Santo Tomas

Say hello to Santo Tomas, La Union, the charming coastal town where golden sands, ocean breezes, and warm Ilocano hospitality collide in perfect harmony. Just a short drive from San Fernando, this underrated gem is the first municipality in La Union from the south, the gateway to the surfing capital of the North! But don’t rush through, Santo Tomas has its own unique blend of nature, heritage, and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

• Agoo-Damortis Protected Landscape and Seascape – A paradise for birdwatchers, beachcombers, and marine life enthusiasts
• Damortis Fish Port – Bustling with life and the freshest seafood catches, perfect for early morning market strolls
• Santo Tomas Parish Church (St. Thomas Aquinas Parish) – A peaceful sanctuary built during the Spanish era, reflecting old Ilocano faith and architecture
• Pebble Beach in Damortis – Unique coastal beauty with natural rock formations and pebbled shores
• Sunset Bay – End your day with the most magical golden-hour views

Santo Tomas is a proud fishing town, where the sea is both a livelihood and a lifestyle. Locals take pride in traditional methods of fishing, salt-making, and coastal farming. The vibe is relaxed but full of heart, a place where fishermen still sing as they haul in their catch and where families gather by the beach for simple joys.

Ilocano is the main language, often spoken with a salty breeze of friendliness. English and Filipino are also used in schools and businesses. A smile and a cheerful “Naimbag nga aldaw!” (Good day!) will earn you instant warmth from the locals.

If you’re a seafood lover, Santo Tomas is a culinary haven.

• Bangus (Milkfish) – The pride of Damortis, fresh and perfectly grilled
• Sea Urchin (Uni) – Served raw with calamansi, a rare salty-sour delicacy
• Sinanglao – A savory soup made with beef innards, packed with bold Ilocano flavor
• Paksiw na Isda – A vinegar-based fish stew that tastes like the ocean with a zing
• Local Vinegar and Salt – Crafted the old-fashioned way, essential in every Ilocano kitchen

• La Union Day & Foundation Celebrations (March) – With parades, boat races, and beach parties
• Araw ng Santo Tomas (April 25) – The town’s big day with street dancing, sports tournaments, and cultural showcases
• Holy Week Processions – A deep, moving display of faith with candle-lit vigils and reenactments

From Ilocano folk songs like Pamulinawen to acoustic beachfront serenades, the soundscape of Santo Tomas is peaceful and pure. On fiestas, expect brass bands, drums, and spontaneous karaoke battles, because no celebration here is ever quiet!

• The gateway town to La Union
• Coastal and marine biodiversity
• Damortis fish port and seafood markets
• Peaceful pebble beaches and sunset views
• Authentic Ilocano fishing culture