Things To Do
in Margate
Margate, Florida is a suburban coastal city in Broward County, just north of Pompano Beach. It has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe and easy access to Atlantic beaches, parks, and shopping. The city is anchored by residential neighborhoods with a growing dining and recreation scene, while being close to the cultural energy of Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton.
Expect sunny days, warm water, and a laid-back Florida atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activity opportunities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Margate Historical Society, where you can dive into the rich history of the area through fascinating exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down the charming streets lined with quaint shops and local cafes, grabbing a coffee and pastry to fuel your morning. Don’t miss the iconic Margate City Community Center, where local events often take place.
Visit the nearby local markets to explore fresh produce and artisanal goods, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere as you chat with friendly vendors. After lunch, head to the Margate Lighthouse, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Spend some time at the beach, relaxing on the sand or taking a refreshing dip in the ocean.
As the sun sets, make your way to a seaside restaurant for a delicious dinner of fresh seafood while enjoying the ocean breeze. After dinner, take a walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local bar for some live music, where you can enjoy the lively local scene.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoying the view of the waves lapping at the shore. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene waters around Margate, keeping an eye out for local wildlife. The morning sun creates the perfect conditions for a fun water adventure.
After your morning on the water, take a break for lunch at a nearby seafood shack known for its fresh catch of the day. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun on the beach, building sandcastles or playing beach volleyball with friends. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for a surfing lesson to catch some waves.
As the day winds down, grab a beachside drink while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, sampling some classic American fare. After dinner, join a beach bonfire if available, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🏡1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,800-2,400/mo |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to multiple beaches and parks
- Relaxed, family-friendly vibe
- Strong dining options and fresh seafood
- Access to Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach activities
- Limited nightlife within Margate itself
- Traffic can be heavy in peak times
- Some areas require a car for getting around
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
Places to Visit in Margate
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic ocean views and a long wooden pier ideal for sunrise and long exposure shots of the Atlantic.
Wooden boardwalk through marshland offering wildlife photography opportunities and scenic water channels.
Wide sandy shoreline and skyline views for sunset photography along the coast.
Quieter nature spot with wetlands and trails suitable for birds and landscape photography.
Food in Margate
Margate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Cuban sandwich featuring roast pork, ham, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread, widely available at local delis and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Sweet, meaty crab claws served with mustard sauce at seafood shacks and markets.
Fresh Florida mahi-mahi seasoned and grilled, commonly served with citrus and side vegetables.
Bright, tart Florida dessert made with Key lime, often served with whipped cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market offering local produce, prepared foods, and street bites with ocean views nearby.
Seasonal neighborhood markets with fresh produce and tasty local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Casual coastal attire is standard; shorts and sandals are common, especially near the beach.
Wait your turn in lines, greet staff with a friendly hello, and avoid loud, disruptive behavior in residential areas.
Tipping is customary for service workers; rewards for good service are standard.
Safety
Tipping in Margate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; tip housekeeping in hotels if service was good.
Credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payments are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets or smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; thin crowds at beaches early in the morning and late afternoon are ideal for photography.
Warm days with lower humidity and a pleasant breeze; hurricane season remains possible but less intense than peak summer.
Mild temperatures in the 60s-70s F, great for outdoor activities and beach visits; occasional cool evenings.
Warm and sunny with refreshing sea breezes; typical afternoon showers possible.
Margate at Night
Hiking in Margate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetland trails and boardwalks north of Margate with bird-watching opportunities.
Wooded nature preserve with easy trails near Coconut Creek.
Hollywood nature preserve with trails and a boardwalk along the intracoastal.
Airports
How to reach Margate by plane.
A major international airport about 20-25 miles from Margate with frequent domestic and international flights.
A large hub about 30-40 miles from Margate, primarily serving international and domestic routes.
A smaller hub about 60-70 miles from Margate, serving regional and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Margate and nearby suburbs with a mix of age groups.
A sizable portion of residents are retirees seeking a coastal lifestyle.
A diverse mix contributes to bilingual signage, cuisine, and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
There is a strong local culture of fishing and boating along the coast and intercoastal waterways.
Several golf courses in Broward and nearby Palm Beach County.
Common community and school sports in local facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Margate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find veggie options at most seafood and casual spots; look for salads, veggie entrees, and sides like plantains, rice, beans, and grilled vegetables.