Top 10 Things to Do in Margate
Explore the Best of the KZN South Coast
Margate is one of the most iconic destinations on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Loved for its warm Indian Ocean, golden beaches, lively holiday atmosphere, and relaxed coastal lifestyle, it has remained a favourite getaway for generations of South Africans. As more travellers return to the South Coast, Margate stands out once again as a destination that offers a little something for everyone: families, adventure seekers, couples, retirees, and weekend explorers.
This guide highlights the top 10 things to do in Margate, focusing on the experiences that define the town’s charm, character, and coastal magic. If you are planning a trip to the South Coast, these activities will give you the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, culture, and shopping.
1. Enjoy a Classic Beach Day at Margate Main Beach
Margate Main Beach is the heart of the town and the place most travellers picture when they think of a South Coast holiday. The beach is wide, sandy, and beautifully maintained, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. With warm water year-round, it is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family days under the umbrella.
During peak seasons, the beach is monitored by experienced lifeguards, adding to its appeal for parents with young children. The promenade behind the beach offers cafés, small shops, ice-cream stalls, and shaded seating areas. Whether you are looking to swim, relax, enjoy a walk, or simply people-watch, Margate Main Beach remains one of the best things to do on the South Coast.
The town’s beachfront atmosphere truly captures the nostalgic holiday feeling that Margate is known for.
2. Explore the Margate Art Museum
For travellers who appreciate creativity, culture, and visual storytelling, the Margate Art Museum offers a quiet and enriching escape from the busier beachfront. The museum showcases rotating exhibitions of local and national artists, including works from emerging talent on the South Coast.
It is one of the few dedicated art spaces in the province and plays an important role in preserving artistic heritage and encouraging new voices. The exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, with a mix of paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and community-led art projects.
A visit to the Margate Art Museum is a great way to experience a different side of the town and to engage with the cultural depth that often goes unnoticed. It is an ideal outing for couples, solo travellers, and anyone looking for a calmer morning or afternoon activity.
3. Visit the Uvongo Beach Waterfall
While technically just a few minutes outside Margate, Uvongo Beach is an unmissable stop for anyone staying in the area. It is often described as one of the prettiest beaches on the entire South Coast, thanks to its sheltered lagoon, natural waterfall, and tree-lined cliffs.
The waterfall flowing directly into the lagoon is one of the most photographed features along the coastline. Families love the beach for its calm swimming conditions, while couples enjoy its romantic, scenic beauty. The lagoon area is perfect for small children, as the shallow water provides a safe environment for paddling and play.
With picnic lawns, viewing spots, and plenty of space for beach activities, Uvongo Beach offers a more peaceful alternative to Margate’s busier main beach.
4. Shop at Hibiscus Mall in Margate
Convenience is a big part of any beach holiday, and Hibiscus Mall offers everything you need within one relaxed, compact shopping experience. Located right in Margate, the mall includes grocery stores, pharmacies, clothing retailers, footwear shops, takeaways, and essential service stores.
It is ideal for stocking up on supplies, grabbing beach gear, buying last-minute holiday items, or enjoying a casual meal. Holidaymakers staying in self-catering accommodation often find themselves visiting the mall several times during their stay.
Hibiscus Mall is not flashy or oversized, and that’s exactly why visitors appreciate it. It offers ease, fast shopping, and a stress-free environment — qualities that fit perfectly with the casual, laid-back nature of Margate.
5. Spend Time at Shelly Centre and Southcoast Mall
Just a 10-minute drive from Margate, the larger malls in Shelly Beach offer expanded shopping, entertainment, and dining options. Many travellers consider these malls essential stops during their holiday, especially when looking for variety or planning a rainy-day outing.
Shelly Centre is known for its cinemas, fashion outlets, surf shops, bookstores, lifestyle stores, restaurants, and convenient parking. Southcoast Mall offers an even wider selection of retailers, with home décor outlets, clothing stores, electronics, outdoor gear, and more.
Together, these malls provide an opportunity to take a break from the beach and enjoy a leisurely day indoors. They are particularly popular with families, as the range of shops and entertainment ensures that everyone can find something enjoyable.
6. Browse Local Markets and Craft Stalls
One of the most authentic ways to experience Margate is through its market stalls, seaside vendors, and small craft shops. These little gems give visitors a chance to support local creators while picking up handmade items, coastal décor, souvenirs, jewellery, beadwork, artwork, and unique gifts.
During holiday periods, the beachfront often hosts seasonal markets with food stalls, clothing, accessories, and kid-friendly entertainment. In neighbouring areas like Ramsgate and Uvongo, additional market spaces often pop up, especially over weekends.
For those who value meaningful travel and local craftsmanship, Margate’s market scene offers a memorable experience filled with character and creativity.
7. Enjoy Lagoon Activities and Water Fun
The lagoon areas around Margate and Uvongo are popular for their calm, sheltered waters. Comfortable for children and enjoyable for adults, these lagoons offer a variety of simple but fun activities. Visitors can rent paddle boats, explore the gentle currents, or paddle on a board if conditions allow.
Young children especially enjoy splashing around in the shallow areas while parents relax under the shade or on the lawns nearby. The mix of ocean and lagoon experiences gives Margate an added layer of versatility, making it a favourite for families who want to balance adventure with safety.
8. Experience the Promenade and Seasonal Night Markets
Margate’s promenade has long been part of its charm, and during peak holiday periods it becomes even more vibrant. Seasonal night markets bring food stalls, crafts, music, and a festive atmosphere to the beachfront. These markets attract both locals and visitors, creating a lively community feel that makes summer holidays on the South Coast unforgettable.
Walking the promenade at sunset is a simple but enjoyable activity. The ocean views, warm breeze, and friendly atmosphere capture the essence of Margate’s coastal lifestyle.
9. Explore Butterfly Valley and Pure Venom (Short Drive)
While located just outside Margate, Butterfly Valley and Pure Venom remain two of the most popular family attractions in the wider area. Butterfly Valley specialises in breeding indigenous butterflies and offers an educational, interactive experience suitable for all ages. Pure Venom, one of the largest reptile parks in the province, provides an exciting look at snakes, reptiles, and small animals.
Both attractions are perfect for families wanting to add an educational component to their holiday or for visitors looking for something different from typical beach activities. Their proximity to Margate makes them convenient half-day trips.
10. Enjoy Amazing Coastal Dining
Margate offers a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, takeaways, and beachfront eateries. From casual cafés overlooking the ocean to pubs, family-friendly restaurants, seafood spots, and coffee shops, there is no shortage of dining options.
Meals taste better with sea air, and Margate delivers exactly that — relaxed, scenic dining experiences that complement the coastal atmosphere. Whether you are grabbing breakfast after an early-morning swim, enjoying a long lunch on the promenade, or having dinner with ocean views, the town has options for every taste and budget.
Final Thoughts
Margate remains one of the most versatile and enjoyable destinations on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. With its mix of beaches, shopping, culture, dining, and family-friendly attractions, it offers visitors a complete and memorable coastal holiday experience. Whether you are a first-time traveller or a returning holidaymaker, the town continues to deliver warmth, relaxation, and a sense of nostalgia that keeps people coming back year after year.
