Day Trip to Margate
From Philadelphia • 1hr 10min drive
Margate makes an excellent day trip from Philadelphia—just 1hr 10min on the Garden State Parkway. Known for its upscale family beach vibe, Margate offers beaches, dining, and activities that make it worth the drive.
Getting to Margate from Philadelphia
car
1hr 10min
Take the Garden State Parkway. Weekend traffic can add 30-60 minutes—leave early or late evening.
💡 E-ZPass strongly recommended for toll plazas
bus
46min
NJ Transit bus service available. Routes: 505.
💰 $10-20 one way
Doing Margate without your own car?
The train and bus get you to town. A one-day rental from Philadelphia gets you to the beaches the schedules skip.
Things to Do in Margate
Book tours and activities with free cancellation
Book Now - Free Cancellation→Your Margate Day Trip Itinerary
☀️ Morning
Depart
Leave early to beat traffic and maximize beach time
Arrive in Margate
Find parking and get oriented
Beach time
Claim your spot on the beach
⏱️ 2 hours
🏖️ Afternoon
Lunch
Grab a casual lunch at a local spot
Explore
Walk the boardwalk or downtown area
⏱️ 2 hours
Late beach or activity
Another swim or try a local attraction
🌅 Evening
Early dinner
Eat before the drive home to avoid rush
Head home
Depart to avoid late-night traffic
Top Things to Do in Margate
Lucy the Elephant
Beachstock
Marven Gardens
Where to Eat in Margate
South End Pizza
Sofia Restaurant
Shuckers Bar & Grille
Pierre's Pizza
Practical Information
Parking
Metered street parking closer to beach. Free parking on residential streets.
Budget
$50-100 per person including gas, tolls, parking, food, and activities. Beach badges typically $8-12/day if required.
Day Trip Tips
- Leave early to beat traffic and secure parking
- Bring cash for beach badges and parking meters
- Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to save money
- Check weather forecast—rain ruins a day trip
- Download Google Maps offline in case of spotty cell service
Turn Your Day Trip into a Weekend
Falling in love with Margate? Turn your day trip into a weekend getaway. Hotels and rentals book fast in summer—reserve ahead.
Popular hotels:
Margate Day Trip FAQ
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