Top 10 Things to Do in Margate, KwaZulu-Natal

Discover the best beaches, family attractions, wildlife experiences and outdoor adventures in and around Margate on the KZN South Coast.

Margate has been one of South Africa’s favourite seaside holiday destinations for generations. Situated along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, this lively coastal town combines beautiful Indian Ocean beaches with family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures and easy access to some of the region’s most memorable experiences.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a December holiday or a longer family vacation, there are plenty of things to do in Margate beyond spending the day on the beach.

From exploring a waterfall beside the ocean to discovering indigenous butterflies, visiting crocodile farms and walking through coastal nature reserves, Margate is an excellent base for exploring the South Coast.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Margate, KZN, including attractions in the town itself and worthwhile experiences just a short drive away.

1. Spend a Day at Margate Main Beach

Margate Main Beach is one of the town’s most recognisable attractions and an essential stop for first-time visitors. With its sandy shoreline, warm subtropical climate and lively beachfront atmosphere, it has been at the centre of South Coast holidays for decades.

The beach is particularly popular during the summer holiday season, when families gather along the shoreline to swim, relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. Its convenient location also means visitors can combine a morning at the beach with lunch at a nearby restaurant or a walk through the town.

Early mornings are especially rewarding. The beachfront is generally quieter, the temperatures are more comfortable, and the rising sun over the Indian Ocean creates excellent opportunities for photography.

Visitor tip: Swim only in designated areas when lifeguards are on duty. Check the latest beach and water-quality advisories before entering the sea, particularly after heavy rainfall.

2. Visit Margate Pier for Ocean Views and Fishing

Margate Pier is a familiar landmark along the beachfront and a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, photographers and visitors who enjoy spending time beside the ocean.

Extending out from the coastline, the pier offers a different perspective of Margate Beach and the surrounding shoreline. It is a particularly appealing place to watch the waves, observe local fishing activity and appreciate the coastal scenery.

For anglers, the pier provides an opportunity to enjoy recreational sea fishing, subject to local access rules, weather conditions and the relevant fishing permits. Even if fishing is not on your holiday itinerary, the area is worth visiting for its views.

Combine a visit to the pier with a beachfront walk and breakfast at one of Margate’s nearby cafés.

Visitor tip: Early morning offers beautiful light for photographs. Avoid the pier during rough seas or dangerous weather, and observe any temporary access restrictions.

3. Discover the Waterfall at Uvongo Beach

One of the most scenic natural attractions near Margate is Uvongo Beach, famous for its waterfall that cascades into a lagoon surrounded by steep, vegetation-covered cliffs.

Located a short drive north of Margate, Uvongo offers an impressive combination of river, lagoon, waterfall and ocean scenery. The natural setting makes it especially attractive to photographers, families and visitors looking for a quieter coastal experience.

The beach itself is relatively sheltered, while the surrounding viewpoints offer opportunities to admire the waterfall and lagoon from different angles. The nearby lawns and coastal surroundings also make Uvongo a pleasant destination for a relaxed morning outing.

Although Uvongo is close to Margate, its distinctive landscape makes it feel like a separate attraction rather than simply another beach.

Visitor tip: Visit after suitable rainfall if you hope to see a stronger waterfall flow. Water levels and swimming conditions vary, so follow local safety advice.

4. Explore Butterfly Valley in Ramsgate

For a family-friendly attraction that offers something different from the beach, Butterfly Valley in nearby Ramsgate is well worth considering.

This butterfly farm focuses on indigenous South African butterfly species and introduces visitors to their fascinating life cycles. The experience includes educational information about butterflies, their breeding stages and their importance within the natural environment.

One of the main highlights is the enclosed butterfly flight area, where visitors can observe butterflies at close range. The attraction provides an opportunity to appreciate the intricate colours, patterns and behaviour of these delicate insects.

Butterfly Valley is particularly suitable for families with children, nature enthusiasts and visitors interested in photography or environmental education.

Unlike a typical beach outing, the experience encourages visitors to slow down, observe the natural world and learn something new.

Visitor tip: Butterflies are generally more active in warm, bright conditions. Check opening times and tour arrangements before travelling.

5. Visit Riverbend Crocodile Farm in Southbroom

A short drive south of Margate brings visitors to Riverbend Crocodile Farm, one of the South Coast’s established wildlife attractions.

Located near Southbroom, Riverbend offers visitors an opportunity to observe crocodiles and learn more about these remarkable reptiles. The attraction is particularly popular with families looking for an educational experience that combines wildlife viewing with an enjoyable day out.

Crocodiles are among Africa’s most fascinating predators, and seeing them at close range provides a memorable introduction to their size, behaviour and biology.

Riverbend also has additional visitor facilities, making it possible to combine the wildlife experience with refreshments and a more relaxed outing.

For children, the visit can be both exciting and educational, especially when guided presentations or demonstrations are available.

Visitor tip: Contact the attraction before your visit to confirm demonstration schedules, admission prices and operating hours.

6. Enjoy Nature and Birdwatching at River Valley Nature Reserve

Margate is not only about beaches and coastal entertainment. Visitors interested in nature can explore River Valley Nature Reserve, situated inland from the town.

The reserve offers a peaceful alternative to the busy beachfront, with natural vegetation, walking opportunities and an environment that attracts a variety of birds and smaller wildlife.

It is an appealing destination for visitors who enjoy spending time outdoors without travelling far from their holiday accommodation. The quieter surroundings also make it suitable for nature photography and relaxed exploration.

Walking through a natural area provides a different perspective of the South Coast, revealing the landscapes and biodiversity that exist beyond the beaches.

For families, the reserve can be an opportunity to introduce children to local plants, birds and the importance of conserving natural habitats.

Visitor tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry drinking water and check current access arrangements before visiting.

7. Experience Pure Venom Reptile Park

For visitors fascinated by reptiles, Pure Venom Reptile Park near Shelly Beach offers an educational wildlife experience within easy reach of Margate.

The attraction is known for its collection of snakes and other reptiles, providing opportunities to learn about species that many people rarely encounter in everyday life.

A visit can help visitors understand the role reptiles play in natural ecosystems and why conservation and responsible interaction with wildlife are important.

The experience is particularly interesting for older children, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone curious about South Africa’s diverse reptile species.

It also provides an alternative activity when visitors want a break from the beach.

Visitor tip: Check current admission details and any scheduled educational presentations before visiting. Always follow staff instructions around animals.

8. Explore St Michael’s on Sea Beach

St Michael’s on Sea is another attractive coastal destination a short drive north of Margate.

The beach is known for its scenic setting near the river mouth, with sandy shores and a coastal landscape that attracts swimmers, surfers and families.

It is a good choice for visitors who want to explore another part of the coastline while remaining close to Margate. The combination of ocean views and river scenery creates a pleasant environment for a relaxed outing.

Surfing and bodyboarding are popular in the wider area when conditions are suitable, while the beachfront provides space for walking, relaxing and enjoying the sunshine.

St Michael’s also works well as part of a beach-hopping itinerary that includes Margate and Uvongo.

Visitor tip: Ocean conditions can change quickly. Swim in designated areas under lifeguard supervision and never assume that river or lagoon water is safe for swimming.

9. Discover the Coastal Forest at Skyline Nature Reserve

Skyline Nature Reserve, located in the Uvongo area near Margate, offers visitors a chance to experience the South Coast’s natural vegetation away from the shoreline.

The reserve is known for its trees, birdlife and peaceful environment, making it an appealing stop for nature lovers and visitors interested in indigenous plant species.

A walk through the reserve can provide welcome shade and a quieter atmosphere, particularly during the warmer months.

It is also an opportunity to appreciate the contrast between the region’s coastal beaches and its inland vegetation.

Although less famous than Margate’s beaches, Skyline represents the kind of smaller natural attraction that can make a South Coast holiday more varied and rewarding.

Visitor tip: Confirm that the reserve is accessible and that its walking paths are maintained before planning a visit.

10. Enjoy a Coastal Meal in Margate or Ramsgate

After exploring Margate’s beaches and attractions, one of the most enjoyable ways to end the day is with a relaxed meal along the coast.

Margate and neighbouring Ramsgate offer a variety of dining experiences, from casual cafés and family restaurants to seafood establishments and places serving traditional South African favourites.

Breakfast after an early beach walk, lunch following a family outing or dinner after a day of sightseeing can become part of the holiday experience.

Ramsgate is particularly appealing for visitors who enjoy combining coastal scenery with a leisurely meal, while Margate’s central beachfront makes it convenient to find refreshments between activities.

Choosing locally owned restaurants also helps support the businesses that contribute to the South Coast’s tourism economy.

Visitor tip: During school holidays and long weekends, popular restaurants can become busy. Check operating hours and make reservations where necessary.

Planning Your Margate Holiday

One of the advantages of staying in Margate is its location. The town provides a convenient base for exploring nearby coastal destinations without needing to travel long distances each day.

Visitors can spend a morning at Margate Beach, explore Uvongo in the afternoon and plan separate outings to Ramsgate, Southbroom or nearby nature attractions.

For families, combining beach activities with educational wildlife experiences can create a balanced holiday itinerary. Couples may prefer scenic walks, coastal dining and quieter beaches, while outdoor enthusiasts can focus on nature reserves, fishing and water activities.

The South Coast’s warm climate makes Margate appealing throughout much of the year, although rainfall, sea conditions and seasonal visitor numbers can influence which activities are most enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Margate

What are the best things to do in Margate, KZN?

Popular activities include visiting Margate Main Beach, exploring Margate Pier, seeing the waterfall at Uvongo Beach, visiting Butterfly Valley and exploring nearby wildlife attractions such as Riverbend Crocodile Farm.

Is Margate a good destination for families?

Yes. Margate offers beaches, family attractions, nature experiences and nearby educational wildlife parks. Families should always check swimming conditions, lifeguard availability and attraction opening times.

What can you do in Margate when it rains?

Consider indoor shopping and dining, or educational attractions with sheltered facilities. Butterfly Valley and reptile attractions may also be options, although some experiences are weather-dependent.

Are there things to do near Margate besides the beach?

Yes. Nearby attractions include River Valley Nature Reserve, Butterfly Valley, Riverbend Crocodile Farm, Pure Venom Reptile Park and Skyline Nature Reserve.

When is the best time to visit Margate?

Margate is a year-round coastal destination. Summer is popular for beach holidays and family travel, while quieter periods outside school holidays can be appealing for visitors who prefer fewer crowds.

Discover More of the KZN South Coast

Margate remains one of the most recognisable holiday destinations on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, offering much more than a traditional seaside getaway.

Its beaches, nearby wildlife attractions, natural scenery and relaxed coastal lifestyle provide plenty of opportunities to explore, whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer holiday.

By combining well-known attractions with quieter natural spaces, visitors can discover a more complete picture of what makes this part of South Africa so appealing.

South Coast Explore helps visitors discover the region’s beaches, accommodation, restaurants, attractions and travel experiences. Continue exploring our local destination guides to plan your next South Coast adventure.