Overview
Margate City is a small barrier island community on Absecon Island along the southern New Jersey shore, situated between Ventnor City and Longport. With a year-round population of roughly 6,200, it swells considerably during summer months when beachgoers arrive from Philadelphia, New York, and beyond. It sits just two miles south of Atlantic City but maintains a distinctly residential, low-key character.
The city is best known for Lucy the Elephant, a six-story wooden elephant-shaped building constructed in 1881 that is now a National Historic Landmark. Beyond that singular attraction, Margate draws visitors with clean, uncrowded beaches, a walkable commercial strip along Ventnor Avenue, and a genuine neighborhood feel that distinguishes it from its casino-heavy neighbor to the north.
Margate tends to attract families and return visitors who value calm over spectacle. Vacation homes and rental properties dominate the housing stock, and the dining and retail scene is modest but solid. It is a place built for relaxing rather than for sightseeing marathons.
Before You Go
Visas
Margate City follows standard US entry requirements. For visa guidance specific to your nationality, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and check the US Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) or the nearest US embassy or consulate.
Seasonality
The beach season runs roughly Memorial Day through Labor Day. Many restaurants and shops operate reduced hours or close entirely in the off-season, particularly from November through March. If you are visiting outside summer, verify that specific businesses are open before making plans.
What to Pack
- Sunscreen and beach gear in summer; UV index on the Jersey Shore can be high
- A light jacket for evenings even in peak summer, as ocean breezes cool quickly after sunset
- Cash for smaller vendors and street parking meters
- Parking is free on many residential streets but can be competitive in July and August; arrive early or plan to walk several blocks from your car
Getting There
By Air
The nearest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 65–70 miles northwest. Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) in Egg Harbor Township is closer, roughly 15–20 miles away, with more limited national service. Verify current routes and carriers directly with the airports.
By Car
Most visitors drive. From Philadelphia, take the Atlantic City Expressway east to Atlantic City and then head south on Atlantic or Pacific Avenue. From New York, the Garden State Parkway south to Exit 36 or 38 is typical. Street parking is available throughout Margate, and a small municipal lot exists near Lucy the Elephant; availability is limited on summer weekends.
By Bus
NJ Transit operates bus service along the shore route connecting Atlantic City to communities including Margate. Route and schedule details should be confirmed at njtransit.com before travel. There is no passenger rail service directly to Margate City.
Getting Around
Margate City is compact and largely walkable once you are in a particular neighborhood. Ventnor Avenue is the main commercial corridor, and the beach blocks run parallel a short distance to the south. Biking is popular, and the area has flat terrain suited to casual cyclists; bike rentals are available locally in season (verify current providers locally).
For trips to Atlantic City or neighboring communities, driving is the most practical option. Rideshare services operate in the area but availability can be inconsistent late at night. NJ Transit bus service connects the barrier island communities, but routes and frequencies should be confirmed before relying on them.
Things to See & Do
Lucy the Elephant
Lucy is the central attraction and one of the most unusual historic structures in the United States. Built in 1881 by real estate developer James Lafferty, the six-story wooden elephant was used at various points as a restaurant, a tavern, and a summer cottage. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Guided tours run during the season; check lucytheelephant.org for current hours and admission fees before visiting.
The Beach
Margate's beaches are managed by the city and require beach badges during the summer season. The beaches are generally clean, well-maintained, and less packed than some neighboring resort towns. Lifeguards are on duty during designated hours in season. Fishing from the beach is also popular.
Boating and Water Sports
Back-bay access along the Intracoastal Waterway makes Margate popular for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Several marinas operate in or near the city; verify services and availability locally or through the marina directly.
Day Trips
Atlantic City's boardwalk, casinos, and entertainment venues are a short drive north and make a natural complement to a Margate stay, particularly for visitors who want more nightlife or large-scale entertainment options.
Food & Drink
Margate has a concentrated dining scene along Ventnor Avenue and nearby streets, with a mix of casual seafood spots, pizza shops, delis, and sit-down restaurants. The area is known for fresh local seafood including clams, crabs, and fish that are caught regionally.
Several establishments have operated in Margate for decades and have loyal followings among returning summer visitors. A few spots are known for their ice cream or dessert offerings, which are popular with families in summer evenings. Because many businesses operate seasonally, it is worth checking current hours and whether a specific restaurant is open before planning a meal around it, especially in shoulder season.
Margate does not have a significant nightlife scene of its own. Visitors looking for bars, live music, or late-night dining typically head to Atlantic City.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for all emergencies in the United States. The Margate City Police Department handles local law enforcement. For non-emergency medical needs, Atlantic City and the surrounding area have hospitals and urgent care facilities; verify current locations and hours before travel.
Connectivity
Cell service and mobile data are generally reliable throughout Margate. Most hotels, rentals, and many restaurants offer Wi-Fi.
Beach Badges
City beaches charge for beach badges during the summer season. Badges are typically sold at the beach entrance or at a city office. Children under a certain age are often admitted free. Verify current pricing and age policies with the City of Margate or at the beach entrance.
Money
ATMs are available in Margate and Atlantic City. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops, but smaller vendors and some parking situations may require cash.
Safety
Margate City is generally considered a safe destination. It is a quiet, residential shore community and violent crime is uncommon. Standard urban precautions apply: be mindful of your belongings on the beach and in public areas during peak summer season when crowds increase.
Ocean swimming carries natural risks including rip currents. Swim near lifeguard stands during staffed hours and pay attention to posted flags indicating water conditions. Jellyfish can be present in summer months. Sun exposure is a real concern on the Jersey Shore; use appropriate sunscreen and stay hydrated during beach days.
