We had the chance to tick off something fun and adventurous from our bucket list—an adrenaline-filled day at the Paoay Sand Dunes in Ilocos Norte! We were traveling with my in-laws, and they were surprisingly excited to try the famous 4×4 ride and sand sliding experience. I wasn’t sure how it would go, especially since we had kids with us—but spoiler alert: we all had an amazing time!
We rode a bright orange 4×4 jeep, just the right size for our group of 5 adults and 2 kids. From the moment we got on, the excitement started building. The ride took us across the golden dunes with thrilling drops, sharp turns, and lots of laughter. I honestly thought my 6-year-old daughter would get scared, especially with the bumps and sudden slopes—but she surprised me.
Not only did she enjoy the ride, she kept cheering the whole time!
And the highlight? The sand slide! Imagine sliding down a tall, soft sand dune while surrounded by scenic views—it’s like a desert playground. My daughter couldn’t get enough of it. She slid down not once, not twice—but six times! I kept thinking she’d be scared or tired, but nope—she kept running back up for more.
It was one of those days where you see everyone genuinely happy—kids giggling, adults screaming (the fun kind), and moments you’ll remember for a long time.
If you’re headed to Ilocos Norte soon, this is definitely a must-try activity. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or just looking to bond as a family, Paoay Sand Dunes offers the perfect blend of thrill and beauty.
Pro tip: You can book your Paoay Sand Dunes adventure via the Klook app for convenience. And here’s a little something to save you a bit more—use my code HENESSYKLOOK at checkout to get up to 5% off your booking!
