The picturesque resort town of Margate, located on the sunny coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is rightfully considered the jewel of South Africa's "Hibiscus Coast". This destination attracts travellers with its golden beaches, the warm Indian Ocean, and a relaxed atmosphere that is ideally suited for a family holiday.
When planning how to get to Margate, tourists can choose the option most convenient for them: from a direct flight to the local airport or a nearby major hub, to an exciting drive along the ocean.
By Plane
The fastest way to reach the resort is to take a flight to the town's own airport, Margate (MGH). It receives regular commercial flights from the country's major centres, such as Johannesburg, allowing tourists to begin their holiday almost immediately after landing.
Alternatively, you can fly into the international airport of Durban, located approximately 126 km away, which serves as the region's main aviation hub. Flights are also available to Pietermaritzburg or the city of Mthatha, from where the journey to the coast continues via ground transport.
There is no direct rail service to the resort, as Margate does not have its own train station. Travellers who prefer trains are advised to travel to major regional centres such as Durban or Pietermaritzburg.
These cities are included in the national rail network and serve as convenient transfer points. The remainder of the journey to the coast will need to be covered by bus or rental car.
The city has no major railway stations. Nearest cities with rail connections:
Bus travel is an affordable way to get to the coast, especially if you are travelling from major regional centres. Most often, tourists use connecting routes or direct shuttles from the city of Durban, which serves as the province's main transport hub.
A bus trip allows you to enjoy the views of the KwaZulu-Natal province without the need to drive. It is recommended to check the schedule with local operators in advance, as the frequency of trips may vary depending on the season.
Travelling by car is one of the most comfortable ways to reach the resort, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of South Africa. The most popular route runs from the city of Durban: a distance of 135 km can be covered in approximately 1.5 hours on a high-quality highway.
If you are driving from the direction of Pietermaritzburg, the journey will take about 2.3 hours (approximately 202 km). The road from the city of Mthatha will require about 3.5 hours of driving, as the distance is around 230–240 km.
To ensure your holiday in Margate is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared several useful recommendations considering the specifics of the region.
Clothing and Climate: Summer here is hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, swimwear, and a hat. A light jacket may be useful for evening walks.
Transport: Public transport is not extensively developed, so renting a car is best for freedom of movement. Taxi services and local minibuses are also available.
Finances: The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, but a small amount of cash is useful for tips and local markets.
Health and Sun: The sun in South Africa is very strong—be sure to use high SPF sunscreen. Tap water is generally safe, but tourists are often advised to drink bottled water.
Safety: As with travel anywhere, observe basic precautions: do not leave belongings unattended on the beach and avoid walking in unlit areas alone at night.
Communication: English is widely spoken and understood by almost all locals, although Zulu is also spoken in the region.
Local Etiquette: It is customary to leave a tip of 10–15% of the bill in dining establishments if a service charge is not included.
Beach Advice: Pay attention to the flags on the beaches—swim only in zones monitored by lifeguards, as ocean currents can be strong.
By following these simple tips, you can fully relax and enjoy the hospitality and beauty of this South African destination.