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Shenzhen's nightlife scene comes to a boil in two major areas: Coco Park in the Futian District (a flashy crowd) and Shekou in the Nanshan District (a bit more laid-back). Over the past couple of years, a handful of cool spots have also been popping up in the OCT Loft area.
A revamped industrial space with, cool studios, and shops, the leafy OCT Loft promenade is peppered with trendy alfresco cafés that are popular for evening drinks. For a relaxed night out, look for La Patisserie or LSD Party, which is an Italian café-cum-gallery (not a drug den). Bettet yet, for a memorable musical experience, time your visit with the annual Jazz Festival, usually in October.
One of the only craft breweries in Shenzhen, Bionic Brewery serves up its own batches of pale ales and wheat beers, alongside guest taps from other local brewers. The taproom is a lot of fun, with plenty of seating, colorful decor, and reasonable prices—drafts cost about Y30–40. It's only open on weekends, so plan ahead.
It's more of a stylish craft beer store than a bar, but Fool Heaven sells more than 100 types of craft beers from all over the world at great prices, ranging from about Y12 to Y60. It's self-serve, so you can take your purchases outside and enjoy the spacious outdoor seating area. If beer's not your jam, you can also find under-the-radar vodkas, wines, and whiskeys, along with coffee and tea.
The Filipino house band rocks the joint almost every night at the Terrace, but you can also find blues, reggae, and other music here all week. If you need a rest from dancing, slip outside to the balcony for a cocktail and a view over Sea World Square. To sit near the band, expect to pay a weekend mininum charge of Y500 per table.
One of the coolest party scenes in Shenzhen, True Color attracts international DJs. Music is generally trance or house, and the party usually doesn't break up until dawn.
Without a doubt the hottest nightspot in the OCT, V Bar boasts a holographic globe hovering over a circular bar. It's the only bar in town with an attached swimming pool.
From salsa to hip-hop, you can dance the night away inside this hot spot or enjoy a drink on the outdoor patio while you mingle with Shenzhen's young professional crowd. Tell your taxi driver "Gòuwù gōngyuán, 购物公园" (Coco Park).
