I couldn’t contain a sudden gasp of excitement when I found out we were suring in Pagudpud during Lakbay Norte.

Getting drawn into surfing culture thanks to movies like “Surfer Dude,” “Blue Crush,” and “Into the Blue” convinced me (and I know most people share the same sentiment) that surfing is one of the coolest things to do on this earth.

It was exciting to know that I may be one wipe out closer to actually learn how to surf!

Inching closer to  surfing nirvana

The Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud

“There’s a surf spot in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte?” was first question that popped into my head.

During my first visit to the Blue Lagoon, I did notice and experienced first-hand how powerful the waves were in that area. I didn’t know back then that the place was actually blessed with the perfect mix of ocean geography that made “surfable” waves.

Captivating coast of Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

In the Philippines, there are known surf spots in San Juan (La Union), Bagasbas (Daet, Camarines Sur), Siargao (Surigao del Norte), and Calicoan, Guian (Eastern Samar).

Blue Lagoon is definitely a worthy addition to the list of amazingly beautiful places where I’d love to stay for weeks and have something like a surf camp.

Surfing Lessons

After a fulfilling lunch at Kapuluan Vista Resort and photo-ops of the Blue Lagoon, we assembled at the beach for some Surfing101 action.

Our instructors were Pagudpud locals led by Mike Oida, the owner of Kapuluan Vista Resort.

Mike Oida leading our surf lessons

They taught us the basics of paddling the surfboard, standing on the board correctly, and keeping safe while on the water.

When all of us got the hang of doing “the pop-up,” we packed up our boards and walked to the main surfing area of the Blue Lagoon.

On our way to the surfing location

The setting and weather was perfect! Spending the afternoon at the gorgeous beach was amazing in itself but to surf while enjoying the scenery and great company of friends put the icing on the cake and a cherry to top it all off.

Me and the surfboard

Surfing in Pagudpud

We took turns on the water since we were on a big group. It was fun to see our friends struggling to conquer the waves and cheering them on when they did get to stand on the surfboard without wiping out.

When I got my turn, I got to stand a few times on the board. So cool!

Thanks to Gael for taking my photos while attempting to surf. My uncoordinated body looked awkward trying to balance on the board. So, this is the only photo I’ll post for now :)

After all of us had our fill, our instructors got into the water and showed us how it’s really done.

If those pictures still doesn’t get you packing, here’s a video I found of the excellent surf in Pagudpud:

Of course, we couldn’t leave the Blue Lagoon without the ubiquitous group souvenir photo with the surf boards.

(L-R) Me, Gael of ThePinaySoloBackpacker), Ed of SoloflightEd, Kara of Traveling-up, Angel of Lakwatsero, Christian of LakadPilipinas, and James of JourneyingJames.

Final goodbye at Kapuluan Vista Resort, Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud

We left Pagudpud during sundown and traveled for an hour to Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte, for a night out in the city.