The Circle Hostel La Union is one of the original backpacker accommodations in San Juan, La Union.
It started welcoming guests in 2013 with simple fan rooms and cozy hammocks. Back then, it was a humble spot for travelers seeking a laid-back, no-frills stay. It already had a welcoming, communal vibe. Today, it’s fully renovated, colorful, and thoughtfully designed, a clear step up from its early days. It still retains the easygoing, backpacker-friendly atmosphere. Visiting now, it’s clear the hostel has grown into one of San Juan’s best places to stay. It offers comfort and creativity in equal measure.
ARRIVAL
Check-in at The Circle Hostel La Union is smooth and very welcoming. Upon arrival, the front desk staff take the time to explain everything about the property; house rules, facilities, and amenities. Guests sign the terms and conditions, pay a 1,000 PHP deposit, and staff then guide them to their rooms. I had a minor hiccup with my assigned locker, as the lock was loose and couldn’t close properly. The staff immediately offered me an alternative locker while letting me keep my lower bunk. Their solution felt thoughtful and hassle-free.
Even from the entrance, the hostel makes a strong impression. Bright colors, art on the walls, and an open, airy design create a vibe that’s both lively and relaxed. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly part of the community, whether you’re solo or traveling with friends.
ROOMS
I stayed in a fan room shared with seven other travelers on the second floor, just above the souvenir shop. Nipa hut materials make up the walls, giving the room a beachy, tropical feel. Even though it’s a fan room, the evenings in November were surprisingly cold, so a light sweater or hoodie is recommended.
The beds themselves are basic but functional, each equipped with a personal reading light. The blankets keep you warm on chillier nights. The soft pillows made me wish for something firmer to match my usual preference. Two ceiling fans and additional stand fans keep the room ventilated, making it comfortable even in warmer weather, though I can imagine summer months might be hotter.
The shared bathrooms and showers still give you full privacy because each one comes with its own lockable door. There were three bathrooms available on my floor, all clean and well-maintained. They provide shower gel and shampoo, and they hand out towels at check-in. For guests staying multiple nights, replacements are available on request, which is convenient.
COMMON SPACES & FACILITIES
What really sets The Circle Hostel La Union apart is its communal spaces. From the colorful walls to the art pieces created by local artists, there’s a strong sense of creativity throughout the property. The hostel even encourages guests to add their own art to the walls, turning the space into a collaborative canvas. It doesn’t just offer a place to sleep, it invites you to experience, interact, and get inspired.
For those working remotely, the hostel is well-equipped. A free coworking space for checked-in guests, a meeting room, and plenty of tables and chairs create an easy, spacious environment for getting work done. Wi-Fi is reliable, and the environment is quiet enough to focus, yet still vibrant enough to feel connected to other travelers.
The hostel also offers a sundeck on the upper floor of another building, perfect for catching the sunset over San Juan. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a small exercise corner with weights, a balance rope, and a balance board, great for stretching or light workouts after a day at the beach.
You can grab a bite, sip a drink, or pick up a memento without leaving the property. I even suggested to the staff that they consider organizing local tours during peak season, so guests can explore more of San Juan while connecting with fellow travelers, a great way to enhance the social vibe of the hostel.
EXPERIENCE
Overall, my stay at The Circle Hostel La Union was colorful, relaxing, and full of small, thoughtful touches that make it stand out. From its early days with hammocks and basic fan rooms to its current renovated setup, the hostel has clearly evolved while keeping its original backpacker spirit intact.
The combination of creative décor, functional facilities, and inviting common spaces makes The Circle more than just a place to sleep; it’s a hub for travelers to meet, connect, and create memories. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even working remotely, the hostel provides everything you need: comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, social spaces, work-friendly areas, and even a sundeck for sunsets.
It’s this mix of practicality and personality that makes The Circle Hostel La Union one of the best places to stay in San Juan. For anyone looking for a relaxed, colorful, and community-oriented stay in town, this hostel comes highly recommended.
