There is nothing quite like a good sunset. Those golden romantic warm hues disappearing over the horizon as day transforms into night. Even those who prefer staying in the shade love a beautiful sunset, and luckily for us Macau’s scattered hilly terrain has some great spots to catch sundown. So get away from the city’s chaotic daily life and dive into the light – here are some of the best places to enjoy Macau’s sunsets.
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Nam Van Lake
Nam Van lake is the perfect spot to sit and chill. While the lake features cute little boats and some mini-islands filled with green areas, the sun usually shyly sets in the back towards late afternoon. Although Macau summers can be insanely hot, its sky can also be unforgettable, with all shades of pink, purple, white, blue and red.
Nam Van Lake Nautical Centre Lago Nam Van, Macau
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Small Taipa Hill
Did you know the sun sets in front of Small Taipa Hill? Sports and sunsets always go together, if you ask me. When you start climbing this circuit there is a white relief design by Dorita Castel Branco, a Portuguese artist. As the sun sets, the sculpture lights up and it is the perfect spot to sit and relax, possibly along with some friends, snacks and beer as well. This spot lets you enjoy Macau side’s view both during day and night.
Small Taipa Hill Circuit 2000 Estrada de Sete Tanques, Macau
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Mount Fortress
The scenic view 360-degree of the city from Mount Fortress will never lets you down. It’s tough to climb all the way, and you might get pretty tired and sweaty, but once at the top it will be all worth it. If you’re lucky to catch a golden sunset total bliss will take over. This is definitely the best spot to have a full view of the city’s true and most raw landscape. The wide area allows one to go around and have a full range understanding of the differences in the Macau landscape and, if you are paying attention, its changes. One can gaze onto Grand Casino Lisboa and the old neighborhoods simultaneously – you will see that Macau is much more than Asia’s gaming Mecca.
Mount Fortress Rua do Monte, Macau
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Long Chao Kok Coastal Trail
Completed not so long ago, this hiking trail was designed to give people a peaceful safe haven of a trail. Featuring a small and usually deserted pagoda leading to the sea, walks through this path can be really soothing (or tiring, depending on your goal). When weather allows, it can be the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful local sunset away from the usual tourist paths. The trail starts in Hac Sa Beach and ends near a housing condominium. Just walk for three minutes to reach the bus stop or keep going until you reach Cheok Van Beach.
Long Chao Kok Coastal Trail Tv. Um de Long Chao Kok, Macau
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Penha Hill
This hill has it all. The view, the historic sites, the local twists, the greenery and the relaxing environment. Why not head there for an after lunch stroll through Penha area towards Penha Church, relax for a bit and take some photos until sunset? Enjoy the view while it lasts because it is one of Macau’s few spots free from gentrification. This area features several houses with colonial architecture and some green areas. For more information, go to the Macau Tourism website.
Chapel of Our Lady of Penha Hilltop of Penha Hill, Macau, +853 2857 2801
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Macau Cultural Center
Macau Cultural Center is one of the city’s most amazing buildings. Set close to the Macau Outer Harbour, it is known for its contemporary design that is quite unlike any other in the region. Besides its galleries and auditoriums, this cultural center features huge outdoor spaces and some sitting areas. The building has a cement plot on its right side which offers an amazing view including the sea, Taipa side and Amizade Bridge. Macau Science Center is pretty close and is also a good choice for a relaxing sunset spot.
Macao Cultural Centre Avenida Xian Xing Hai s/n, NAPE, Macau, +853 2870 0699, www.ccm.gov.mo
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Governador Nobre de Carvalho Bridge
This might be an unorthodox choice, but Governador Nobre de Carvalho Bridge can be an interesting place to enjoy beautiful sunsets. Try taking the bus from Macau to Taipa side and enjoy a window seat on the right side. Watch as the symmetry of the land lines with the sea and if you get it at the right time the sun’s rays will shine in as it heads down over the horizon.
Governador Nobre de Carvalho Bridge Pte. Gov. Nobre de Carvalho, Macau
Ocean Gardens
This housing condominium located in the east side of Taipa features a simple yet amazing terrace facing Mainland China on the other side of the river. Although residents might be more comfortable watching the sunset from their own balconies, this terrace offers a breathtaking view as well.
Ocean Gardens Jardins Do Oceano, Macau
