The Best Cafés and Coffee Shops in Haeundae

Set on the arty Dalmaji Hill (sometimes called the Montmartre of Busan), Bibibidang is famous for its traditional style Korean teas. It has a great location, with sweeping ocean views, and dishes up some delicious Korean desserts including hobakbingsu (sweet pumpkin shaved ice). All the teas are served with dashik, small pieces of confectionary designed to accompany tea. Both Western-style and traditional Korean style seating is available.

Coco Cake & Coffee is well known amongst Busan locals for its delicious desserts. It’s on Dalmaji Hill, just off the main cherry-blossom viewing road. It’s a good place to go if you’re craving light and creamy cake — try the cherry cake, white roll cake or a chewy cookie. The atmosphere is quiet and cosy, and there’s plenty of fresh fruit on the menu.

Port 1902 is a little tricky to get to without a car (it’s located at the end of Songjeong Beach), but if you drive, or can take a taxi, it’s well worth the visit. Somewhere between a café and a private club, it has sea views, a large bakery, and a swimming pool for guests to enjoy. Although it’s a little pricy (especially for food), it’s a great place to spend a few hours in summer. At night, the pool is illuminated, last orders are at 11pm and the café closes at midnight, so there’s plenty of time to finish off your drinks.

A small café in the expat-friendly area of Marine City, Cafe Marine Terrace serves great coffee and some of the best Belgian waffles in Busan — which come smothered in cream and fresh fruit if you so desire. It serves a number of brunch options, including bagels, pizza, salad, sandwiches, and a variety of fried foods.

On the third floor of Sunset Business Hotel, Coffee Mandalay is close to Haeundae Beach. It focuses on fresh, organic food and has lots of vegetarian options. Perhaps due to its location in the hotel building, it’s normally fairly quiet, but well worth a visit. The café is a great option for hungry breakfasters — a full breakfast buffet is offered for 12,000 won ($11/£8) per person. In an area dominated by large café chains, it’s a good alternative to these. The café has a view onto the Haeundae Beach area.

As the name might imply, this café is on a rooftop. It has one of the best ocean views in Busan, and its bright and breezy decor brings the sunshine inside, even on colder days. Cafe Rooftop is located in the traditional fishing village of Cheongsapo, which you can stroll to from Haeundae Beach along a disused railway track. Alternatively, it takes approximately 12 minutes from Haeundae metro station by taxi.