Aerogel-prepared magnesium oxide (A-MgO) was modified by attachment of gold particles. Subsequent modification of its surface with alkylsilylation of n-octadecyltrichlorosilane and chlorotrimethylsilane exhibits a high catalytic activity for oxidation of styrene with tert-butyl hydroperoxide in liquid phase. Catalytic results show that the introduction of gold on the surface of A-MgO gives a higher catalytic activity in styrene oxidation compared to titanium dioxide. The effect of surface modification of A-MgO was studied with XRD, UV-Vis DR, FTIR and nitrogen adsorption analysis.