. The bell tower stands apart, as was typical of Earthquake Baroque. Entry free; donations welcome.

• Paoay Sand Dunes — Rolling sand dunes stretching to the coast. 4×4 rides are the main attraction. Tours ₱1,000–2,000 per vehicle for 30–60 minutes.

• Malacañang of the North — The Marcos presidential residence overlooking Paoay Lake. Now a museum. Entry ₱50.

• Paoay Lake — A 386-hectare lake, the largest natural lake in Ilocos Norte. Boat rides available (₱500–1,000).

• 4×4 sand dune adventure — A thrilling ride over the dunes. Sandboarding is also available. The best time is late afternoon (avoiding the midday heat).

• Sunset at Paoay Lake — Bring a picnic and watch the sun set over the lake with the Malacañang in the background.

• Visit the Paoay Church at golden hour — The late afternoon light on the coral-stone church is magnificent.

• Jasmine Restaurant (Paoay town) — Ilocano and Filipino dishes. Try the pinakbet and bagnet. Meals ₱200–400.
• Sand Dunes eateries — Small karenderias serving grilled food and Ilocano specialties near the sand dune area.

• Basi from local stores.

• Budget: Paoay Pilgrim's Inn (Paoay, near the church, rooms from ₱800).
• Mid-range: Fort Ilocandia Resort & Casino (Paoay, 15 min by tricycle, rooms from ₱3,500) — a beach resort with golf course and pool.

• Paoay Public Market — Local garlic, longganisa, and bagnet.
• Souvenir stalls near the church — Miniature Paoay Church replicas, windmill-shaped souvenirs, and local snacks.

• Laoag (20 min north) — The Ilocos Norte capital with the Sinking Bell Tower.
• Batac (20 min south) — The Marcos Museum and Mausoleum.
• Pagudpud (1.5 hours north) — White-sand beaches and Bangui Windmills.
• Vigan (1.5 hours south) — UNESCO World Heritage City.