The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has grown into one of the most sought-after running events in the Mother City, attracting thousands of runners and supporters from South Africa and around the world.
As the flagship event of the Cape Town Marathon Festival, it has become far more than a local race weekend. Cape Town is currently on the global marathon stage as an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate race, with the ambition of becoming Africa’s first World Marathon Major. This has added even more international attention to the event, especially as runners look ahead to future editions, including the 2027 Cape Town Marathon.
For spectators, the Cape Town Marathon is just as exciting as it is for the runners. The route showcases some of the city’s most iconic scenery, from the Atlantic seaboard and city streets to unforgettable views of Table Mountain. It is one of the most beautiful urban marathons in the world, and the growing World Marathon Majors interest only adds to the atmosphere on race day.
However, because the marathon passes through key areas of Cape Town, several roads are closed to vehicles on race day. Planning ahead is essential if you want to move between spectator points, support your runner at multiple locations, or avoid getting stuck in traffic.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best spectator spots for the Cape Town Marathon, along with alternative routes you can use to get around the city.
To make the most of your spectator experience, it helps to understand the Cape Town Marathon course, the major road closures, and where you’ll have the best chance of seeing your runner on the day.
Cape Marathon Course Overview
The Cape Town Marathon traditionally starts in Green Point, with runners setting off from the area around Fritz Sonnenberg Road before making their way towards Beach Road and the V&A Waterfront precinct.
From the early stages of the race, the route gives runners and spectators a taste of what makes this event so special: city streets, coastal views, iconic landmarks, and the unmistakable backdrop of Table Mountain.
As the marathon continues, runners pass through key areas of Cape Town, including the Foreshore, Claremont, Rondebosch, Mowbray, Observatory, Salt River, District Six, the CBD, Gardens, Green Point, and Sea Point before returning towards the finish near Green Point Athletic Stadium.
This city-wide route is one of the reasons the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has earned international attention. As an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate race, it is working towards becoming Africa’s first World Marathon Major. That means the event continues to attract growing interest from local and international runners, making the atmosphere on race day even more exciting for spectators.
However, because the marathon passes through several busy parts of the city, road closures are a major part of race-day planning. Roads around the start and finish area in Green Point, as well as sections of Beach Road, Granger Bay Boulevard, the Foreshore, Claremont, Observatory, Salt River, District Six, the CBD, and Sea Point, are typically affected.
Some closures begin very early in the morning, especially around the start area, while others remain in place until late morning or early afternoon, depending on where they fall along the course. Access may also be restricted in areas where runners are expected to pass, and parking is often limited or prohibited along certain sections of the route.
If you’re planning to support a runner at multiple points, it’s important to check the official Cape Town Marathon road-closure guide closer to race day. The final 2027 route and closure times may be updated by the organisers, especially as the event continues its journey towards World Marathon Majors status.
A good spectator plan should include:
- Knowing where your runner is likely to be at key points on the course.
- Choosing spectator spots that are easy to reach on foot or by public transport.
- Allowing extra travel time because of road closures and traffic delays.
- Avoiding last-minute driving near the start, finish, and major course crossing points.
- Checking the official event website for the latest route maps, road closures, and access updates.
For many spectators, some of the best places to watch the Cape Town Marathon include the V&A Waterfront area, the Foreshore, Claremont, Observatory, District Six, Sea Point, Green Point, and the final stretch near the stadium. These areas offer a mix of atmosphere, scenery, and practical access, making them ideal spots to cheer on runners as they take on one of Africa’s most exciting marathon events.
More road closures are usually in place around Green Point, Sea Point, Somerset Road, Beach Road, Buitengracht Street, and Helen Suzman Boulevard. These areas are especially important for spectators to note, as they are close to popular viewing points and the final stages of the race.
Somerset Road, from Granger Bay Boulevard to Buitengracht Street, is typically affected by inbound lane closures. A contraflow may be in place on the outbound lane, with the Granger Bay Boulevard circle remaining open. Parking is usually not allowed on the inbound lane during this time.
Main Road, from Three Anchor Bay Road to Granger Bay Boulevard, may also have inbound lane closures, with a contraflow operating on the outbound lane. The Granger Bay Boulevard circle generally remains open, but parking restrictions are expected along the affected section.
Three Anchor Bay Road, from Main Road to Beach Road, is usually fully closed, with no parking allowed.
Beach Road, from Helen Suzman Boulevard to Queens Road, is one of the key affected roads on race day. This section is usually fully closed for an extended period, and no parking is allowed.
Buitengracht Street, around the Riebeek Street and Somerset Road inbound intersection, is also commonly affected. Access across the closed road may be allowed during specific windows, but this can vary depending on the final race-day traffic plan. A common detour in this area is via Somerset Road, Granger Bay Boulevard, and Helen Suzman Boulevard.
Helen Suzman Boulevard, between Beach Road and Granger Bay Boulevard, is another major section to plan around. Both inbound and outbound lanes may be closed for much of the race-day period, especially as runners move through the Green Point and Sea Point sections of the route.
Because these closures affect several of the best spectator areas, it’s worth planning your movements carefully. If you’re hoping to support a runner near Sea Point, Green Point, or the finish area, try to arrive early, use public transport where possible, and avoid relying on last-minute vehicle access.
For the 2027 Cape Town Marathon, spectators should always check the official road-closure notice closer to race weekend, as final times, access points, and detours may change from year to year.
The Best Spectator Spots For The 2027 Cape Town Marathon
Whether you’re supporting a friend, family member, clubmate, or simply soaking up the race-day atmosphere, the Cape Town Marathon offers plenty of great spectator spots across the city.
As the event continues its journey as an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate race, with the goal of becoming Africa’s first World Marathon Major, the atmosphere around the route is only getting bigger. For spectators, that means more energy, more international excitement, and more reasons to plan your race-day movements properly.
Below are some of the best places to watch the Cape Town Marathon and support runners along the route.
Start and Finish Area: Green Point
The Cape Town Marathon traditionally starts near the DHL Stadium precinct on Fritz Sonnenberg Road and finishes on Vlei Road in Green Point.
This is where the race-day energy is at its highest. At the start, you’ll see runners setting off with fresh legs and nervous excitement. At the finish, you’ll witness the emotion, relief, and celebration as runners complete their marathon journey.
Spectators can usually catch the early action around Fritz Sonnenberg Road, Beach Road, and the surrounding Green Point area before runners make their way towards Granger Bay Boulevard.
Because this area is close to both the start and finish, it is also one of the busiest parts of the route. Access may be restricted, and some areas near the finish line may be controlled due to crowds, security, and event operations.
The DHL Stadium precinct is generally well connected by the MyCiTi bus service, with stops nearby, making public transport a practical option on race day.
6km: Woodstock
Around the 6km mark, runners usually pass through the Woodstock area, near Victoria Road and Fairview Avenue.
At this early point in the race, most runners are still feeling strong and relaxed. It’s a good spot to cheer them on before the marathon starts to get more demanding.
This section can also be useful for spectators who want to support runners early in the race before moving to another point later on.
12km: Claremont Boulevard and Mill Street
At approximately 12km, runners make their way through Claremont, near Claremont Boulevard and Mill Street.
This is a convenient spectator point for those based in the southern suburbs. If you’re already in the area on race morning, it’s an easy place to add some support to the route.
Runners are still in the first third of the marathon here, so a loud cheer, a familiar face, or a quick wave can give them a helpful boost before they head further along the course.
15km: Rondebosch Park
Around the 15km mark, Rondebosch Park is another great place to watch the race.
This area offers a pleasant spectator experience, with space to stand along the route and support runners as they settle into the rhythm of the marathon. Nearby cafés and restaurants may also make it a good option for spectators who want to grab a coffee while watching the race.
19km to 20km: Rondebosch Common
Rondebosch Common is a valuable support point as runners approach the halfway mark.
This part of the race can start to feel more serious for many participants. The early excitement has settled, but there is still a long way to go. Encouragement here can make a real difference, especially for runners who are beginning to focus mentally on the second half of the marathon.
25km to 27km: Salt River
Between roughly 25km and 27km, runners pass through the Salt River area, including sections around Albert Road and Newmarket Street.
This is where the marathon can start to feel mentally challenging. The halfway point is behind them, fatigue may be building, and runners are beginning to dig deeper.
Spectators in this section can provide much-needed energy. A strong cheer here can help runners stay focused as they move towards the tougher later stages of the race.
30km: District Six and Darling Street
The 30km mark is one of the most important psychological points in any marathon, and the Cape Town Marathon route makes this section especially memorable.
Around Darling Street and District Six, runners pass close to some of Cape Town’s most significant landmarks, including the Castle of Good Hope, City Hall, and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
This section is also where runners may face one of the more demanding parts of the course. By now, many are entering the toughest phase of the race, so loud support and positive energy can be a huge help.
31km to 34km: CBD, Gardens, Orange Street and Long Street
Between approximately 31km and 34km, runners move through central parts of the city, including areas around Plein Street, St Johns Street, Hatfield Street, Orange Street, and Long Street.
This is one of the most exciting spectator sections of the course. The city-centre atmosphere, nearby residents, restaurants, and potential cheer zones can make this stretch feel lively and motivating.
It’s also a crucial point for runners. Many marathoners start to hit the mental and physical wall somewhere in this section, so encouragement from spectators can help them keep going when the race gets tough.
35km: Green Point Main Road
Around the 35km mark, runners return towards Green Point Main Road.
By this stage, they are close enough to the finish to start believing they can get there, but there is still a difficult final stretch ahead. This makes Green Point Main Road a fantastic place to support runners before they head into the last part of the race.
There are usually plenty of brunch and lunch options in the area, which makes it a practical spectator spot if you want to stay nearby and enjoy the race-day atmosphere.
40km: Sea Point
At around 40km, runners are deep into the final stages of the marathon, often along or near Beach Road and St John’s Road in Sea Point.
This is one of the best places to cheer because runners are so close to the finish but often need every bit of encouragement they can get. At this point, most runners are tired, emotional, and focused on making it to the line.
A familiar face, a loud cheer, or a simple “you’re nearly there” can mean a lot here.
42km: Helen Suzman Boulevard and the Finish in Green Point
The final stretch brings runners back towards Green Point, with the finish traditionally located on Vlei Road near Green Point Athletic Stadium.
This is where the biggest moments of the day happen. From the elite runners finishing early in the morning to thousands of everyday runners completing their marathon later on, the finish area is full of emotion.
Public seating may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but the area can get very busy. If you want a good view of the finish, plan to arrive early and check the official spectator information before race day.
Can I Track My Runner Live On Race Day?
In previous editions, spectators have been able to track runners through the UltimateLIVE app by searching for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon event and entering a runner’s name or race number.
Once selected, runners could be added to a favourites list, with notifications available at key split points along the course.
For the 2027 Cape Town Marathon, it’s best to check the official event website and race communication closer to race weekend to confirm which tracking app or platform will be used.
How To Watch Or Follow The Cape Town Marathon Live
If you can’t make it to the route in person, there are usually several ways to follow the Cape Town Marathon from home.
Previous editions have included live coverage through South African broadcast channels, radio updates, official social media reports, and online streaming options.
Because broadcast partners and streaming platforms can change from year to year, check the official Cape Town Marathon website and social media channels closer to the 2027 event for the latest live coverage details.
Top Tips For Cape Town Marathon Spectators
Know your runner’s race number
Make sure you know your runner’s race number before race day. This will make it easier to track them through the official app or tracking platform, and it can also help you estimate when they may reach certain points on the route.
Know what your runner is wearing
Large crowds can make it difficult to spot someone quickly. Ask your runner what they’ll be wearing, including their shirt colour, cap, club kit, or any standout accessories.
It also helps to tell your runner where you’ll be standing and what you’ll be wearing, especially if you want them to spot you from the road.
Cheer for everyone
Even if you’re there to support one specific person, cheer for the runners around them too.
A marathon is a tough challenge, and positive crowd energy can lift everyone. Call out names if they’re printed on race bibs or shirts, clap, ring a cowbell, and use encouraging phrases like “you’ve got this”, “keep going”, or “strong running”.
Plan your accommodation early
If you’re travelling to Cape Town for the marathon weekend, book accommodation well in advance.
Hotels and guesthouses near the start, finish, and popular spectator areas can fill up quickly, especially as the race continues to attract more international attention through its World Marathon Majors candidacy.
Wear comfortable shoes
Spectating a marathon often involves more walking than expected. You may need to move between viewing points, walk around road closures, or stand for long periods.
Comfortable walking or running shoes are a must.
Prepare for Cape Town weather
Cape Town weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring. It can be cool and windy early in the morning, warmer later in the day, or even wet depending on conditions.
Dress in layers and consider bringing a windbreaker, rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, and anything else you may need to stay comfortable.
Bring water and snacks
Race day can be long, especially if you’re supporting someone from the start to the finish.
Carry water, snacks, and any essentials you may need while moving around the city. Staying hydrated and fuelled will make your spectator experience much more enjoyable.
Pack a power bank
Tracking apps, photos, videos, maps, and messages can drain your phone battery quickly.
Bring a fully charged power bank so you can track your runner, stay in touch, and capture those important finish-line moments.
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