Shenzhen Bay Park
Shenzhen Bay Park stretches 13 kilometers along Shenzhen’s coastline, offering a serene escape from urban life. Opened in 2011, it spans 128 hectares of mangrove forests, cycling paths, and panoramic bay vistas. Designated a “National Urban Wetland Park,” it attracts 10 million visitors annually for birdwatching, sunset strolls, and outdoor recreation.
Historical Overview
The park’s creation began in 2005 as part of Shenzhen’s “Green Shenzhen” initiative, transforming former tidal flats into an eco-tourism hub. Key milestones include the 2013 opening of the Shenzhen Bay Metro Park and the 2020 designation as a Migratory Bird Sanctuary by the Wild Bird Federation. It hosted the 2018 “International Coastal Cleanup Day” and the 2022 “Marine Ecology Summit.”
Structural Layout
The park is divided into five zones:Coastal Promenade: A 13km paved path for cycling and jogging.
Mangrove Boardwalk: A 2km elevated walkway through protected wetlands.
Sunset Platform: An observation deck overlooking Shenzhen Bay Bridge.
Children’s Playground: A fenced area with slides, swings, and sandboxes.
Flower Garden: Seasonal blooms like bougainvillea (spring) and cosmos (autumn).
Major Attractions
Mangrove Boardwalk: Home to 189 bird species, including black-faced spoonbills and egrets.
Sunset Platform: A 10m-tall deck offering unobstructed views of Shenzhen Bay Bridge at dusk.
Flower Clock: A 15m-diameter floral timepiece with seasonal plantings.
Marina: Kayak rentals and a 500m floating pier.
Outdoor Gym: Fitness stations with sea views.
Migratory Bird Museum: Interactive exhibits on wetland ecology.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (1.5–2 hours):
Metro Park Entrance → Coastal Promenade → Flower Clock → Sunset Platform → Return via Mangrove Boardwalk.
Highlights: Birdwatching, sunset views, and floral displays.
- Nature Route (3–4 hours):
Mangrove Boardwalk → Migratory Bird Museum → Marina → Children’s Playground → Flower Garden.
Highlights: Ecology lessons and family-friendly activities.
- Fitness Route (2–3 hours):
Outdoor Gym → Coastal Promenade (cycling) → Sunset Platform → Marina (kayaking).
Highlights: Workouts with sea breezes and aquatic adventures.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Free entry; book kayak/bike rentals via “Shenzhen Bay Park” WeChat mini-program.
- Prices:
Kayak Rentals: ¥50/hour (single), ¥80/hour (double).
Bike Rentals: ¥30/hour (single), ¥50/hour (tandem).
Free: All park zones; fees apply only to rentals.
Transportation
By Subway: Line 9 to Shenzhen Bay Park Station (Exit D), 2-minute walk to Coastal Promenade.
By Bus: Routes 80, 229, or M398 to Shenzhen Bay Park Stop.
By Taxi: Direct to “Shenzhenwan Gongyuan” (深圳湾公园) – specify Metro Park/Marina entrance.
From Shenzhen Airport: 40-minute taxi ride via Guangshen Expressway.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid weekends/holidays; visit early (6:30 AM opening) or late (after 5 PM).
Crowds: Sunset Platform is busiest 5–7 PM; Mangrove Boardwalk is quieter.
Weather: Winter (December–February) for migratory bird sightings; summer evenings for cooler temps.
- Essentials:
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent (for mangrove areas).
Wear comfortable shoes (uneven boardwalk sections).
Photography allowed (tripods permitted).
Prohibited items: Drones, fishing, and loudspeakers.
FAQ
Which area in the park is the best for bird watching?
The area near the mangrove wetland is the best. Many migratory birds rest and forage there, and you can observe various kinds of beautiful birds with binoculars.
How to plan a perfect half-day tour itinerary in Shenzhen Bay Park?
You can start from the entrance near the subway station, first walk along the mangrove area to enjoy the natural scenery and watch birds. Then continue along the coastal promenade, stop at the Bay Viewing Platform to take in the views. Finally, end the tour at the Sunset Square to enjoy the sunset.
Are there any characteristic cultural activities held in Shenzhen Bay Park?
Yes, there are often art exhibitions, outdoor music concerts, and public fitness activities. Sometimes, there are also cultural festivals related to environmental protection or marine life to raise public awareness.
Is Shenzhen Bay Park suitable for cycling tours? If so, where can I rent a bike?
Yes, it's very suitable for cycling. There are several bike rental points near the main entrances of the park. You can easily rent a bike with your ID card or mobile payment.
Does the park provide cruise services? Which areas can be visited by cruise?
Yes, there are cruise services available. You can take a cruise to explore the bay area, enjoy the views of the coastline, and get a different perspective of the park and the city from the water.
