Things To Do
in Margate
Margate is a picturesque coastal town situated on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast of South Africa, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. It is a popular holiday destination, particularly among families and beachgoers, offering a range of recreational activities. The town boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a welcoming community and a variety of local attractions.
Margate's warm weather and beautiful scenery make it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Margate Main Beach, followed by a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café.
Visit the Margate Art Museum to appreciate local art, then take a stroll through the shops in the town center.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant, and enjoy the sunset at the beach while sipping on a cocktail.
Go for a hike at the nearby Mpenjati Nature Reserve, exploring the diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy a packed lunch at the reserve, then head back to Margate for a visit to the South Coast Mall for shopping.
Experience the nightlife by visiting a local pub or bar with live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a restaurant | $10 |
| 🛍️Local crafts | $5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $5 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic views.
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Wide variety of outdoor activities.
- Can be crowded during peak holiday seasons.
- Limited public transport options.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities.
- "Sawbona" - Hello
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Uphi?" - Where are you?
- "Ngiyavuma" - I agree
- "Hamba kahle" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Margate
Visit one of these nice places.
The golden sands and azure waters of Margate Main Beach provide a stunning backdrop for beach photography.
This reserve offers beautiful landscapes and wildlife, perfect for capturing nature and scenic shots.
The pier is a great spot for sunset photography, with panoramic views of the coastline.
Food in Margate
Margate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, a popular street food originating from Indian cuisine.
Must-Try!
South African barbecue featuring a variety of meats, often served with pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (spicy relish).
A selection of fresh local seafood such as prawns, calamari, and fish, often grilled or fried.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and street food, perfect for sampling regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake and eye contact are common when greeting someone; South Africans are generally warm and welcoming.
Take the time to learn about local customs and traditions, especially when visiting rural areas.
Being a bit late is often acceptable, but it’s polite to inform your host if you’ll be delayed.
Safety
Tipping in Margate
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10-15% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included. It's also common to tip taxi drivers and guides.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and vibrant beach activity, perfect for swimming and outdoor events.
Milder weather with fewer crowds, making it ideal for peaceful beach walks and nature hikes.
Cooler temperatures but still pleasant, with opportunities for whale watching along the coast.
A beautiful time for blooming flowers and wildlife, with warm days suitable for outdoor exploration.
Margate at Night
Hiking in Margate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This trail offers scenic views of the coastal forest and estuary, making it ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
A more challenging hike with stunning views of the river valley and surrounding hills, suitable for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Margate by plane.
Located just 3 km from Margate, this small airport offers domestic flights mainly to Johannesburg and is convenient for travelers heading to the South Coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Zulu people, one of South Africa's largest ethnic groups, have a significant presence in the area, contributing to the region's cultural richness.
Margate attracts a diverse range of tourists, particularly from other parts of South Africa, drawn by its beaches and holiday atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in South Africa, and local teams often play matches that attract enthusiastic crowds.
Soccer is widely followed, with local clubs engaging in regional competitions, bringing communities together.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Margate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Margate offer vegetarian dishes, including salads, pasta, and local plant-based meals.
There are gluten-free options available at many eateries, but it's advisable to check with the staff.