Margate is a favorite holiday and party destination for many because of its vibey atmosphere and exciting nightlife compared to the rest of the south coast that can be described as sleepy and more suite for gentle relaxation.
Margate nightlife ranges from legendary beach parties to happening nightclubs to numerous pubs and friendly watering holes – you have plenty of things to do. The selection of restaurants is wide and varied if you fancy a good meal. Take a short drive to Shelly Beach if you want to see the latest movie on show. The Wild Coast Sun, that offers gambling in a breathtaking setting, is only a 30 minute drive down the coast.
During peak season the main beach area is the place to be for beach parties, music concerts, festivals, nightly Mardi Grass, beach competitions, flea markets and exhibitions.
Let’s take a closer look at what is on offer:
Nightclubs
Backline
GPS: -30.860146, 30.370348
Let your hair down and dance the night away at Backline, who knows how to throw the best parties. It is the longest standing night club on the coast and has a reputation for featuring the BEST local and international DJ’s that will definitely rock your world.
Pubs and other 'watering holes'
Malboer™ Margate Executive Car Wash and Sports Bar
GPS: -30.856343, 30.372365
The vibe is friendly and welcoming and you will soon be part of the Malboer family. Have a beer or bite to eat while you wait for your car to be cleaned or have a great evening out enjoying the live entertainment, a good meal, a game of pool, darts and getting to know new friends.
Sports Bar – Gaming slots – Restaurant – Car Wash – Live Entertainment – Pool & Darts – Pig n Ride Party Bus – Food Deliveries
The Village Tavern
GPS: -30.856242, 30.370348
The food and drinks are well priced, the food is excellent and comes in big portions and the music choice is always great. This is a venue where you can feel safe while having a jol. Louis’ karaoke is great fun.
Pigs Night every Wednesday 8-11pm
Dance Floor – Cages – Poles – DJ – Beer Gardens – Deck – Gambling – Pool – Karaoke – Best Burgers & Pizza in the World – Cheapest Alcohol in Africa.
The Cock and Tail Cafe
GPS: -30.862024, 30.370820
The perfect place to have cocktails and a bite to eat before your night of serious partying begins. It is right on the beach with great views over the main beach and the ocean. The delicious selection of cocktails are amazing and the food is great as well.
Slots room – Games room with pool.
Coyotes Sports Bar
GPS: -30.860764, 30.370124
They tote themselves as the most happening late night venue on the south coast. This up market sports bar with a relaxed country vibe is friendly and welcoming to all. There are several Happy Hours spread through-out the day and night. The kitchen stays open till very late making a late late bite to eat possible.
Live music – Darts – Pool tables – Big Screen
Senzi’s on Faya
GPS: -30.861548, 30.370245
Senzi’s is spread out over 2 floors with the restaurant on the first level and the bar lounge and nightclub on the second. It is hip and happening and can be very busy on weekends and during peak season.
Restaurant – Shisanyama – Bar – Nightclub – Private Lounge – Big Screen
Keg & Galleon Pub and Restaurant
GPS: -30.860690, 30.370409
Sharing premises with the Margate Hotel, the Keg is reputed to have one of the largest drinks selections in the country. You can expect a large choice of draughts, imported and local craft beers, colorful cocktails and an excellent selection of wines. You’ll be able to have a good meal as well and even do a bit of gambling in their slots room.
Big screen – Pub – Restaurant – Kingdom slots room
The Pump House
GPS: -30.854192, 30.377521
The Pump house has a cozy inside pub (inside the restaurant) but also an outside downstairs beer garden. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly and you’ll find yourself making friends very soon.
Pub – Restaurant – Beer Garden – Pet friendly
One Eyed Jack
GPS: -30.861666, 30.370038
One Eyed Jack’s is in the center of Margate and have great views of the sea from their deck area. It is a perfect spot to hang out and party with new friends or to watch a game while having drinks and enjoying a meal.
Pub & grill – Sports bar – Nightclub – Live entertainment
Smokey Joes
GPS: -30.865918, 30.369518
Also known as the Day Care Center for husbands. This a great place to meet locals and to unwind when you need a break. You can expect good food (pub fare) and drinks at very reasonable prices. Do try the chilli sauce.
Pub and Grill – Pool – Darts – Sport – Juke Box – Cold beers