History
Margate was established as a holiday resort in the 1920s, modelled on the English seaside town of the same name. It grew steadily through the mid-20th century as rail and road access from Johannesburg improved, becoming one of South Africa's most visited holiday destinations by the 1970s and 1980s. The South Coast Hospice, the South Coast Herald, and the Margate Airport (now closed) all developed as Margate grew into a year-round resort town.
What Margate is Known For
Margate is known for its wide, safe swimming beach, the Marine Drive esplanade, and the buzzing holiday atmosphere. The Margate beachfront has a permanent funfair, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. The entire South Coast strip from Amanzimtoti to Port Shepstone — including Margate, Uvongo, and Ramsgate — is South Africa's most popular domestic beach holiday destination. The warm water (Agulhas Current) allows swimming year-round.
Key Areas & Neighbourhoods
Marine Drive is the main commercial strip, lined with restaurants, takeaways, holiday apartments, and surf shops. The beachfront precinct is the holiday heart of town. Uvongo, 3 km south, has a spectacular lagoon beach. Ramsgate, 5 km south, is quieter and upmarket. Residential areas behind the beachfront house a mix of permanent residents and holiday home owners. Shelly Beach and Hibberdene extend the resort strip south.
Economy & Industry
Tourism and hospitality dominate the economy. Holiday accommodation, restaurants, retail, and beach entertainment are the primary industries. The South Coast as a whole generates enormous tourism revenue, with Margate at its centre. Property development and management are significant. Healthcare and retail serve both permanent residents and the massive seasonal influx of visitors from the Highveld.
Tips for Visitors & New Residents
Margate is 130 km south of Durban on the N2. The beach is safe for swimming year-round — water temperatures stay between 20–27°C. The December school holidays bring massive crowds; book accommodation 3–6 months ahead for peak season. The N2 South Coast road can have heavy holiday traffic — leave Durban before 8am or after 10pm on peak days. Margate has a full range of retail and medical services. Uvongo Falls nearby is a lovely waterfall for a short hike.