Macau is a special administrative region of China. It is a former Portuguese colony, which has a rich blend of Chinese and European architecture and culture. It is very famous for its legal gambling and numerous casinos. Most people visiting Macau are there mainly for the gambling. However, children under 21 years old are not allowed to enter the casinos. So visitors with kids may worry that there are no places suitable for children to go, but this is an unnecessary worry. There are a lot of interesting places for children to go, as described in the list below.
House of the Dancing Water
It is a show like no other on earth; it's absolutely a must-see while you're in Macau. It is a super combination of audio-visual enjoyment. From the special effects to the human skills, everything about the show is extraordinary. You will cherish every moment of the show, which is also full of imagination.
You will see ballet, Chinese acts, African acrobats, motorcycle stunts and other performances. An international cast of performers take part in the show and act to their maximum capabilities.
The performers suddenly disappear and reappear from underwater. The stage is a floor for a while then suddenly changes into a massive pool of water, and then boats, buildings and other structures appear. All the performances are perfectly combined to form an old story.
Location: City of Dreams Casino, Macau
Macau Science Center
Senado SquareMacau Science Center is a place you should not miss when visiting Macau, especially if you have children. It is a good place for children to learn and to play, suitable for kids aged three to twelve.
There are lots of activities for kids to spend at least half a day on. It stimulates their brains to think and helps children to learn. You will find a wide range of exhibitions and games including cooking, sports, astrology, weather and conservation. There are plenty of hands-on activities and children can do role playing in a well decorated room like a construction site. Even the adults would like to take part in it.
The building was excellently designed by Ieoh Ming Pei, a worldwide famous architect. There is a great view of Macau Tower and the bridges can be seen from there.
Location: Avenida Dr Sun Yat-sen, Macau
Ruins of St. Paul's
Ruins of St. Paul'sIt is the landmark of Macau. It refers to the ruins of a complex of 16th century buildings which included St. Paul's College and St. Paul's Cathedral. It is a piece of history for Macau even though it is just a wall. The facade in the complex is extraordinary and it includes some exquisite carvings by Japanese monks.
The street leading to the ruins is also worth a visit. There are many shops and food stores with Canton and Hakka food, and lots of tasty cookies. If you stand and look at a product long enough, someone will feed you some pork jerky or an almond cookie. Read more on Ruins of St. Paul's
From there, you can also walk to Senado Square to see more of Macau's history.
Location: Rua da Ressurreicao, Macau
Hac-Sa Beach
Have you seen a black sand beach? Hac-Sa (meaning black sand) Beach is one of those. It is Macau's largest natural beach and is gorgeous. A lot of pine trees are planted on the embankment.
It is said that the black sand is due to the marine environment which enables the formation of a black particular due to a secondary mineral, glauconite. The glauconite, affected by ocean currents, was transported to the shore and then carried by the wind and waves to the beach, so that the original white and bright sandy beach was changed into the fascinating mystery of the black sand beach.
It is an ideal place for swimming. Lots of families love it and children like swimming or boating there. The sand is really dark, but it is completely safe.
Location: It is located in Coloane. You can take bus 15, 21A, 21, 25 or 26A to get there.
Grand Prix Museum
The Grand Prix Museum was opened in 1993 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Grand Prix in Macau. This museum has a number of automobiles and race bikes that take part in the annual race every November.
This museum is very enjoyable and fun for adults and children. There is an amazing array of cars, bikes and sets, as well as the drivers' histories. You can see many models of F1 cars and their history in Macau. The kids can try a simulator of one. It is interesting to look at the car development and to think about the danger and fragility involved. There are also podiums that you can stand on.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am-9:00 pm, closed on Tuesdays.
Location: 207 Youyi Street, Macau. It is next to the Wine Museum in Macau Peninsula.
A-Ma Temple
A-Ma TempleThe A-Ma Temple is the oldest temple in Macau, built in 1488 during the Ming Dynasty. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the Sea Goddess who protects the fishermen in Macau.
The atmosphere is amazing. You will see lots of devoted people going there to burn incense to pray for good fortunes and blessings.
There are four pavilions dedicated to the worship of different deities in a single complex that makes the A-Ma Temple an exemplary representation of Chinese culture.
Location: on Mage Street, South of Macau Peninsula, Macau.
Transportation: You can take Bus 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 10A, 11, 18, 21, 21A, 26, 28B or 34 to get there.
Westin Hotel and Resort
It is located in Coloane near Hac-Sa beach. In fair weather you can sit outside on the comfortable couches or armchairs, overlooking a lawn where your kids can romp around to their hearts' content. There is a fenced-off playground. There is also an outdoor pool which you can pay to use even if you are not a hotel guest. A delightful tea buffet is served on Sundays from 3 pm to 5:30 pm. They also have lovely in-house teas available.
Location: 1918, Hac-Sa Road, Coloane, near Hac-Sa Beach.
If you are not interested in the above tours, just tell us your interests and requirements and we will help you tailor-make a Macau family tour.