Hong Kong nightlife isn’t just about Lan Kwai Fong — Ocean Park offers daytime fun and nighttime wine revelry

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Hong Kong

When it comes to Hong Kong nightlife, the bustling Lan Kwai Fong is usually the first thing that springs to mind, with its narrow alleys flooded by tourists from around the world as soon as night falls, creating an electric atmosphere akin to a massive carnival. But if you’re looking for a fresh way to experience the charm of Hong Kong at night, there’s another trendy option. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Hong Kong Ocean Park has launched a 19-day gourmet and wine festival called “South Island Gastronomy,” extending its operating hours into the night so visitors can feast on delicious food, sip fine wines, and unwind in a romantic seaside setting.

▲ Hong Kong Ocean Park celebrates its 40th anniversary with even more magic after dark. (Photo / Provided by Hong Kong Ocean Park)

▲ Hong Kong’s MTR South Island Line opened just last December.

The Hong Kong MTR South Island Line officially commenced operations at the end of December last year. The opening of Ocean Park Station has significantly improved accessibility for visitors to the park. Coinciding with the park’s 40th anniversary celebrations, the management has introduced the South Island Gastronomy event, allowing both international travelers, locals, and office workers to come together and party after dark. The South Island Gastronomy event is divided into three major themes: “Sake Tasting Festival,” “Chill Beer & Music Night,” and “Star Gourmet Wine & Dine.” The venue features mini concerts, street performances, and dazzling water dance shows enhanced with fire effects, giving you a full taste of the vibrant energy of Hong Kong’s Southern District.

● 《ETtoday News Cloud》 reminds you: Don’t drink and drive, don’t drive if you’ve been drinking, and underage individuals should not consume alcohol.

▲ Sip a variety of global wines with your own little glass.

▲ Live band performances create a joyous atmosphere, almost like a wine carnival celebration.

▲ Nearby, the romantic water dance spectacle makes it a perfect spot for couples on a romantic date.

Visitors entering the park after 5 PM can enjoy a wide selection of rich and mellow sakes at the Sake Tasting Festival, including several Japanese and Taiwanese sake brands making their Hong Kong debut. For beer enthusiasts, the Chill Beer & Music Night offers unique craft beers from around the world, featuring popular local Hong Kong craft beer brands such as Mai Zi, Kowloon, Men Shen, and Shao Ye Beer. Notably, the grand finale of South Island Gastronomy, the “Star Gourmet Wine & Dine” theme, allows foodies to savor signature dishes crafted by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants.

▲ In addition to premium sakes from Japan, there’s also a range of Japanese delicacies available, such as vegetarian sushi, ramen dipping sauces, and hamburger steak.

▲ From Taiwan’s Wufeng Farmers' Association Winery.

▲ A wide variety of wines for you to enjoy.

▲ Ocean Park transforms into an adult-exclusive relaxation haven after dark.

During the day, visitors can have fun with adorable sea creatures and enjoy thrilling rides, then stay on for more revelry at night. From morning to night, you can make the most of your fun day, as the seaside park morphs into a wine carnival in the evening. Enjoy delicious food while taking in traditional taiko drumming, mini concerts, and stunning water dance performances. Alternatively, you can choose to enter the park after 5 PM and spend a relaxing South Island night immersed in gourmet food and fine drinks.

▲ Exciting dance performances liven up the atmosphere.

▲ Traditional taiko drum performances have limited seating, so arrive early to queue.

《The South 南岛飨乐》

Dates: March 17 to April 17 (Sake Tasting Festival: March 24–26; Chill Beer & Music Night: March 31 – April 4, April 7–9; Star Gourmet Wine & Dine: April 13–17)
Time: 5 PM – 10 PM (Fridays, Saturdays, and evenings before Hong Kong public holidays until 11 PM)
Venue: Waterfront Park, Hong Kong Ocean Park

Ticketing: Daytime ticket holders can stay for South Island Gastronomy activities by purchasing tokens worth at least HK$100.
Regular Ticket: HK$168
* Nighttime Ticket (entering after 5 PM)
* HK$50 cash voucher
* One specialty cocktail / specialty drink
* Traditional taiko drum performance or mini concert at Yee Hing Square (seating limited, first-come-first-served)
* One MTR same-day single journey ticket from Ocean Park Station to any destination