Coastal half marathon to Camps Bay and back

Cape Town's cruise port is considered one of the world's most spectacular cruise ports – with direct views of Table Mountain and immediate proximity to the city. At the same time, Cape Town offers excellent opportunities for active experiences.

This half marathon route takes you from the cruise port through the V&A Waterfront district, along the coastline to Camps Bay, and back past the DHL Stadium. The route passes exclusively through areas that are generally considered safe.

Key facts

Highlights

Route description

Start near the Cruise Port & V&A Waterfront

Since there can be some traffic around the cruise terminal, we recommend walking calmly to the starting point just outside the port area. From there, the route first leads through the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront district. Here you cross a drawbridge, so short waiting times are possible.

Coastal Promenade to Camps Bay

After leaving the Waterfront district, you reach the coastal promenade. Here the route follows the ocean for several kilometers. You can choose between a wide pedestrian path next to the road and a paved walkway directly along the water – the latter is significantly more scenic. After around 8 kilometers and passing the Clifton Beaches, you reach the suburb of Camps Bay with its beautiful beach and impressive panorama.

Return via Green Point & DHL Stadium

The return follows the same route initially. At Three Anchor Bay (after approximately 17.5 km), the route turns right towards Green Point Park. From there, you continue towards the DHL Stadium, pass the stadium, and return to the Waterfront district and optionally back to the cruise terminal.

Conclusion

This coastal route is one of the most beautiful running options directly from Cape Town's cruise port. The views of the ocean, Table Mountain, Lion's Head, and the Twelve Apostles make the run exceptionally scenic. Camps Bay is a perfect turnaround point – if necessary, you can easily return from there by Uber or Bolt. Keep in mind, however, that wind and sun can make the run more challenging.

Perfect day

Start the day directly after arrival with the coastal half marathon along the promenade to Camps Bay and back. Temperatures are usually more pleasant in the morning, leaving enough time afterwards for a relaxed remainder of the day.

After the run, a calmer activity is a great option. One of the most popular experiences is taking the cable car up Table Mountain. The cable car station can easily be reached by Hop-On-Hop-Off bus, Uber, or Bolt.

At the top, you will enjoy spectacular views over Cape Town, the coastline, and the harbor – perfect after an active start to the day.

Alternatively, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing in the V&A Waterfront district. The area offers numerous restaurants, cafés, and shopping opportunities directly by the water – ideal for recovering and enjoying the atmosphere.

If you want to treat yourself to a special highlight after the half marathon, we recommend a helicopter flight over Cape Town. You will enjoy incredible views of Table Mountain, the coastline, and the city – a perfect ending to an active day.

Frequently asked questions

Does the route start directly at the cruise port or do I need transportation?

The route starts just outside the port area in immediate proximity to the cruise port. No transfer is required.

How does navigation with the map and GPX file work? Do I need internet access?

You can either follow the route directly using the map on this page or import the GPX file into a navigation app such as Komoot. We recommend navigation via the GPX file, as it is significantly more precise and provides clear GPS guidance while running. Once the GPX file is saved in your app, the map can usually also be used offline. We recommend testing the navigation beforehand in airplane mode without active Wi-Fi to ensure that it also works without an internet connection.

**Tip:**

For safety reasons, it is still useful to have internet access while traveling. For cruises, a global data plan that works across multiple countries can be helpful, for example from eSIM.sm (advertisement).

Is the route safe?

Traffic plays only a minor role on this route, as wide pedestrian paths are available throughout. The route also passes through neighborhoods that are generally considered very safe. In addition, many joggers, walkers, and tourists are usually around. Nevertheless, you should of course always remain reasonably attentive.

What should I do if I run out of energy or time becomes tight?

Especially for afternoon runs, make sure to allow enough time buffer before departure. If time becomes tight, you can simply turn around earlier on the way to Camps Bay. Alternatively, taxis can usually be ordered quickly via apps such as Uber or Bolt. For emergencies, it is also recommended to save the ship's phone number in advance, which is usually listed in the daily cruise program.

Are there public toilets and drinking water along the route?

Toilets can be found in the shopping malls within the Waterfront district as well as in Camps Bay. A water fountain is available in Green Point Park. In Camps Bay, there are many opportunities to buy drinks.

What surface does the route use and what equipment do you recommend?

The route runs on asphalted and paved paths. Regular road running shoes are ideal. In sunny conditions, we recommend a cap, sunglasses, and sufficient hydration. A collapsible soft flask (ad) is particularly practical, as it can be refilled in Green Point Park. In addition, carrying a payment method is useful, although card and smartphone payments are generally accepted almost everywhere in Cape Town.

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