If you’re living in Hong Kong and craving a vibrant weekend escape, Shenzhen’s Coco Park nightlife scene is the perfect getaway. Just a short trip across the border, this bustling hub in the heart of Futian District offers an exciting mix of bars, clubs, restaurants, and entertainment that rivals Hong Kong’s own Lan Kwai Fong. Whether you’re after a night of dancing, a relaxed evening with drinks, or a taste of international cuisine, Coco Park has it all. Here’s your complete guide to planning an unforgettable weekend nightlife adventure in Shenzhen from Hong Kong.
Why Choose Coco Park for a Weekend Nightlife Escape?
Coco Park isn’t just a shopping mall—it’s a nightlife destination that comes alive after dark. Located near the Shopping Park metro station, it’s easily accessible from Hong Kong and offers a dynamic atmosphere that blends modern Chinese energy with a touch of international flair. From trendy bars to upscale dining and late-night clubs, Coco Park caters to every vibe, making it an ideal spot for a weekend trip. Plus, its proximity to Hong Kong (just an hour or so by train) means you can enjoy a full night out and still be back home by Sunday.
How to Get to Coco Park from Hong Kong
Getting to Shenzhen from Hong Kong is a breeze, and Coco Park is conveniently located in the city center. Here’s how to make the journey:
- High-Speed Train: Head to Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and hop on a high-speed train to Shenzhen North or Futian Station. The trip takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on your destination. From Futian Station, it’s a quick metro ride on Line 1 or 3 to Shopping Park Station, right at Coco Park’s doorstep.
- MTR and Border Crossing: Take the MTR East Rail Line to Lo Wu Station, cross the border into Shenzhen, and then catch Metro Line 1 to Shopping Park Station. This option takes around 1-1.5 hours total.
- Bus or Ferry: For a more scenic route, consider a cross-border bus or ferry to Shenzhen, though these may take longer than the train.
Travel Tip: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and check visa requirements for China in advance. Most Hong Kong residents can enter Shenzhen with a valid travel document, but double-check based on your nationality.
Planning Your Weekend Nightlife Itinerary
To make the most of your Coco Park nightlife experience, here’s a suggested itinerary for a Saturday night escape from Hong Kong:
Friday Evening: Travel and Check-In
- Depart Hong Kong: Catch a late afternoon train or MTR to arrive in Shenzhen by early evening.
- Stay Nearby: Book a hotel near Coco Park, like the Futian Shangri-La or Grand Mercure Shenzhen Oriental Ginza, for convenience. Both are within walking distance or a short taxi ride.
- Quick Bite: Grab a light dinner at Coco Park’s food court or a nearby spot like HEYTEA for a refreshing bubble tea to kick off your weekend.
Saturday Night: Dive into Coco Park Nightlife
- 6:00 PM – Dinner at Coco Park: Start your night with a meal at one of Coco Park’s diverse restaurants. For Italian vibes, try Ciao Caro for delicious pizzas (around 130 CNY). Craving something local? Head to a Cantonese spot like Lei Garden for dim sum or roast goose.
- 8:00 PM – Bar Hopping: Coco Park’s bar street is legendary. Kick off at McCawley’s Irish Pub (Shop 151-152, Fuhua 3rd Rd) for a pint in a cozy, traditional setting with live music. Then, stroll to Zazoo for a jazzy vibe with live bands and creative cocktails.
- 10:00 PM – Clubbing: If you’re in the mood to dance, Club Viva (Shop 140, Coco Park North) is a must-visit. Open until 5 AM, it boasts a massive terrace, shisha, and pounding beats that keep the party going all night. Expect a mix of locals and expats enjoying the weekend energy.
- Midnight – Late-Night Snacks: Refuel with tapas at Club Viva or head to a nearby 24-hour spot for street food like spicy noodles or grilled skewers.
Sunday Morning: Wind Down and Return
- Brunch: Before heading back, enjoy a leisurely brunch at % Arabica Coco Park, known for its minimalist design and stellar coffee with views of the bustling complex.
- Return to Hong Kong: Catch a mid-morning train or MTR back to Hong Kong, leaving you refreshed for the week ahead.
Top Nightlife Spots in Coco Park
Here are the standout venues to explore during your weekend trip:
- McCawley’s Irish Pub: A taste of Ireland with hearty pub grub, live sports, and a warm atmosphere. Perfect for a laid-back start to your night.
- Zazoo: A trendy bar with live jazz, great drinks, and a sophisticated crowd. Ideal for music lovers.
- Club Viva: The go-to club for late-night dancing, complete with a terrace and a vibrant weekend scene.
- La Casa: A smaller spot with a big outdoor area, known for open mic nights and homemade pizzas. Great for a chill vibe with friends.
Practical Tips for Your Coco Park Nightlife Adventure
- Currency: Bring Chinese Yuan (CNY) or use mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay, widely accepted in Shenzhen. ATMs are available, but watch for fees.
- Language: English isn’t as common as in Hong Kong, so download a translation app like Google Translate or carry a phrasebook.
- Timing: Coco Park nightlife peaks on weekends, so Saturday is the best night to go big. Aim to return before the Lo Wu border closes at 10:30 PM if crossing by MTR, or opt for a later train from Futian.
- Dress Code: Bars and clubs range from casual to upscale—smart casual works for most spots, but pack something stylish for Club Viva.
Why Coco Park Beats a Typical Hong Kong Night Out
While Hong Kong’s nightlife is world-class, Coco Park offers a fresh twist. It’s less crowded than Lan Kwai Fong, with more space to breathe (hello, Club Viva’s terrace!), and the prices are generally lower. You’ll also get a taste of Shenzhen’s youthful, fast-paced energy, a contrast to Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan polish. Plus, the short travel time makes it an easy weekend switch-up.
Final Thoughts
A weekend trip from Hong Kong to Shenzhen’s Coco Park is the perfect way to shake up your routine. With its mix of dining, bars, and clubs, all wrapped in a modern, accessible package, it’s a nightlife lover’s dream just across the border. So, grab your passport, rally your crew, and get ready for a Saturday night in Shenzhen you won’t forget. Have you been to Coco Park? Share your favorite spots in the comments below!
