Margate is a sun-drenched coastal resort famous for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. Bask on golden sand beaches and visit family-friendly attractions like a butterfly farm and crocodile breeding centre. Wrap up your day with sunset cocktails and a night of bar-hopping.
Things to do in Margate
Palm trees line the honey-coloured sand of Margate Beach. Swim in the shark net or cool off in the saltwater tidal pool. The breezy boardwalk is dotted with hawkers selling everything from fresh fruit and roasted nuts to handmade jewellery and colourful art.
Be amazed by clouds of rainbow-coloured insects at Ramsgate Butterfly Valley. The farm specialises in South African species and runs a fantastic butterfly breeding program. Walk around the enormous indoor flight dome and see bright-orange African Monarchs, resplendent blue Garden Commodores, camouflaged Citrus Swallowtails and transparent Acraeas.
Come face-to-face with enormous reptiles at the Riverbend Crocodile Farm. The wildlife centre is home to hundreds of Nile crocodiles, ranging from newborn hatchlings to full-grown adults. Feeding time is incredible and sees the crocodiles demolish enormous chunks of chicken and beef. On the same property is the Riverbend Art and Wine Gallery. Sample wine from local estates and admire works by South African artists like Nils Anderson and Isabel Le Roux.
Home to more than 250 species, Umtamvuna Nature Reserve offers some of the best birdwatching opportunities in KwaZulu-Natal. See a thriving colony of endangered Cape vultures and spot rare species like the southern ground hornbill and African grass owl. The reserve is set on the Umtamvuna River and protects a patchwork of habitats, including rocky cliffs, grassy plains and wildflower-strewn forests. If you’re lucky, you can spot mammals like white-throated monkeys and leopards.
Getting around Margate
Margate is on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, a 1.5-hour drive from Durban. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Margate and explore local sights and attractions at your own pace. King Shaka International Airport is a two-hour drive away.