There’s something magical about slow mornings on an island. The kind where the sun gently seeps through palm leaves, where time feels like it stands still, and where the only real decision you need to make is whether to start your day with coffee or a smoothie bowl. During a recent trip to Bantayan Island, we stumbled upon The Coco Cafe — a charming little tropical hideout that’s as aesthetic as it is satisfying.

Nestled along V. Illut Street in Santa Fe, just a short stroll from the ever-popular MJ Square, The Coco Cafe makes for a perfect breakfast or brunch spot after a sunrise beach walk or a laid-back morning bike ride around town. You won’t miss it — the café blends right into the island’s vibe with its rattan interiors, whitewashed walls, potted plants, and tropical accents that instantly call for a photo (or two… or ten).

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The Ambiance: Island Dreamin’

The second you step in, it feels like you’ve entered a Pinterest board come to life. Think breezy island aesthetics, cozy corners perfect for sipping lattes, and laid-back music in the background that makes you want to stay a little longer. It’s exactly the kind of spot you’d want to lounge in with sandy feet and salty hair. Whether you’re a solo traveler journaling your beach thoughts or a group of friends catching up over brunch, The Coco Cafe offers that sweet slice of serenity.

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Affordable Eats, Island Style

Let’s talk food — because while the ambiance sets the mood, the menu absolutely delivers. One of the biggest highlights of The Coco Cafe is how friendly the prices are, especially for a tourist destination. With full meals in the ₱150–₱180 range, smoothie bowls between ₱200–₱250, drinks around ₱180–₱200, and pastries priced just right — it’s honestly a steal, considering how beautifully plated and flavorful everything is.

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What We Ordered:

🌴 Mango Tango Smoothie Bowl
Hands down, a must-try. This bowl is tropical sunshine in edible form — vibrant, refreshing, and topped generously with granola, bananas, and fresh mangoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels healthy without skimping on taste. Bonus points for being super photogenic!

🌴 Danggit Breakfast with Tocino
You can’t come to Bantayan and not have danggit. This classic Filipino brekky combo came with a generous serving of crispy danggit, sweet tocino, garlic rice, and egg. The perfect salty-sweet fix to fuel up for a full day of island adventures.

🌴 Pan au Chocolait
Buttery, flaky, and just the right amount of indulgent. This one hit the spot for a light but satisfying pastry option. If you’re a fan of croissants with a touch of chocolatey goodness, this will make you happy.

🌴 Spanish Latte
Smooth, strong, and just a touch of sweetness — exactly how a Spanish Latte should be. It paired so well with the pan au chocolait that it felt like we were momentarily transported to a breezy café somewhere along the Mediterranean… if that Mediterranean had coconut trees, that is.

🌴 Matcha Latte
For matcha lovers, this is your drink. It was earthy, creamy, and served iced — the kind of refreshing sip you need in the middle of a warm island day.

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Final Thoughts: A Sweet Island Find

The Coco Cafe is more than just a coffee spot — it’s an experience. It captures the best parts of island life: good food, good vibes, and that unhurried energy that makes you want to savor every bite and every moment. Whether you’re on a staycation or just passing through Bantayan, this café deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Come for the smoothie bowls, stay for the ambiance, and leave with a happy heart (and maybe a new favorite breakfast spot). 🌞🌴