CARLEEN TOBIAS
They say the best way to start your morning is with a good cup of coffee, but in Nelson Mandela Bay, it seems we’ve decided to earn it first.
A few weeks ago, I laced up for my very first coffee run at The Vintage Coffee Co., and let’s just say: I get it now. Picture this; the aroma of freshly brewed espresso, the buzz of pre-run chatter, and the soft hum of sneakers hitting the pavement. You could choose between a 3km or 5km route, and whether you run, jog, or power-walk while chatting to a friend, no one’s judging. (Especially not when there’s a flat white waiting for you at the finish line.)
There’s something magnetic about the running community in PE; it’s full of energy, encouragement, and the kind of people who cheer for strangers mid-run like you’ve just crossed the Olympic finish line. The vibe? Pure endorphins and oat milk foam.
And the best part? You don’t have to be a marathoner to join in. Coffee runs are popping up all over NMB, from beachfront jogs to suburban strolls, making it easy for anyone to find a route that fits their pace and their caffeine preference. Many of the local running clubs post their routes and times on social media, so whether it’s a weekend run or a midweek pick-me-up, there’s always somewhere to get moving (and sipping).
Maybe that’s why coffee runs have become the latest love affair in the Bay; they’re not about speed or distance, but connection. It’s the sweet spot between self-care and socialising, movement and mocha. Because sometimes, the best conversations and revelations happen somewhere between kilometre three… and your first sip.
Where to Find the Vibe
- Peasy Running Club – Weekly runs; check their page for locations and times.
- Sunday Track – Monthly track runs at the Nelson Mandela University track.
- Chasing Paces Run Club – An all-women’s club hosting weekly runs at the Little Walmer Golf Club every Monday at 17:30.
- 5 AM Running Club – Early risers meet every Saturday morning in Summerstrand.
- Dope Boys Run Club – Easy and long runs with their home base at Holiday Coffee Co; follow their page for the latest run updates.
- R.I.S.E Run Club – Runs from Grassroof on Sundays and Plato on Thursday mornings; check their socials for the latest schedule and updates.
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