Weekend Getaway in Shenzhen: Dim Sum, Seafood, and Ocean Views

If you think Shenzhen is all about shopping malls and high-tech vibes, you haven’t discovered the "laid-back version" of the city yet. This time, I decided to slow down and spend a day leisurely strolling, eating, and enjoying the ocean views in Shekou. Turns out, Shenzhen can be pretty chill too. ☀️ Breakfast: Authentic Cantonese Dim Sum to Start Your Day Shenzhen locals know their food, and you can tell by their morning tea rituals. Find a popular tea house near Shekou, sit down, and order a few baskets of dim sum: shrimp dumplings, siu mai, BBQ pork buns, and chicken feet in black bean sauce. Pair it with a hot cup of Pu’er tea, and you’ve got the perfect start to your day. 📝 Recommended Dim Sum: Don’t miss the delicate shrimp dumplings and creamy custard buns. 📸 Photo Tip: Arrange your dim sum neatly on the table with a teapot for an Instagram-worthy shot! 🦐 Lunch: Fresh Seafood Market—Pick Your Favorites For lunch, head to the Shekou seafood market area, where you can choose from a variety of fresh seafood like lobsters, crabs, geoduck clams, scallops, and sea urchins. Once you’ve made your selection, the restaurant will cook it for you—steamed, stir-fried, or boiled—bursting with flavor in every bite! 📍 Recommended Spots: Shekou Seafood Market / Private seafood restaurants near Sea World 🔥 Must-Try Dishes: Garlic steamed scallops, salt and pepper mantis shrimp, and steamed grouper 📸 Photo Angle: Capture the moment the seafood is served or take dynamic shots while choosing your seafood. 🌊 Afternoon: Shekou Seaside Promenade—Relax and Unwind After lunch, take a stroll to the seaside promenade near the Shekou Sea World Culture and Arts Center. The gentle sea breeze and soothing ocean views are incredibly relaxing. Watch the South China Sea as the sky darkens, sip on hand-brewed coffee, and listen to the sound of the waves—it’s easy to forget you’re in a bustling city. If you have time, hop on a short cruise or water bus to experience Shenzhen from the sea—a perfect way to unwind and snap some photos. 📍 Recommended Spots: Sea World Plaza, Mangrove Park, Shekou Ferry Terminal 📸 Photo Ideas: Capture silhouette portraits at sunset or take a backlit photo by the seaside railing for a dreamy vibe. 🍹 Final Thoughts: Shenzhen Isn’t Just Fast-Paced—It Can Be Slow and Delicious Too If you’ve only been shopping in Shenzhen, you’re missing out on its other side. Shekou offers a laid-back Cantonese charm with great food, scenic walks, and ocean views. No rush, no packed schedules—just pure chill vibes. 📅 Ideal Itinerary: Weekend getaway or a one-day quick trip for Hong Kong visitors 🚇 Travel Tips: Take the MTR to Futian Port for border crossing, then a 30-minute metro or taxi ride to Shekou.