Things To Do
in Margate
Margate is a beautiful coastal town located in the Kwazulu-Natal province of South Africa. It is known for its stunning beaches with golden sands and clear blue waters, making it a popular destination for tourists. The town offers a range of water sports activities such as surfing and snorkeling, as well as vibrant nightlife and a variety of restaurants and shops.
With its warm climate and friendly atmosphere, Margate is a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure by the sea.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll along Margate Beach, enjoying the warm sun and gentle waves. Grab a coffee from a local café and soak in the beautiful ocean views.
Head to the nearby Lucien Beach for swimming and sunbathing, or try your hand at paddleboarding. Enjoy a casual lunch at a beachfront restaurant overlooking the sea.
As the sun sets, take a walk along the promenade and visit local shops. Have dinner at a seafood restaurant, tasting the fresh catch of the day.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, where you can witness breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.
After your hike, spend some time at the Wild 5 Adventures for thrilling activities like bungee swinging or river rafting. Experience the adrenaline rush and the stunning scenery of the area.
Return to Margate and unwind with a meal at a local steakhouse. Share stories of your adventures as you enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with warm climate, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a getaway from busy city life.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in South Africa.
- Close proximity to nature reserves and scenic landscapes for outdoor activities.
- A variety of local restaurants and cafes offering South African cuisine.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services.
- Potential for crime, as in many areas of South Africa.
- Less entertainment and nightlife options than larger urban centers.
- Seasonal tourism may lead to fluctuations in local business viability.
- Infrastructure and public transport may not be as developed as in major cities.
Best Activities in Margate
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches of Margate and search for seashells, driftwood, and other treasures washed up by the sea.
Discover the underwater world by snorkeling in the clear waters around Margate, where you can see colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
Enjoy the waves and catch some surf at the renowned surfing spots near Margate, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Embark on scenic coastal hikes and explore the breathtaking landscapes and viewpoints in and around Margate, offering stunning ocean vistas.
Tours
Uncover the best of Margate with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Margate
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, ideal for capturing beach and sunset photos
This restaurant has a deck that overlooks the beach and provides fantastic photo opportunities
Great spot for capturing photos of the coastline and ocean views
Food in Margate
Margate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular South African fast food consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Look for it at local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Known as South Africa's BBQ, this grilled meat dish is a must-try, often flavored with unique spices. Many local restaurants and beachfront grills serve excellent braaivleis.
A savory, spiced minced meat dish with an egg-based topping, offering a delectable fusion of flavors. Seek out this traditional dish at family-owned restaurants and local diners.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Margate better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Margate, this market offers an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls, providing visitors with an authentic taste of the region's culinary offerings.
For a true local experience, visit Marina Beach for an assortment of street food vendors offering everything from freshly grilled seafood to traditional South African snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Margate, it is important to greet people with a handshake and use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss when addressing someone, especially in formal situations.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Margate, South Africa. It is customary to show deference and avoid direct eye contact when speaking with older individuals.
Margate has a rich Zulu heritage, and it is essential to show respect for traditional customs and ceremonies. Visitors should be mindful of local traditions and participate with reverence when invited to do so.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Margate with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Margate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Margate, South Africa, especially in restaurants and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. A standard tip is generally around 10-15% of the total bill, but it is always appreciated to leave more for exceptional service.
In Margate, South Africa, payment methods commonly accepted include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. When using a credit/debit card, it is advisable to inform the establishment beforehand, as some smaller businesses may only accept cash. It is also important to note that some places may not accept international credit/debit cards, so it's always best to have cash on hand as a backup.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Margate.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for beach activities and water sports. High tourist season with warm, dry weather.
Milder temperatures and less crowded. Good for outdoor activities and exploring the area.
Cooler weather, less tourists. Ideal for whale watching and enjoying the local culture and cuisine.
Wildflowers in bloom, pleasant weather. Great for outdoor adventure and nature exploration.
Margate at Night
Hiking in Margate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal trail offering stunning views of the ocean and easy access to sandy beaches.
Features a variety of trails through coastal forest and wetlands, with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy natural beauty.
Offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Umtamvuna River and surrounding landscapes.
Known for its dramatic gorge views, it offers various trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
This area provides access to beautiful trails along the coastline and inland routes with breathtaking scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Margate through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Margate by plane.
Situated approximately 110 kilometers from Margate, this is the primary airport serving Durban with international and domestic flights.
Located around 750 kilometers from Margate, this airport serves Port Elizabeth and offers regional and domestic flights.
About 590 kilometers from Margate, this airport serves East London and mainly offers domestic flights.
Approximately 350 kilometers away from Margate, this airport serves George and offers domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Margate, representing a significant portion of the local population with diverse cultural backgrounds.
A mixed racial group with roots in various ethnic backgrounds, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
This group includes people of Indian and other Asian descents, involved in various local businesses and cultural activities.
A smaller demographic group, primarily of European descent, involved in different sectors of the local economy.
The Soul of Margate
Discover the essence of Margate through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Margate is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent surfing conditions, attracting both local and international surfers.
Soccer is a highly popular sport among the local communities, with various clubs and leagues active in the area.
Cricket has a strong following in Margate, with numerous playing fields and clubs that support the sport at different levels.
Rugby is also widely played and followed in Margate, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Given Margate's coastal location, it is a popular destination for both recreational and sport fishing, attracting enthusiasts year-round.
With its warm climate and inviting ocean, swimming is a popular recreational activity among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Margate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants in Margate provide a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, showcasing a range of fresh produce and innovative plant-based creations to cater to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that several restaurants and cafes in Margate offer gluten-free menu items, ensuring that they can indulge in the local cuisine without concern.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Margate with these cultural adventures.
