There's a Cartagena that sleeps in late, that wakes up to the bustle of the walls and the midday heat. And then there's Manga, that residential neighborhood that seems to hold a secret: its sunrises over the bay. When the rest of the city is still snoring, Manga is already awake, breathing in the salty air, offering its terraces and windows as a privileged tribune for the day's first spectacle. It's not the postcard Caribbean of tourism; it's the intimate Caribbean, the one you experience with a cup of coffee in hand and your gaze lost on the horizon where the sky melts into the sea.
This neighborhood, connected to the historic center by the Matuna bridge, has managed to preserve its quiet, almost small-town character, amidst large republican mansions and modern buildings. There's no rush in its streets at dawn. Only the murmur of the sea, the occasional song of a bird, and, if you're lucky, the sound of a small fishing boat's sails unfurling. Coming here for breakfast isn't just feeding your body; it's feeding your soul with calm and beauty.
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Where Coffee Tastes Like the Sea
La Terraza del Alba (Carrera 2 #25-98, 5th-floor terrace). Opens at 6:00 AM. It's not an official name, but rather what the residents have given to the terrace of the Miramar building. Here, breakfast is a ritual. For 25,000 pesos (approximately 6 USD in 2026), they serve you a natural orange or passion fruit juice, scrambled eggs with 'arepa de huevo' (egg-filled corn cake), and coffee from the Sierra Nevada. But what you're really paying for is the view: a 180-degree panorama of Cartagena's bay, with the first rays of sun gilding the waters and the silhouette of the Castillo de San Felipe in the background. Parking is limited (only 5 spaces), but getting there by taxi or walking from the center is easy.
Panadería La Bahía (Calle 24 #2-45, corner). Opens from 5:30 AM. This is the best-kept secret of the Cartagenans who work in Manga. It doesn't have a terrace, but its floor-to-ceiling windows are a living painting of the sunrise. For less than 15,000 pesos, you can assemble your own breakfast: a warm 'buñuelo' (fried cheese dough ball) (they come out of the oil at 6:00 AM), a cheese 'arepa', and a black coffee in a glass. It's a simple, unpretentious place where the smell of freshly baked bread mixes with the sea breeze. Wheelchair accessible and with space to park two or three cars in front of the establishment.
Café del Mar Manga (Carrera 1B #26-10, first floor). Opens at 6:30 AM. A more intimate and familiar version of the famous Café del Mar on the wall. Their specialty is international breakfasts: waffles with tropical fruits (18,000 pesos), açaí bowls (22,000 pesos), and personalized omelettes. They have a small terrace with four tables that look directly onto a stretch of the boardwalk. It's a favorite among couples and photographers because the morning light here is particularly soft, ideal for portraits. They recommend reserving a table for the terrace on weekends. Street parking is generally available at that hour.
Tips for Experiencing Your Manga Sunrise
The magic happens between 5:45 AM and 7:30 AM. After that, the sun becomes intense, and the bridge traffic begins. Getting here is simple: from the historic center, a taxi should not cost more than 10,000 pesos (2026 rate), and the journey is less than 10 minutes. If you come by car, most streets in Manga have free public parking at that hour, but read the signs carefully to avoid fines. Dress in fresh, light clothing, but bring a light jacket; the early morning sea breeze can be cool.
Don't come here hungry for tourist attractions. Come hungry for silence, for pastel colors in the sky, for that moment when the world seems to stop. Bring your camera, yes, but also bring the willingness to put it away and simply breathe.
A Gift to Carry with You All Day
Breakfast in Manga at dawn is not just a meal; it's a dose of peace. It charges you with a calm energy, with that serenity that only the sea gives when it's calm. You leave not only with a full stomach but with eyes full of a landscape that will accompany you for the rest of the day. While the rest of the tourists queue to enter museums, you already carry within you the most authentic image of Cartagena: that of a neighborhood that, every morning, gifts its first hours to the sea.
Interested in living this experience? Next time you're in Cartagena, set an early alarm. Cross the bridge. Feel how the air changes. And let Manga and its sunrise welcome you. You won't find folkloric shows or street vendors at this hour. You will only find, perhaps, the most honest and beautiful version of the city.
Introduction
Did you know that the Manga neighborhood, with its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, is Cartagena's best-kept secret for breakfast? As the sun peeks over the horizon, this place transforms into a perfect stage to enjoy a good coffee and local delicacies. Here's a list of the best spots to savor breakfast with the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop.
Café del Mar
Located on the iconic wall of the historic center, Café del Mar is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking sea views. Here you can enjoy a delicious breakfast while listening to the gentle murmur of the waves. Insider Tip: Go early to get a table on the terrace and don't miss their famous seafood omelette.
Address: Calle 1 # 7-60, Centro Histórico. Price range: $20,000 - $50,000 COP.
La Cocina de Pepina
This small but cozy place stands out for its traditional Cartagena cuisine. Its breakfasts are an explosion of fresh, local flavors. Insider Tip: Order the 'huevo perico' (scrambled eggs with onions and tomatoes) accompanied by arepas, you won't regret it!
Address: Calle del Limonar, Manga. Price range: $15,000 - $30,000 COP.
El Bistro
On a quiet corner of Manga, El Bistro offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that combines the freshness of local ingredients with a gourmet touch. Their coffee is among the best in the city. Insider Tip: Don't miss trying their French toast, it's a local favorite.
Address: Avenida San Martín # 2-50, Manga. Price range: $25,000 - $45,000 COP.
Panadería La Esquina
A place where the aroma of freshly baked bread envelops you from the street. This bakery is known for its croissants and artisanal breads. Insider Tip: Buy some to take away and enjoy them on the beach later.
Address: Calle 16 # 1-30, Manga. Price range: $5,000 - $15,000 COP.
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Café San Alberto
Located in the heart of Manga, this café is famous for its Colombian single-origin coffee. With sea views, you can enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by a cup of their best coffee. Its cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal place to start the day.
La Casa de la Pasta
This place offers a breakfast menu that includes Italian and local options. With a spectacular view, it's perfect for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and a good pasta dish in the morning. The service is especially friendly.
Panadería El Libertador
This establishment is known for its fresh breads and pastry products. A classic in the area, it's the ideal place to grab something quick to go or enjoy a light breakfast on its small terrace. The croissants are especially recommended.
La Pérgola
This restaurant offers a breakfast buffet with an incredible variety of options. From fresh fruits to typical regional dishes, it's an excellent place to enjoy with the family. The sea views are simply stunning.
La Mulata
Although better known for its lunch, La Mulata also offers a delicious breakfast. The mix of Caribbean flavors with international touches makes its menu unique. Ideal for those who want to try something different in a vibrant atmosphere.
Café del Mar
Famous for its location on the walls of Cartagena, this café offers a breakfast with sunset views rather than sunrise. However, its breakfast options are unparalleled. The atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a coffee while contemplating the sea.
Map or How to Get There
Café del Mar
Situated in one of Cartagena's most iconic areas, Café del Mar offers a breathtaking sea view and a relaxing atmosphere. Ideal for enjoying a late breakfast with artisanal coffee as the sun's rays illuminate the horizon. Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the terrace and don't forget to try their famous 'pan de yuca' (yucca bread).
Address: Av. del Malecón, Cartagena. Price range: $20,000 - $50,000 COP.
La Cevichería
Although famous for its ceviches, La Cevichería also has a surprising breakfast. With sea views on one of Getsemaní's busiest streets, this place is perfect for those looking for a different twist on their breakfast. Insider Tip: Order the shrimp omelette, it's a real hit and not always on the menu.
Address: Calle de la Cruz, Getsemaní, Cartagena. Price range: $25,000 - $60,000 COP.
Conclusion or Final Recommendation
While the breakfast spots in Manga offer a variety of delicious options, there are a couple of additional gems you can't miss. Here are two recommendations that perfectly complement any breakfast with sea views.
El Barco de la Vida
Located right at the water's edge, El Barco de la Vida not only offers a typical Caribbean breakfast but also a relaxing atmosphere that makes it ideal for starting the day. Be sure to try their 'arepa de huevo', a local classic that isn't always on the menu. Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the cool breeze and avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Address: Calle 24 # 9-45, Manga. Price range: $20,000 - $40,000 COP.
Casa de la Cerveza
This place is a bit different, as it combines a passion for breakfast with a variety of local craft beers. They offer a selection of breakfasts inspired by Caribbean flavors, all in a cozy setting. Insider Tip: Ask about their daily special, as they often have dishes not on the regular menu.
Address: Calle 24 # 10-50, Manga. Price range: $25,000 - $50,000 COP.