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Bank of Shenzhen Bay, Futian District, Shenzhen, China
A free coastal ecological park to get fresh air in Shenzhen
Shenzhen Mangrove Nature Reserve is located in the northeastern coast of Shenzhen Bay. It is belongs to a Birds Nature Reserve. It covers an area of 368 hectares. It is the only nature reserves that located in the urban area and the smallest one in China. It has been called "Mini Protected Area" by foreign environmental experts. There are 189 kinds of and the number of 100,000 migratory birds to come here to have rest or spend the winter, including white piano herons, Gulls, Xiaoqing Stilts, egrets and other kinds of birds. In addition to the mangrove plant group in the protection area, there are also 55 other species of plants. It is regarded as a green corridor in district of Shenzhen city, backed by a wide range of beautiful coastal road and fused with the coastal ecological park. It is also facing the rippling Shenzhen Bay. Here is not only a paradise for birds to habitat and a plant kingdom, but also a perfect place for people to hike to watch birds, sea view and experience the natural style. Shenzhen Mangrove Nature Reserve is gradually famous among tourists from home and abroad. Once visitors come to Shenzhen, they must go to this place to see the waterfront eco-park with meandering mangroves along the coast. And visitors can see tens of thousands of wintering waterfowl gathering here in winter, which is spectacular. Shenzhen Mangroves and Hong Kong Mai Po Nature Reserve are separated by a river. They together constitute the Shenzhen Bay wetland ecosystem and have become the most characteristic landscape of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong border.
In 1984, Shenzhen Mangrove Nature Reserve in Futian District was officially created. The total area of it was 304 hectares at that time. There was only one road leading to the place. The local fishermen fished here in the surrounded pond and there were large tracts of natural mangrove forests, orchards and other natural forests. In 1986, President of the World Wildlife (International) Foundation, Prince Philip, specially went southwards to Shenzhen, boarded mangrove nature reserve to watch birds here and enjoyed the scenery of Shenzhen Bay wetlands. In 1989, Chairman of the Danish Wildlife Foundation, Prince Henrik of Denmark came here to watch birds here with great interest, and he even called the nature reserve as the "Green Pearl" of Shenzhen.
The Mangrove Forest Boardwalk is the reserve’s signature attraction—a 1.2-kilometer-long wooden path that meanders through the heart of the mangrove community. Elevated to avoid damaging the delicate root systems of mangroves, the boardwalk lets you get up close to this unique "tidal forest" without disturbing the ecosystem.
What to see: Dense clusters of Kandelia obovata (the dominant mangrove species here), twisted aerial roots that breach the mudflats, and small crabs scurrying across the tidal zones at low tide. At high tide, the mangroves are partially submerged, creating a serene "water forest" scene.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon (9:00–11:00 AM / 4:00–6:00 PM), when the sun is gentle and the wetland is most active with wildlife.
Migratory Bird Observation Deck
As a national-level bird sanctuary, the reserve attracts over 100,000 migratory birds annually (from October to April), including rare and protected species. The Migratory Bird Observation Deck—equipped with binoculars and informational plaques—offers an unobstructed view of the bird foraging and resting areas.
Star bird species to spot
Black-faced Spoonbill: A globally endangered species (with only around 6,000 individuals worldwide); Futian Mangrove is one of its key wintering grounds in South China.
Spoon-billed Sandpiper: A critically endangered wader, often seen probing the mudflats for food.
Other common species: Little Egrets, Great Egrets, Grey Plovers, and Common Sandpipers.
Tip: Bring your own binoculars for better views; avoid making loud noises to not scare the birds.
At the western end of the reserve, the Shenzhen Bay Cross-Border Bridge Viewpoint provides a stunning panoramic view of the Shenzhen Bay Cross-Border Bridge—which connects Shenzhen (China) to Hong Kong (China)—stretching across the bay like a silver ribbon.It’s a perfect spot for photography, especially at sunset, when the bridge is bathed in golden light and the sky reflects on the calm bay waters. On clear days, you can also see the skyline of Hong Kong’s Yuen Long District across the water.
For visitors wanting to deepen their understanding of mangrove ecosystems, the Wetland Ecology Exhibition Hall (located near the reserve’s main entrance) is a must-visit. It features interactive exhibits, specimens, and
multimedia displays that explain:
Note: The hall is free to enter but may require registration on-site (no advance booking needed).
Bird Watching (October–April)
As mentioned earlier, winter (October to April) is the peak migratory season—this is the best time to observe rare and diverse bird species. The observation deck and the boardwalk near the tidal flats are the top spots.
Pro tip: Check the reserve’s official WeChat account (in Chinese) for real-time updates on bird sightings before your visit.
Leisure Walk or Jogging
The reserve’s flat, scenic paths (including the mangrove boardwalk and the coastal trail along Shenzhen Bay) are ideal for a casual walk, jog, or even a family bike ride (bikes are allowed on designated paths outside the core mangrove area).Breathe in the fresh sea air, listen to the sound of waves and bird calls, and enjoy the contrast between the lush green mangroves and the nearby modern city skyline.
Photography
Futian Mangrove is a paradise for photographers, with multiple photo-worthy spots:
Mangrove forest at sunrise/sunset (golden light filters through the leaves).
Migratory birds in flight or foraging on the mudflats.
The Shenzhen Bay Cross-Border Bridge at dusk.
Macro shots of small creatures (hermit crabs, mudskippers, and dragonflies) in the tidal zone.
Family & Educational Activities
The reserve is a great place for family outings and eco-education:
Kids can learn about mangroves, birds, and wetlands through hands-on observation (e.g., spotting crabs in the mud or identifying bird species).
The Ecology Exhibition Hall offers child-friendly exhibits (e.g., interactive screens that teach about food chains in wetlands).
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas (bring your own snacks and drinks; remember to take all trash with you to protect the environment).
From $ 569
From $ 380
From on request
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