Margate Airport
When planning your next South Coast holiday, convenience and accessibility make all the difference. While King Shaka International Airport serves as the province’s primary entry point, Margate Airport is the South Coast’s own aviation hub — a smaller yet vital gateway that keeps the region connected.
Located in the charming coastal town of Margate, this airport provides fast, affordable access to the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, serving both locals and visitors who want to skip the long drive from Durban and head straight to the beach.
Whether you’re flying in for business, visiting family, or exploring the region’s incredible coastline, Margate Airport is the most direct way to reach one of South Africa’s best beach destinations.
A Brief History of Margate Airport
Margate Airport has been serving the lower South Coast for decades, originally developed to support tourism and local economic growth. As coastal towns like Margate, Uvongo, Ramsgate, and Shelly Beach became popular seaside escapes, the need for a reliable regional airlink grew.
The airport evolved into a key connector for KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal communities, offering scheduled passenger flights, private charters, and air-taxi services. Its manageable size and friendly atmosphere have made it a favourite among travellers seeking a smoother, stress-free alternative to large international airports.
Location and Accessibility
Margate Airport lies just outside the town centre, less than five minutes’ drive from Margate Beach, one of the South Coast’s most famous blue-flag beaches. The location makes arrival and transfer simple — within minutes of landing, you could be checking into your accommodation, dipping your toes in the warm Indian Ocean, or sitting down for lunch with a sea view.
Distances from Margate Airport
- Margate Beach – 2 km
- Ramsgate – 5 km
- Uvongo – 8 km
- Shelly Beach – 10 km
- Port Shepstone – 20 km
- Oribi Gorge – 40 km
With the N2 highway nearby, travellers can easily explore both directions of the coastline — heading north to Hibberdene and Durban, or south to Port Edward and the Wild Coast.
Airlines and Flight Connections
Margate Airport is currently served by CemAir, a South African regional airline operating daily flights between Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) and Margate. This connection makes the South Coast directly accessible to travellers from Gauteng, one of the province’s largest tourist markets.
Flight Facts
- Route: Johannesburg → Margate → Johannesburg
- Flight time: Approximately 90 minutes
- Aircraft type: Typically a 29-seat Beech 1900D or similar
- Booking: Available through CemAir’s official website or local travel agents
For international visitors arriving at King Shaka International Airport, a connecting flight via Johannesburg to Margate offers a seamless route directly into the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
Facilities and Services
Though small, Margate Airport provides all essential amenities for a comfortable travel experience.
Airport Facilities
- Terminal building: Clean, secure, and easy to navigate.
- Car hire & transfers: Several local rental and shuttle companies operate directly from the terminal.
- Free parking: Convenient short- and long-term options for passengers.
- Passenger lounge: Comfortable waiting areas and rest facilities.
- Café & vending: Light snacks, coffee, and refreshments before or after your flight.
- Information desk: Friendly staff to assist with flight or tourism enquiries.
Unlike major airports, there are no long queues or confusing gates — passengers appreciate the quick check-in process and personal service typical of regional aviation.
Why Margate Airport Matters for South Coast Tourism
Margate Airport plays a central role in promoting and sustaining South Coast tourism. For many visitors, the ease of flying directly into the region removes one of the biggest travel barriers: distance.
This airport not only saves time for holidaymakers but also strengthens the local economy by supporting small businesses, accommodation providers, tour operators, and restaurants across the South Coast.
Benefits to the Region
- Boosting local tourism – Direct access attracts weekend travellers and short-stay visitors.
- Business connectivity – Improves communication and transport for regional enterprises.
- Community convenience – Offers quick access to major cities without lengthy drives.
- Sustainability – Reduces road congestion and travel fatigue for frequent travellers.
With growing demand, future upgrades to the airport are expected to enhance capacity and service quality, ensuring Margate remains a viable regional hub.
The Experience: Flying into the Coast
Landing at Margate Airport offers a unique view of the South African coastline — sweeping beaches, lush green landscapes, and the shimmering Indian Ocean stretching to the horizon.
Passengers often describe the descent into Margate as one of the most scenic flight approaches in the country. The moment the aircraft touches down, the tropical climate and relaxed coastal atmosphere instantly signal that your holiday has begun.
Within minutes, travellers can transfer to nearby accommodation or explore the local attractions, including Ramsgate Lagoon, Shelly Centre, and the Margate Pier, a popular sunrise and fishing spot.
Exploring from Margate: The South Coast Awaits
From your base in Margate, the rest of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast opens up with ease. Whether you’re chasing surf, sunshine, or serenity, the options are endless.
Top Experiences Near Margate
- Blue Flag Beaches: Margate, Ramsgate, and Marina Beach are among South Africa’s cleanest and safest swimming spots.
- Diving & Snorkelling: Explore Protea Banks, one of the world’s top shark-diving destinations.
- Adventure at Oribi Gorge: Hike, zipline, or take on the legendary gorge swing.
- Golf & Resorts: Tee off at top coastal courses like San Lameer or Southbroom.
- Cultural Markets: Browse local crafts, art, and cuisine at the Uvongo Flea Market.
With so many attractions within easy reach, Margate Airport provides the perfect base for an unforgettable coastal escape.
Linking with King Shaka International and Beyond
While Margate Airport serves the lower coast, King Shaka International Airport near Durban remains KwaZulu-Natal’s major aviation gateway. Many travellers choose to combine both airports in their travel plans: arriving at King Shaka, exploring Durban or the North Coast, then continuing south by road — and departing from Margate for convenience.
This combination highlights how air travel can enhance regional tourism by giving visitors flexible ways to experience more of KwaZulu-Natal’s diverse coastline.
North and South: Connecting the Coasts
For those exploring both ends of the province, North Coast Explore and South Coast Explore together offer a full picture of coastal life in KwaZulu-Natal.
From Ballito’s boutique beaches on the North Coast to the laid-back surf culture of Uvongo and Port Shepstone on the South Coast, travellers can experience two distinct coastal personalities — linked by excellent road networks and convenient air connections.
Whether you’re landing at King Shaka or Margate, the message is the same: the KwaZulu-Natal coast is ready to explore.
Future Development and Sustainability
Local authorities and tourism bodies continue to invest in Margate Airport to ensure its long-term growth and safety standards. Upgrades to runway infrastructure, lighting, and navigation systems aim to improve reliability and increase capacity for both commercial and charter services.
There’s also a focus on integrating the airport into the South Coast’s sustainable tourism strategy — supporting eco-friendly travel, renewable-energy initiatives, and community engagement projects that benefit the surrounding towns.
As the South Coast continues to grow as a top travel destination, Margate Airport’s role as a reliable regional connector becomes even more important.
Planning Your Trip: Tips for Travellers
- Book Early: Seats on the Johannesburg–Margate route are limited, so plan ahead during peak seasons.
- Check Transfers: Arrange your accommodation pickup or car hire before arrival.
- Pack Smart: Coastal weather can change quickly; bring light clothing, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
- Stay Local: Choose accommodation within a few kilometres of the airport to maximise your beach time.
- Explore Widely: Use Margate as your base to discover the broader South Coast — from Pennington to Port Edward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where is Margate Airport located?
Margate Airport is situated just outside the town of Margate on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, approximately 160 km south of Durban.
2. Which airline flies to Margate?
CemAir currently operates regular flights between Johannesburg (OR Tambo) and Margate Airport.
3. How long is the flight from Johannesburg to Margate?
Flight time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, offering a fast and scenic alternative to a six-hour drive.
4. Can international travellers reach Margate Airport?
Yes. International visitors can connect via Johannesburg or King Shaka International Airport to reach Margate with a short domestic flight.
5. Are there car-rental services at the airport?
Yes. Several local companies provide car-rental and shuttle services directly from the terminal.
6. Is Margate Airport family-friendly?
Absolutely. The airport offers safe parking, a relaxed environment, and short walking distances ideal for families with children.
7. What are the nearest attractions to Margate Airport?
Within 10 minutes you can reach Margate Beach, Ramsgate Lagoon, Shelly Centre, and several Blue Flag swimming beaches.
8. Is Margate Airport open daily?
Yes. The airport operates seven days a week, although flight schedules depend on the airline’s timetable.
9. Why is Margate Airport important to South Coast tourism?
It provides the most direct access to the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, supporting tourism, local employment, and regional development.
10. Can I fly from Margate to other South African destinations?
Currently, scheduled flights focus on the Johannesburg route, but private charter services can be arranged to other cities.
In Summary
Margate Airport is far more than a regional airstrip — it’s the heart of travel on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Compact, convenient, and welcoming, it connects travellers directly with the beaches, resorts, and attractions that make this province one of South Africa’s top holiday destinations.
From the moment you land, you’re just minutes from palm-lined shores, world-class diving, and unforgettable South Coast hospitality. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or a full-length holiday, flying into Margate means starting your coastal escape the easy way.
Would you like me to follow this up with a shorter (600-word) companion blog titled “Johannesburg to Margate – The Fastest Way to Reach the South Coast” for internal linking and SEO reinforcement?
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