4 Best Things to do in Macau, China
Last Updated on August 1, 2022
Located in Southern China, the former Portuguese colony (and now Chinese) city of Macau has never really crossed my mind when thinking of travelling to Asia. Yet, I was happily surprised when I went there for a few days with my friends.
A true fusion of the European and Chinese cultures, Macau has a very distinctive food culture: from shrimp roes noodles to egg tarts, pork buns… the variety of flavours is incredible. The architecture is also very unique; you could visit the St. Lazarus’ Church and the Chinese A-Ma temple, as well as the City of Dreams skyscraper complex in one day.
Here are the best things to do in Macau, China!
Photo by ohlala88
1. Hiking in the Coloane Island
Like Hong Kong, the territory of Macau is a peninsula. One of the islands, called Coloane island, is very famous for its hiking trails and offers another view of Macau. This is defintley one of the best things to do in Macau! Because of its green landscapes and pastoral forest, locals also called it Green Lung. The Coloane Hiking Trail, well-known trail among tourists, leads you straight to a traditional Chinese temple on top of Alto de Coloane. However, I do recommend the Dragon Claws trail, which is shorter but will show you the most incredible rock structures, among one which looks like a claw.
How to get there: From the center of Macau city (Praca Ferreira Amaral), you can take the bus 26A that will directly drop you to the center of Coloane island. Depending on the hiking trail, you may need to take another bus.
2. Hac Sa Beach
Photo by Berahan Luxing / CC BY 2.0
The Hac Sa Beach is the most beautiful beach in Macau on the Coloane island. Its white sand and surrounding coastal forests are the perfect gateways from the buzz of the city center. The beautiful Hac Sa Park is also right across the beach. If the beach tends to be filled up quickly on beautiful days, you always find a spot to sit and have fun with your friends. Plus, BBQ areas in the surroundings make the best meals to enjoy and share with locals.
How to get there: From the center of Macau city (Praca Ferreira Amaral), the bus 25 will drop you on the road in-between the Hac Sa Park and the beach.
3. SEAC Pai Van Park
Photo by Martin Ng / CC BY-SA 2.0
If you are traveling in a big group, Saec Pai Van Park is a must-go. Known as the largest natural green area of Macau, the park is open from 8 am to 6 pm every day. This is also the entrance of two other hikes: the Seac Pai Van Nature Walk and the Seac Pai Van River Ecological Trail. The area is also a great spot to discover the fauna of Macau: the small zoo features many primates and colourful birds. The main animals we were curious to see were the red pandas as well as the two giant pandas and their twins. Giant pandas are near extinction and the zoo is ensuring the protection of those fascinating creatures.
How to get there: From the center of Macau city (Praca Ferreira Amaral), the bus 50 or 25 both have a stop at the SEAC Pai Van Park.
4. Hac Sa Reservoir Country Park
Photo by birksandbriads
If you feel adventurous, the Hac Sa Reservoir Country Park is a fun area with lots of equipment for outdoor activities. You have the choice between water activities (canoes, paddle boats), getting lost in a plant labyrinth, or camping in the middle of Macau’s nature. You will also find a hiking trail which starts from the Park and takes you to the reservoir’s mesmerising waters and leads you to a breathtaking view of Hac Sa Bay.
How to get there: From the center of Macau city (Praca Ferreira Amaral), take the bus 11 and stop at the Ocean Plaza bus station. Then, wait for the bus 15, which will drop off at the Hac Sa Reservoir Country Park (Hac Sa Dam bus station).
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