TWO OCEANS MARATHON 2025: WHERE ROADS MEET OCEANS AND STORIES BEGIN

Cape Town will once again come alive this April as thousands of runners commence the 56th Two Oceans Marathon. This is not just another race. It is a moment in the city’s calendar when the sea air feels charged, the mountains stand a little taller, and every road hums with energy. Whether you are running it, supporting someone who is, or just soaking it all in, you are part of something that matters.

The Two Oceans is known around the world as the most beautiful marathon. That beauty is not just in the scenery, although you will find plenty of that. It is in the crowd, the early morning start-line hush, the surge of emotion near the finish, and the way Cape Town wraps around you like a second skin. For anyone who has run it, watched it, or stood cheering at Constantia Nek, it stays with you.

Race Weekend Information

The 56-kilometre Ultra Marathon starts on Saturday, 5 April 2025 at 05:40 in the morning. The Half Marathon follows on Sunday with a 06:00 start. Both races begin on Main Road in Newlands and end on the University of Cape Town rugby fields in Rondebosch.

The Ultra route pulls runners through Muizenberg and Fish Hoek before climbing Chapman’s Peak, looping into Hout Bay and then grinding uphill toward Constantia. The final stretch leads them into the University of Cape Town, legs burning but hearts full. The Half stays closer to home with a steady climb up Southern Cross Drive that delivers its kind of challenge.

Last year, over 13 000 runners tackled the Ultra and 16 000 ran the Half. Thousands more came just to cheer.

The Expo Moves to Green Point

This year’s Expo is at the iconic DHL Stadium in Green Point and runs from 2 to 5 April. For runners, it’s a must-visit spot because race packs can only be picked up there, so put it on your calendar. Last year, more than 89,000 people came through, and it’s easy to see why. Get there early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the full experience.

Runners, you’ll find tons of great running gear, the newest gadgets, and a real sense of excitement before the big day. You can try on the latest edition of running shoes, grab some energy gels, or just take in the vibe as race day gets closer. 

Supporters, you should come too. It’s a great place to pick up things like race essentials, cool clothing, or a little gift to boost your runner’s spirits. Everything you need or want is there, all part of the Two Oceans excitement.

For the Runners

This race has its own beat, and if you’ve run it before, you know how to conquer it. 
“The most beautiful part of the Two Oceans Marathon is Chapman’s Peak,” says 7th time Ultra Marathon runner, Carl Ronander. “It’s a hard climb up to the summit, but once you’re there, it’s all downhill with incredible views that push you forward. After the race, I always make sure to look after my legs, resting and soaking in Epsom salts, or getting a sports massage to loosen them up. If it’s your first time running this, take my advice: don’t go too fast at the beginning when it’s flat and easy. Save your energy for the big challenges, like the climb at Chapman’s Peak and then Constantia Nek later on.”

The Ultra’s first 28 kilometres feel steady and tempting, but that’s where you pace yourself. Chapman’s Peak asks for more effort, and Constantia Nek steps it up even further. For Half Marathon runners, the course is shorter but still challenging. Southern Cross Drive can test even the strongest legs and leave them wobbly by the end.

Aid stations are set up every 3 to 4 kilometres with water, Coke and energy gels. Bring your own if you have preferences. The weather swings between cool mornings around 12 degrees and hot finishes pushing well above 25. Wear a cap, apply sunscreen and keep drinking fluids.

The number one rule is simple. Do not go out too fast. No medal is worth burning out halfway.

For the Supporters

When you cheer on a friend, partner, or family member, your support brings more power and joy than you might realize.

What to wear

Mornings start off cold, so bring layers. As the day warms, you will want a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. You will walk and stand a lot. A backpack with snacks, tissues and a power bank will make you a crowd-day hero.

Make a sign. Something personal. It helps more than you know.

Here is how to do it right

Gear Tips and Planning

For runners, gear should be light and moisture-controlled. A comfortable race belt, a timing chip, a pair of reliable shoes and a bit of chafe balm will go a long way. Trail runners should pack extra water and snacks if taking on the 12 or 22-kilometre routes on Friday.

Parking near the Expo is limited. Use the CTICC with MyCiTi bus connections or arrive early before 10 a.m. E-hailing drop-offs in Green Point face delays on race day. If you are staying in Sea Point or Green Point, walk when you can and avoid driving close to the stadium.

A Race To Remember

Two Oceans Pendant crafted in silver and 14K yellow gold. Click here to shop.

You cross the finish line, medal around your neck, legs aching and face sun-warmed. But long after the race shirt fades, you’ll want something that holds the memory.

That’s where the Shimansky “Our Two Oceans” pendant and ring come in. These limited-edition pieces feature the silhouette of Table Mountain, with the line of the Cape Peninsula carved into gold or silver. You can customise yours with an engraving — “Two Oceans 2025” — to mark the moment forever.

It’s not just jewellery. It’s a piece of memorabilia that honours your run, your effort, and your place in something iconic. Whether you ran the Ultra, the Half, the Trail Run or simply supported someone you love, this is a piece that speaks without words.

You don’t need to win gold to go for gold. Just finishing the world’s most scenic road race makes you a winner. And that deserves to be remembered.

Orders can be placed online or at the Shimansky V&A Waterfront Store. Pieces are ready for pickup within 48 hours at Shimansky’s V&A Waterfront showroom or can be delivered free of cost nationwide.

Two Oceans Cape Town Ring crafted in silver and 14K yellow gold. Click here to shop.

There’s something about the Two Oceans Marathon that stays with you. Maybe it’s the coastline. Maybe it’s the mountain light. Maybe it’s just that feeling of showing up, of not knowing if you could — until you did.

Whether you’re running it, cheering beside it or remembering it long after, you’re part of the story. Carry that with you.

And if you want to wear it too, you know where to find it.