Connected to the better-known island of Taipa by the glitzy Cotai strip (where the fights and the gambling all take place) is Coloane, a one-time pirate outpost that still sees far fewer visitors than the rest of Macau. So far, give or take the odd go-kart track, this charming island (which is actually bigger than Taipa) has resisted the aggressive development happening elsewhere in the territory. You don’t really need more than a day to see the sights, but it’s well worth a detour from the main tourist track. Here are five ways to make the most of your time there.
Eat local
In Coloane, food is the order of the day—you’ll find great Macanese dishes (a fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cuisine), like the African chicken and lacassa soup. For some premium Macanese grub, Restaurante Fernando (9 Praia de Hac Sa, Coloane, +853 2888-2531, www.fernando-restaurant.com) stands out with its fine European style décor and fantastic location (at Hac Sa Beach). Alternatively, check out the numerous al fresco dining spots at Coloane Village for something a little cheaper. The highlight? Undoubtedly Lord Stow’s Bakery (1 Rua Da Tassara, Coloane Town Square, +853 2888-2534, www.lordstow.com), the original creator of the internationally famous pastry, Portuguese egg tarts.
Get on your feet
Coloane village is the kind of quiet colonial leftover that rewards patient exploration on foot, with cobbled streets leading you to historic treasures such as the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier, built in 1928, and Tam Kung Temple. After exploring the alleys, head towards the drive that overlooks the small sea passage separating Macau and China for a stunning view. And don’t forget to pay a visit to Coloane Pier, where old huts stand beside shops selling dried seafood—reminiscent of the town’s past as an active fishing village.
Live life to the fore
You may have played golf on plenty of other courses around the world but, we suspect, none quite like this one. The acclaimed Ocean Driving Range at the Macau Golf and Country Club (Estrada de Hac Sa, IIha de Coloane, +853 2887-1188, www.mgccmacau.com) lets you take a swing into the South China Sea, with caddies standing by on boats ready to fish out the balls. You’d better be on top of your game here—you’ll be asked to leave if you don’t meet the time limit or achieve a score of nine shots or less on the first hole.
Hit the beaches
Both the southern and eastern shores of Coloane boast better beaches than you’ll find anywhere else in Macau. Cheoc-Van in the south is more popular due to its golden sand, water activities (if you fancy jet-skiing or sailing) and safer swimming facilities, but the easterly, black sand Hac Sa is equally well-suited to a lazy afternoon before gearing up for a big night back in Macau proper.
Bed down
It’s a little run-down these days, but the 28 room Pousada de Coloane (“pousada” is Portuguese for inn or guesthouse) is wonderfully evocative of bygone glories. Think blue and white tiled walls, antique wooden furnishings, home-style Portuguese food and great views of Cheoc-Van beach from the breakfast terrace. Rooms start from around $320. Praia de Cheoc-Van, +853 2888-2144, www.hotelpcoloane.com.mo.
Essentials
Where to stay
While it’s definitely worth spending a night at Pousada deColane, it’s not a great base for further exploration. Holiday Inn Sands Cotai Central (Senhora De Esperanzca S/N Taipa, Macau, www.ihg.com), right on the Cotai strip, with easy access to both peninsular Macau and Coloane, is as convenient as they come. Rooms start from $286.
Getting there
Direct flights with Tigerair (www.tigerair.com) start from around $136 and takes about four hours.
Exchange Rate
10 MOP = $1.60
Visa
Singaporeans traveling in and out of Chinese territories do not require a visa for up to 30 days.
