Cape Town: A Runner’s Dream Destination

You’ve booked your flight, you’ve secured your entry, and now… It’s time to plan your trip – Cape Town has so much to offer! With the ocean, the mountains, and an energetic and dynamic city centre, Cape Town truly has it all. Whether you’re chasing that first celebratory beer, craving an ice-cold ocean dip, or looking for the perfect spot to refuel with world-class food and wine, the vibrant neighbourhoods around Green Point and Sea Point will not disappoint.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best pre and post-run experiences, just steps from the marathon route. From soaking up some rays on our idyllic beaches and plunging in our icy waters to refresh, or sipping on artisan coffee and enjoying a delicious local meal, this is your go-to for making the most of your Cape Town adventure.

Sip & Celebrate: Best Coffees

After touching down in Cape Town, it’s time to top up the caffeine reserves and to start exploring the city. Luckily, Cape Town’s coffee culture is second to none. With these next few spots all within walking distance (or a short Uber if the legs are feeling shaky post-race) from the race village, they are perfect for your caffeine fix. 

• Arthur’s Mini Super – A local favourite. With its old school red diner décor and its prime location right by the promenade, Arthur’s is known for its eclectic interior and quirky energy as well as their stylish range of merchandise.
• Shift Espresso Bar – Modern, chic, and serious about their espresso, Shift not only offers great coffee but they have some fabulous light bites on offer. Consider yourself a coffee connoisseur? Then this is the place for you!
• Jason’s Bakery – Situated on the Green Point Main Road, just a stone’s throw from race village, this bakery is an excellent choice for an early morning treat. With an opening time of 06:30 you know that a hot coffee and delicious pastry will be ready and waiting for you after an early morning shake-out run along the promenade!
• Woolworths Café – Also in Green Point, Woolworths is a great place to go for a quick coffee and refuel! Their small café has good coffee and is attached to their grocery store where you can stock up on easy snacks and ready-made meals for your beach trips and adventures later on in the day. The food is always fresh and excellent quality, perfect for all occasions.

Dip & Detox: Ocean Plunges & Beach Time

Cape Town’s Atlantic waters are refreshingly cold, which is perfect for muscle recovery after a long run. The promenade area gives you easy access to some of the best spots to cool off. Capetonians love an early morning cold plunge with a piping hot coffee afterwards to warm up and, once you try it out, we guarantee you’ll love it as well!

• Saunders Rock Tidal Pool – A stunning natural pool with dramatic views, popular with locals for cold water immersion. This is also the go-to spot for a sunset picnic with friends and if you head there in the evening, you will see a hive of people enjoying the beauty of a Cape Town sunset.
• Clifton 1st or 2nd Beach – A short drive from the race village, great for a proper beach day. With this being so popular amongst locals and tourists alike we suggest you head there early to guarantee a good spot!
• Sea Point Pavilion – An iconic public pool filled with water from the ocean with incredible views and icy temperatures year-round. The perfect place for some post-run recovery laps after the marathon! There are also a host of pop-up coffee carts and food trailers so you can treat yourself post swim.

Cheers to You: Best Bars for a Post-Race Drink

Some people will attest that one of the best things to do after a nice long run is to drink an ice cold beer. With Castle Lite being our beer of choice it is too easy to have a guilt-free post-run beer to celebrate. It’s a no-brainer with half the calories and double the enjoyment!

• Only Fools – If you’re after energy and good vibes in Sea Point then Only Fools is the place to go. With great beers on tap and delicious burgers at the ready, it never disappoints. Sit here at their window bar and watch the people of Cape Town walk by.
• Blondie – Arguably Cape Town’s most popular bar. With bright yellow umbrellas and the best palomas around, Blondie has fast become a Cape Town icon. With it being so popular make sure you head there early to avoid the queue; it’s worth it!
• Maggy Lou’s – A small but vibey bar in Sea Point, Maggy Lou’s has a more intimate vibe and is great for an early evening drink. It is also a breakfast restaurant during the day so head there either early morning for a coffee or late afternoon for a beer, neither will disappoint.
• Van Hunks – in the city centre and with a great terrace, Van Hunks is the perfect place to go and have an ice cold beer. With a variety of beers on tap and a delicious food menu, it’s yet another fun bar to add to your list of stops.

Treat Yourself: Ice Cream & Smoothie Stops

Looking to celebrate your run with something sweet? Whether it is a warm day out or even a cool one, there is never a day to say no to some delicious ice cream! It’s the one food that really gives you that “now I’m on holiday” feel.

• The Creamery (Sea Point) – Handcrafted local ice cream made with real ingredients. Try the salted caramel, it is one of our favourites!
• Crumbs & Cream – Ice cream sandwiches for those who deserve the most indulgent reward. 
• Nü Health Café – Smoothie bowls and health shakes for the nutrition-conscious runner. They’re still tasty while being slightly more nutritious than your ice cream option!
• Unframed Ice Cream – A must-visit for unique, small-batch flavours. Also a fun trip into the city centre where you can explore the streets of Cape Town whilst enjoying your sweet treat. It might be a bit further than the other options, but it’s worth the Uber.

Stretch It Out: Iconic Hikes in Cape Town

Once you’ve had a rest day (or two), it’s time to lace up your shoes again because Cape Town’s trails are calling. Whether you’re after sweeping views, forest paths, or sunrise summits, there’s a hike for you 

• Lions Head – A local favourite and perfect for sunrise or sunset. Expect panoramic views, a bit of scrambling, and a major “wow” moment at the top. Go early to beat the crowds.
• Kloof Corner – Short but steep, this 20–30 minute ascent rewards you with sweeping views of the city and Table Bay. A great choice if you want maximum reward for minimum effort. 
• Cecilia Forest to Kirstenbosch – Shaded, peaceful, and less crowded than Table Mountain trails. You’ll pass waterfalls and can end off with a picnic in Kirstenbosch Gardens.
• Platteklip Gorge – The most direct route up Table Mountain. It’s a tough stair-like climb, so save this one for when your legs feel fully recovered, the views are worth every step. Plus, it’s one of the few routes you can’t get lost on as it’s only one way up. Best part of Platteklip? The incredible cable car ride down the mountain!

Table Mountain has a variety of different hiking trails that range from moderate to super tough. Depending on how you are feeling you can also check out one of the many other trails! https://hiketablemountain.co.za/hiking-routes-table-mountain/

Local Tip: Always check weather conditions before hiking, pack a warm top, hydration and snacks, and fully charged cellphone. Go early in the morning to avoid heat or wind. If you’re solo, consider joining a local hiking group or booking a guide for safety.

Refuel in Style: Where to Eat After the Race

Cape Town is a city made for eating well, and after 42km on your feet, you’ve more than earned a great meal. Whether you’re after fresh local seafood, a laid-back brunch, or a sunset dinner, these post-race dining spots are worth the reservation.

• The Bungalow – For runners who want to celebrate in style, The Bungalow delivers ocean views, chic vibes, and a menu packed with seafood, sushi, and delicious cocktails. Sit down with a beautiful view and enjoy some bubbles, you earned it!
• The Strangers Club – Tucked away behind greenery on a quiet side street, this boho-style café is a favourite for post-race brunch or long lunches. Expect healthy but hearty bowls, wraps, fresh juices, and a relaxed garden atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.
• The Athletic Club & Social – A nod to old-school sports clubs with a modern twist, this beautiful three-story venue offers Mediterranean-inspired small plates, great wine, and a classy-but-fun vibe for post-race meetups. Head to the rooftop for city views and cocktails.
• SPYCED – Immerse yourself in the true South African experience at SPYCED. With djembe drums upon arrival and a live South African jazz band playing throughout your dinner your experience here will be one to write home about. 

Slow Down, Savour & Explore

From the salty Atlantic breeze along the promenade to the rich aroma of small-batch coffee, from crisp ocean plunges to long, laughter-filled dinners with views of Table Mountain, Cape Town invites you to slow down, savour, and explore. It’s a place where post-run recovery blends effortlessly with discovery, and every moment outside the race becomes part of the story you’ll take home.

So, whether you’re here for a few extra days or making it the cornerstone of a longer South African adventure, consider this your invitation to experience the city like a local; with curiosity, and an appetite for the beautiful, the delicious, and the unforgettable.