Fantastic Beaches
Margate has immaculate beaches with warm waters, plenty of sunshine and an endless-summer vibe. Lucien Beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, meaning that it has achieved excellence in its hygiene, safety, facilities, and educational value. It assures visitors to the beach that they can enjoy a fantastic time here.
Lucien Beach is usually not too crowded, so you can relax away from the hustle and bustle while sunbathing, swimming or taking a leisurely walk. Fishing, hydrofoiling and stand-up paddling are also fun activities to enjoy here, and whales can often be seen blowing fountains and slapping their tails on the water’s surface during the months of July to December.
The main Margate Beach is a non-stop hive of activity during the summer, and visitors have a range of activities to enjoy. The beach is protected from curious predators by shark nets, and the Indian Ocean waters are warm. It’s ideal for swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, and stand-up paddling. There is also a tidal pool where children can swim in safe and relatively shallow waters.
The paved footpath along the beach is perfect for walks or running, and the whale deck is perfect for spotting Southern Right Whales.
Indoor Activities
The Margate Art Museum has beautiful works on display from local KwaZulu-Natal artists, showcasing the region’s culture and artistic range. Established in 1994, the museum forms part of the community and is a vital resource of outreach and education. The museum runs an educational programme offering workshops, talks, guided tours and information on the exhibits. There is also a corner of works by learners from the local school.
Margate is home to the Ramsgate Butterfly Valley where an enormous variety of butterflies can be viewed within a natural, accessible environment. The butterflies are bred on a local farm and visitors will be able to see the entire life cycle of these intriguing insects.
The indigenous South African butterflies are protected within a natural environment and the breeding centre is an informative resource at which visitors can learn about the butterflies and the host plants on which they survive. A trip to the butterfly valley makes for a great family trip. Sabenza Village in Margate is situated on the original vegetable farm that was owned by Tommy Turnbil.
The landscape is dominated by picturesque palm trees and meandering pathways through the village which makes for a relaxed and tranquil vibe. The village boats with a beautiful nursery and various shops offering various art and craft supplies and bead weaving classes.