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Things to Do in Margate, New Jersey
Relax on the Beaches
Margate is home to wide, clean beaches that stretch along the Atlantic. Unlike busier tourist destinations, Margate’s beaches remain quiet and family-friendly. You won’t find boardwalk noise or amusement parks here. Instead, you get soft sand, plenty of space, and calm surf. Bring a beach chair and soak up the sun. Or take a morning walk as the sky turns pink and orange.
During summer, lifeguards watch over designated swimming areas. That makes it safer for children and casual swimmers. Don’t forget your beach badge—visitors need one during the peak season.
Visit Lucy the Elephant
No trip to Margate is complete without seeing Lucy the Elephant. Standing six stories tall, this giant wooden elephant was built in 1881. Surprisingly, it has served as a hotel, tavern, and now a museum. It’s more than a roadside attraction—it’s a National Historic Landmark.
You can take a guided tour inside Lucy. Climb up to the howdah (the carriage on her back) for views of the beach and town. And yes, the entire elephant is walkable. Both kids and adults find it fun and fascinating.
Go Fishing or Boating
Margate sits between the ocean and the bay. That means there are endless opportunities for water adventures. If you like to fish, check out the pier at Huntington Avenue or join a local charter. There’s also the back bay, where calmer waters make it easier for kids or beginners to learn.
You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, or small boats. As you explore the bay, look for herons, ospreys, and other shore birds. Sunset paddling is especially peaceful.
Enjoy the Local Food Scene
Margate offers a strong lineup of restaurants. You’ll find casual spots for breakfast and upscale places for dinner. Start your day with bagels and coffee at a corner cafe. Later, grab a slice from one of the pizzerias near Ventnor Avenue.
If you love seafood, you’re in the right place. Try the crab cakes or fresh catch of the day. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, especially in warmer months. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal with ocean breezes and people-watching.
Stroll or Bike Around Town
Margate is perfect for walking or biking. Streets are flat, and the town is compact. You can get from one end to the other in less than 15 minutes by bike. Along the way, you’ll pass beach houses, small shops, and quiet side streets lined with trees.
Rent bikes if you don’t have your own. Some rental shops even offer beach cruisers or tandem bikes. It’s a great way to explore at a relaxed pace.
Shop at Local Boutiques
Margate has several charming stores along Ventnor and Atlantic Avenues. You’ll find beachwear, jewelry, gifts, and more. These aren’t big chain stores. Most are locally owned, so each shop has a unique feel.
If you’re shopping for souvenirs or gifts, this is the place. From nautical-themed home decor to handmade candles, there’s plenty to browse.
Enjoy a Night Out
When the sun sets, Margate still has energy. Places like Ventura’s Greenhouse offer oceanfront drinks and music. Meanwhile, restaurants turn up the ambiance with dim lights and fresh seafood.
There are also bars and lounges with live music or DJs. While Margate isn’t as wild as Atlantic City, it has a polished, relaxed nightlife vibe.
Play Mini Golf with the Family
Families will love the local mini-golf courses. They’re clean, creative, and fun for all ages. It’s a great way to wind down after the beach or before dinner.
Several courses are within walking distance of downtown. Most stay open late during the summer months, so you can play under the lights.
Catch a Sunset on the Bay
If you’re not on the beach, head to the bay side for the evening. The sun sets over the bay, casting orange and pink reflections on the water. There are benches and quiet spots where you can sit and just take it all in.
Bring a camera—or just your phone. These sunsets are photo-worthy and relaxing.
Attend Local Events and Farmers Markets
In the summer, Margate hosts community events. These include outdoor concerts, art shows, and farmers markets. The markets often feature local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
It’s a great chance to meet locals and experience the small-town charm that defines Margate.
Take a Day Trip to Atlantic City
While Margate offers peace, you’re just minutes from Atlantic City. If you want casinos, shows, or big shopping outlets, head north for the day. You can enjoy the lights of the city and return to your quiet beach rental by nightfall.
Many visitors love this contrast—it’s the best of both worlds.
Unwind and Enjoy the Slower Pace
Perhaps the best thing to do in Margate is nothing at all. Sit on the beach. Read a book. Watch the waves roll in. Margate doesn’t push you to move fast. That’s the magic.
It’s the kind of place where mornings start with the sun and coffee on the porch. And evenings end with long walks and ice cream.
Margate, New Jersey, is where summer memories are made. It’s where kids laugh in the surf, couples watch sunsets, and friends gather over seafood dinners. There’s no rush—just the rhythm of the tides and the warmth of a beach town that feels like home.
Geography of Margate City, NJ
Location on the Jersey Shore
Margate City sits on Absecon Island in Atlantic County, New Jersey. It lies between Ventnor City to the northeast and Longport to the southwest. The Atlantic Ocean borders the city on one side, while the Intracoastal Waterway lines the other. Because of this, Margate offers both ocean and bay views. This layout gives residents and visitors quick access to both beaches and calm bayside areas.
Small, Yet Well-Planned
According to the map below, Margate City spans just over one square mile. It may be small, but the town is well-organized. Streets run in a neat grid pattern. This makes walking and biking around town simple. Atlantic Avenue runs east to west through the heart of the city. Several smaller roads lead straight to the beach. The city’s layout helps keep traffic light and parking easier to find than in larger shore towns.
Natural Borders and Features
To the east, the wide sandy beach stretches for blocks. It connects directly to the Atlantic Ocean. To the west, the back bay provides a calmer, more private feel. Many homes have docks on these quiet canals. Also, wetlands around the city help protect it from flooding and offer a habitat for wildlife. You can even spot egrets and herons in these marshy spots.
Close to Big Attractions
Despite its quiet feel, Margate is just minutes from Atlantic City. The city is connected by roads like Ventnor Avenue and Atlantic Avenue. These routes make it easy to reach casinos, shops, and the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. So, you get peaceful beach life with urban excitement nearby.
In short, Margate’s geography blends convenience, beauty, and balance. Use the map below to explore how its location and layout shape the town’s easygoing charm.
