Macau is really focused on hardcore gambling, with a rather large high-end prostitution scene. That makes it a popular destination for sex tourists, mostly from mainland China, but it's not my thing. Therefore, I was happy to spend only a couple of days there before heading back to Hong Kong, which is way more fun.
The following article will give you a quick overview of what I learned during my trip. If you have more questions about partying in Macau, please just leave me a comment below.
Where to Stay in Macau Near the Nightlife
As you can see on the map above (click here to enlarge), Macau consists of:
- The Macau peninsula, which is the oldest part of the special administrative region. This is where you have most tourist attractions, the 5-star hotels, and the casinos.
- Taipa island is more residential, also more expensive as the apartments are more modern. It has a nice historic old town with a few good bars, and some luxury casino complexes as well.
- Coloane island is the southernmost point of Macau. It is where many expatriates are living, in a complex called One Oasis.
As a visitor interested in the nightlife, I think it is best to stay on the Macau peninsula. The best location is anywhere near the Wynn Macau (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rated 9.0 on Agoda, US$250 per night).
If you need something more affordable, check the Grand Emperor Hotel (⭐⭐⭐⭐ rated 8.4 on Agoda, US$130 per night) or the Sintra Hotel (⭐⭐⭐ rated 8.4 on Agoda, US$75 per night).
Macau doesn't have any decent budget hotels. There aren't any hostels either. It seems the government doesn't want to attract low-end tourists and backpackers. If you want to sample the nightlife without booking a hotel, it is possible to arrive in the afternoon and to go back early in the morning. The ferries operate 24-hour from and to Hong Kong.
Best Nightclubs in Macau
Nightclubs in Macau are almost all Chinese-oriented. This means that they tend to favor large groups who book a table and order bottle service. If there is a dance floor, it will often be small. If you are planning to dance and to buy individual drinks, you may feel like a second-class customer in those places.
Para
Nightclubs in Macau are almost all Chinese-oriented. This means that they tend to favor large groups who book a table and order bottle service. If there is a dance floor, it will often be small. If you are planning to dance and to buy individual drinks, you may feel like a second-class customer in those places.
Para
Para, in City of Dreams, is certainly the best nightclub in Macau. This doesn't say much considering the lack of competition.
It is a medium-sized, modern venue with a stage for live performances (DJs, bands, dancers) and several VIP seating areas. Unfortunately, there isn't a real dance floor. Entrance is free before 12.30am. After that, it will cost you on average 300 MOP with 1 or 2 drinks. It isn't crowded every night, especially during the week. They invite foreign DJs and performers regularly, in which case you can expect a better party experience. Music depends on the DJ (EDM, hip-hop mostly). Ladies night on Wednesday: Free entrance for girls and complimentary drinks.
DD3 Disco & KTV
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This is a small Chinese-oriented club. The main lounge is quite small, almost like a bar, with just a few tables and a live stage. They have some sexy hostesses and dancers, from Thailand or China. It is "busy" only on weekends and late (entrance fee around 200-300 MOP with two drinks). Before entering, make sure there are some people inside. Music is generally house/EDM.
It also has a KTV, adult-oriented, with lady companions.
Best Bars in Macau
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The bar scene in Macau is pretty poor. There are some expensive, yet boring venues in most of the luxury hotels (for instance, McSorley's Ale House in The Venetian which was deserted when I visited it). They often have live music (cover bands or piano), but nothing truly happening.
Vida Rica Bar (in the Mandarin Oriental), while not being much busier, has the advantage of offering a nice view and sleek design. Their bartenders also serve amazing, though pricey, cocktails.
In the Galaxy Hotel, the Macallan is a whisky lounge with over 400 premium bottles. It is classy and comfortable, great for a quiet drink.
The St Regis Bar has a superb design, and they frequently invite well-known mixologists. They have live jazz in the evenings.
Outside 5-star hotels, you don't have that many options. Near the docks, on the street opposite Kun Iam Statue, there are several simple bars. Some serve decent food at reasonable prices. They have regulars every night, usually older locals.
Outside 5-star hotels, you don't have that many options. Near the docks, on the street opposite Kun Iam Statue, there are several simple bars. Some serve decent food at reasonable prices. They have regulars every night, usually older locals.
Another possibility is to go to Taipa island.
The Broadway food street in the Galaxy complex is a busy place to eat and it has an American, country-styled bar, The Roadhouse. They have live bands playing classic rock and blue, and they also show various sporting events (Premier League, Formula 1, etc).
In Taipa's old village, the Old Taipa Tavern is one of the best bars in Macau if you are an expat. They are open every day, serve food, have 27 types of craft beer, and have sports on TV. Dart competition every monday.
In Taipa's old village, the Old Taipa Tavern is one of the best bars in Macau if you are an expat. They are open every day, serve food, have 27 types of craft beer, and have sports on TV. Dart competition every monday.
Walking distance, the Prem1er Bar has a large selection of liquors and wine. You can check their Facebook page for their events (live music, sports, happy hours).