Best Cafes for Breakfast & Brunch in Moalboal

Planning a trip to Moalboal?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 7 must-visit Moalboal cafes and breakfast spots in Moalboal that cater to all kinds of travelers, from plant-based lovers to digital nomads.

As one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Philippines, Moalboal is a must-visit destination for many travelers.

Famous for its legendary sardine run and adrenaline-fueled canyoneering, this coastal town has long been a magnet for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Whether you’re fueling up before a busy day exploring or seeking a laid-back spot to sip coffee by the ocean, Moalboal has a café for every craving.

From energizing breakfasts to hangover-curing coffee and scenic brunch spots with breathtaking views, this guide reveals the best Moalboal cafes you won’t want to miss.

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Best Moalboal Cafes: Overview

If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, below is a quick summary.

Top 5 Moalboal Breakfast & Brunch Spots

If you’re a fan of breakfast and brunch, you’ll be in your element in Moalboal.

From ocean-view cafes and Filipino favorites to digital nomad hotspots and avo’ on toast, there is something for every type of traveler (with plenty of plant-based options too).

Each of the cafes featured on this list is conveniently located around the lively Panagsama Beach area, making them easy to visit between your Moalboal adventures.

➡️ If you’re looking for lunch or dinner instead, check out my Moalboal Restaurant Guide

Smooth Cafe – Best Moalboal Cafe

One of the best cafes in Moalboal, Smooth Cafe is a must-visit for coffee lovers, foodies, and digital nomads alike.

Located in the heart of Panagsama Beach minutes from the shoreline, Smooth Cafe is your go-to spot for high-quality coffee, fresh flavorsome food, and a relaxed vibe.

With its rustic-industrial design, vibrant murals, and lush indoor garden, Smooth Café seamlessly blends urban aesthetics with tropical charm.

Smooth Cafe’s small but mighty menu is diverse and creative. They cater to every type of traveler, with a wide range of tasty drinks and food to satisfy any type of craving.

And the best part? The prices are super reasonable.

Drinks & Coffee

Good quality coffee can be hard to come by in the Philippines, which makes Smooth Cafe like a breath of fresh air.

Sourcing its beans locally from the Cordillera Mountains, Smooth Café ensures every cup is freshly ground and expertly roasted, delivering a rich and aromatic coffee to kick-start your morning.

There is a wide range of hot and iced coffees to choose from, as well as delicious frappes.

If you’ve been searching for the elusive Flat White or Spanish Latte whilst traveling, then Smooth Cafe is a must-visit.

Not a coffee drinker? No problem! Smooth Café also serves a variety of teas, fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and milkshakes—perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up at any time of day.

✅ Short on time? Check out this combined Island Hopping & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour for the main Moalboal highlights

Breakfast or Brunch

Smooth Cafe is one of the best spots for Moalboal breakfast or brunch, with a wide range of fresh and high-quality bites to eat.

The diverse menu includes heaps of delicious plant-based options too.

From sweet and savory waffles and crepes to delicious sandwiches and full hearty breakfasts, Smooth Cafe has something for any kind of craving.

Dinner & Cocktails

However, the fun doesn’t end at lunchtime.

Smooth Cafe is open until late into the evening, with a live band and delicious cocktails bringing a touch of sophistication.

In the evening, you will find a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine. There is a great variety of tasty appetizers, perfect for socializing and sharing with friends.

Happy Hour is every day from 3 – 6 PM, so be sure to swing by for a cocktail or two and enjoy some acoustic music.

Whether you decide to stay at Smooth Cafe for a bite to eat or check out another one of the amazing restaurants in Moalboal, this is a great way to start your night.

👉 Credit to Yancy Gabriel @ Smooth Cafe for the photos

Shaka Cafe – Best Breakfast Moalboal

If you’re looking for a healthy and refreshing breakfast in Moalboal, Shaka Cafe is the place to be.

Informally known as the birthplace of the smoothie bowl in the Philippines, Shaka has made a name for itself in other popular destinations like Siargao, Siquijor, and Bohol.

Its focus on wholesome, plant-based meals makes it a must-visit for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone craving a nourishing start to the day.

Located just minutes from the shoreline, Shaka’s vibrant aesthetic is as colorful and captivating as its food.

With bright, colorful designs and an Instagram-worthy swinging chair, this spot is a feast for both the stomach and the eyes.

The rustic, native-style shack and outdoor bench seating add to its laidback beach vibe, while the lively murals make it one of the most photogenic spots for a Moalboal breakfast.

👉 you can borrow a snorkel and mask for free with any combo purchase. I’d hit Shaka Cafe for breakfast, borrow their snorkel, then go explore nearby Pescador Island

The Smoothie Bowl

The true star of the show at Shaka Cafe is the smoothie bowl.

With a wide range of fresh flavors and textures, these are the most photogenic smoothie bowls I have ever seen.

Think vibrant tropical fruits, crunchy homemade granola, and stunningly arranged toppings – Shaka Cafe is as delicious as it is nutritious.

Shaka Cafe prides itself on using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, including organic produce and superfoods.

Sustainability is also at the heart of their mission, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices.

As well as their iconic smoothie bowl, there is a wide range of energy-boosting drinks on offer too. Including freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, homemade soda, tea, and coffee.

Speaking of coffee, it’s absolutely top-notch—with oat milk as the default base and other plant-based alternatives available.

While Shaka Cafe isn’t the cheapest spot in town, the exceptional quality and health-conscious ingredients make it well worth the price.

Chief Mau Hostel – Best Value Moalboal Breakfast

Another one of the best spots for Moalboal breakfast is Chief Mau – a lively social backpacker hostel just minutes from the shoreline.

While not a cafe like the other places on this list, Chief Mau’s breakfast is both delicious and budget-friendly, making it a must-visit spot.

Breakfast is served daily until noon, with a variety of combo meals that include fresh fruit and coffee.

As well as Western-style fry-ups and Filipino breakfasts, there is a choice of pancakes, french toast, or waffles for those with a sweeter tooth.

🏡 Need somewhere to stay? Do not miss Chief Mau – Moalboal’s most lively hostel minutes from the shoreline

One of the best things about Chief Mau is the possibility of building your own breakfast.

Each item—from avocado and fresh fruit to bacon and toast—is individually priced, so you can customize your meal exactly how you like it.

I can be a little fussy at times so I really appreciated the accommodating staff allowing me to make any changes to my breakfast.

My toast, eggs, avocado, fruit, and coffee were only 250 PHP ($4)!

For a perfect start to your day, head up to the second-floor terrace balcony, where you can enjoy your meal with an open-air view of the street below.

The laid-back vibe, hammocks, board games, darts, and a pool table make it the perfect place to unwind after a night out or ease into a day of adventure.

➡️ You might also like: Moalboal Nightlife Guide: Top 5 BEST Bars

Ram Coffee House – Best Coffee in Moalboal

Next on this list of the best Moalboal cafes is Ram Coffee House – a must for coffee lovers.

Ram Coffee House has two amazing locations.

Their main cafe, located along the main road, offers a full menu of delicious food and drinks, making it the perfect spot to relax and refuel.

Alternatively, there is a new pop-up stall in El Mercado in the heart of Panagasama Beach serving only drinks.

This is perfect for those on the go looking to get their morning coffee fix before a busy day of adventure.

➡️ Must Read: How To Spend 1-3 Days in Moalboal: Ultimate Itinerary

The Coffee

Ram Coffee House has some of the best coffee in Moalboal, with a wide range of flavors and styles.

Committed to quality, they source premium Filipino coffee beans directly from local farmers, ensuring each cup is fresh, rich, and full of flavor.

With a state-of-the-art coffee machine, Ram Coffee House is well-equipped to satisfy all your coffee cravings – whether you’re after hot or iced.

Beyond the classics, Ram Coffee House takes your coffee experience to the next level with its international selection.

Choose from Irish, Vietnamese, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, or Austrian-style coffee—each expertly prepared to match its traditional roots.

The Food

Despite being a little out of the way, it is well worth visiting the Ram Coffee House Cafe on the main road.

Its strategic location on the main road makes it a convenient stop when arriving in Moalboal or before catching a bus to Cebu or Dumaguete.

The ambiance of this Moalboal cafe strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and modern sophistication.

Wooden furniture and cozy outdoor seating create a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for people-watching. Plus, its quieter location means you can enjoy your coffee without the crowds of tourists.

Ram Coffee House serves all-day breakfast and brunch, offering both Filipino and Western-style options.

Whether you go for fluffy pancakes, crispy waffles, or a hearty local breakfast, the generous portions and thoughtfully plated dishes make every bite feel like it was made with love.

If you’re visiting later in the day, they also offer some delicious pizzas and pasta, as well as a range of tasty cocktails to see you into the night.

✅ Short on time? Check out this combined Island Hopping & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour for the main Moalboal highlights

Andi’s Talisay – Best Moalboal Cafe With A View

Located on the beachfront of Panagsama, Andi’s Talisay is one of the best Moalboal cafes with a view.

Tucked away from the main strip, this hidden gem requires a short walk to reach—but the reward is an unobstructed ocean view, a laidback atmosphere, and far fewer tourists.

The vibe here is cozy and welcoming, with a mix of regular seating, beanbags, and benches—all perfectly positioned to overlook the sea and the sardine-run snorkeling area.

Andi’s Talisay offers one of the most affordable breakfasts in Moalboal and a wide range of coffees to kick-start your day exploring.

Andi’s Talisay serves up simple yet delicious Filipino and Western-style breakfasts at unbeatable prices, with most dishes costing under 180 PHP ($3).

👉 the owners are super friendly and are happy for you to leave your things here whilst snorkeling

Upgrade your meal, and you’ll even get freshly squeezed juice included. Plus, if you’re not an early riser, no worries—breakfast is served all day.

Beyond breakfast, Andi’s Talisay is also a fantastic spot for a relaxed evening. With cheap drinks, live music, and mesmerizing sunset views over the water, it’s the perfect place to unwind before enjoying Moalboal’s nightlife.

Where to stay in Moalboal

I would recommend staying in the area around Panagsama Beach when visiting Moalboal.

This is where you will find the best restaurants, buzzing nightlife, and of course, the spectacular sardine run just meters from the shoreline.

Chief Mau Hostel (recommended)

The best Moalboal accommodation for budget backpackers and solo travelers.

Chief Mau is the ultimate social hostel, with amazing communal areas for socialising and meeting other travelers.

They also have many board games, darts, a pool table, and beer pong nights. As well as hosting movie nights and parties, you can also book your tours directly through the hostel.

Choose between shared dorms or a private room with a balcony. The dorms are spacious with plenty of storage and concrete beds that do not make any noise.

Located in the heart of Panagsama minutes from the beach, you cannot beat it for location.

Prices start from $17.00 for dorms per night.

Marz Inn Moalboal

The best budget-friendly Moalboal accommodation for couples or families – this is where I stayed.

Reasonably priced and clean rooms available, with aircon, a private bathroom, and a hot shower.

Excellent location just 5 minutes from Panagsama Beach but in a quiet area. Welcoming hosts can help with booking tours. Free drinking water provided.

Prices for a private room start from $25.00 per night.

Secret Paradise

The best luxury accommodation in Moalboal.

Deluxe private rooms with air conditioning, kettle, minibar, safety deposit box, and flat-screen TV. Perfect location just 2 minutes from Panagsama Beach.

This hotel features a stunning outdoor swimming pool and garden oasis, a delicious Asian-inspired restaurant, and a bar.

Prices start from $88.00 per night.

How to get to Moalboal

Located on the island of Cebu, most travelers will typically have to reach Cebu City before heading to Moalboal.

Once you have reached Cebu City, you have a couple of options based on your preference –

• Bus from Cebu City to Moalboal – 4 hours
• Private transfer – 2 hours (book here)

➡️ For full details, including the bus schedule and fare, check out my How To Get From Cebu to Moalboal guide

FAQs

How long should I spend in Moalboal?

How many days should I spend in Moalboal?

I would recommend spending at least two nights in Moalboal.

Spend day one exploring Panagsama Beach and nearby Pescador Island by snorkeling or diving – witness the iconic sardine run, turtles, and other marine creatures.

✅ Book your Sardine Run & Pescador Island tour in advance here

On day two, you cannot miss canyoneering at Kawasan Falls. This is one of the best day trips in the Philippines for thrill-seekers and waterfall lovers.

✅ Book your Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls in advance here

➡️ Full Post: 10 Essential Things To Know Before Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Moalboal also has some pretty amazing restaurants and cafes. As well as the main tourist spots, it is well worth taking some time to explore Moalboal’s culinary scene.

If you benefit from time on your Moalboal itinerary, as well as exploring the Panagsama Beach area, leave some time to relax at White Beach too.

➡️ Must Read: How To Spend 1-3 Days in Moalboal: The Ultimate Itinerary

What makes Moalboal famous?

Moalboal has gained fame as having one of the richest marine habitats and some of the most abundant marine life in the whole of the Philippines.

This has transformed Moalboal into the snorkeling and diving capital of Cebu.

➡️ Must Read: Pescador Island Moalboal: Ultimate Snorkeling & Diving Guide

Recreational divers and adventure-seeking backpackers flock to Moalboal

When should I go to Moalboal?

The best time to visit Moalboal coincides with the best time to visit the Philippines in general.

This is during the dry season from December – May.

However, visiting during the rainy season does mean fewer crowds and cheaper prices – just come prepared with your rain jacket!

Need travel insurance? Small Girl Big Backpack readers get 5% off Heymondo Insurance when booking through this link. With 24/7 worldwide assistance, this is the best insurance for travelers.

Can you see whale sharks in Moalboal?

No, Moalboal is not known for whale shark sightings.

While it’s a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving—especially for its famous sardine run, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs—you won’t typically see whale sharks (unless you’re extremely lucky).

Oslob is known for its whale sharks however this is not the most ethical place to see them – I’d check out Donsol for an ethical whale shark experience.

Moalboal Cafes & Breakfast: Final Thoughts

Well, that’s it! This post has detailed the very best Moalboal cafes, breakfast, and brunch spots!

There is a vibrant and diverse range of cafes and breakfast spots that cater to all tastes and preferences, from healthy smoothie bowls to hearty Filipino and Western breakfasts.

If you have visited any of these cafes or think I need to add one to the list, drop me a comment below!

If you’ve been to MoalboaI, I would love to hear from you – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!

Planning your Philippines trip?

With so many amazing islands to explore, how do you decide where to visit? For inspiration, itinerary ideas, and dream destinations, check out the following –

1-Month Philippines Itinerary – the ideal backpacking route exploring popular destinations & off-the-beaten-path spots

Top 10 Best Places To Visit in the Philippines – your ultimate guide to the best destinations to suit every type of traveler