Margate

Margate is the premier holiday destination on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, serving as the hub of the pretty Hibiscus Coast. Margate Main Beach holds Blue Flag status, offering safe swimming conditions, warm Indian Ocean waters, and soft sand, making it a magnet for families and sunseekers. The town is famous for its lively holiday atmosphere, reminiscent of classic coastal resorts. Beyond the beach, Margate features world-class scuba diving opportunities, particularly at the nearby Protea Banks, a reef globally renowned for shark sightings. Anglers enjoy the town's fishing pier, while hikers can explore the nearby Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, located just a short drive inland. Margate also hosts major annual events, such as the colorful Margate Mardi Gras. Dining in Margate is diverse, ranging from fresh seafood to international cuisine in numerous restaurants along the beachfront promenade. The town has its own regional airport but is also easily accessible via the N2 from Durban (about 1.5 hours). The best time to visit is during the South African winter (May to September) when the weather is dry and mild, and the famous 'Sardine Run' often passes by.

Nearby cities

Durban

The third largest city is located on the Indian Ocean and has South Africa's busiest cargo port.

Pietermaritzburg

The capital of KwaZulu-Natal is distinguished by its Victorian architecture and historical significance.

Newcastle

The third-largest city in KwaZulu-Natal is a major industrial center, historically known for coal mining.

Richards Bay

A port city on the north coast that operates the country's largest coal export terminal.

Ladysmith

Located on the banks of the Klip River, the town is best known for the long siege during the Boer War.

Port Shepstone

The largest town on the southern coast of KwaZulu-Natal serves as the gateway to the tourist 'Hibiscus Coast'.

Ramsgate

A charming coastal village on the South Coast, known for its tranquil atmosphere, excellent dining, and whale watching.

Empangeni

A hilly town located not far from Richards Bay, traditionally a center for sugarcane and timber.

Howick

Famous for the spectacular Howick Falls and as the place where Nelson Mandela was captured in 1962.

Ulundi

Once the capital of the Zulu Kingdom and later of the KwaZulu bantustan, rich in cultural heritage.

Ballito

The heart of the Dolphin Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, tidal pools, and annual surfing competitions.

Salt Rock

A popular holiday destination on the Dolphin Coast with excellent surf spots and natural tidal pools.

Scottburgh

A charming coastal resort on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, famous for its safe swimming beaches and proximity to Aliwal Shoal.

Umkomaas

Umkomaas is a vibrant coastal town in KwaZulu-Natal, renowned worldwide for its spectacular scuba diving and beautiful beaches.

KwaMakhutha

KwaMakhutha is a bustling South African township in KwaZulu-Natal, situated conveniently close to the famous South Coast beaches.

History & landmarks

Shakaland

A living museum and cultural village that authentically showcases the traditions and history of the Zulu people.

More places

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

This memorial marks the exact spot where Nelson Mandela was arrested by the apartheid police in 1962.

Rorke's Drift

Rorke's Drift was the site of a famous defense in 1879, where a small British garrison repelled a massive Zulu attack.

Isandlwana Battlefield

The Isandlwana Battlefield was the site of the first major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War, where the British army suffered a decisive de…

Blood River Heritage Site

The Blood River heritage site commemorates the historic 1838 battle between the Voortrekkers and the Zulu Kingdom.

Majuba Hill

Majuba Hill was the site of the final and decisive battle of the First Boer War in 1881, resulting in a Boer victory.

Spion Kop Battlefield

Spion Kop was the site of a bloody battle during the Second Boer War in 1900, where British troops vainly attempted to relieve the besieg…