Margate is situated on the Kwazulu Natal coastline, 60km South of Durban. Margate forms part of what is known as the Hibiscus Coast. The beaches are long and gradually slopes down into the ocean making this a great swimming beach for families with small children.

Margate is one of the smaller towns along the warm shoreline of Natal. It has no major shopping center - although it has a business center with smaller shops close to the main beach front. This town is also very popular with students and matriculants - so beware of Decembers with loads of youngsters!

What to do in and around Margate:

• Clubbing - Margate boasts a few night clubs that are well-known throughout the local community.

• Shopping - A few shell and handmade product shops line the main street.

• Sunbathing and swimming - there are lifeguards on duty right through the year and Margate boasts blue flag beaches. Shark nets protect the swimming beaches.

• Surfing - the waves aren't that big, but you will be able to surf on decent sized waves. The beaches are flanked by rocks and the side wash will pull you towards the rocks.

• Coffee Farm - less than 30km out of Margate. Coffee tastings and a tour of the factory and to end the day off lunch at the small restaurant and the opportunity to taste the home grown product. The coffee plantation has been around for more than 5 years.

• Gambling - Wild Coast Casino offers patrons various slot and table games, cinema, an upmarket club, various restaurants

Along the beach (near the shops, by the Wimpy), you will find a few local kids that build sand statues on a daily basis. These children make a living from donations - so please tip these homeless children.

Notes:

• When visiting South Africa keep your valuables out of sight and never let anything lay around unsupervised.

• Keep in mind that between 12 and 3 pm the African sun is at its hottest and most dangerous. Keep sun blocker, sun umbrella, shades (sunglasses) and a hat handy if you plan on playing in the waves.

• Only park in clearly marked public parking spaces with guards or restricted entry boom gates.

• Peak holiday seasons are over Easter and Christmas,

• Temperatures are mild to hot (in winter 10 degrees Celsius and in summer up to mid thirties with high humidity levels).

Enjoy the South African sun!