Abstract: Characteristics of mangrove community structure and species diversity serve as crucial indicators for assessing mangrove ecosystem health. Based on field survey data from three major mangrove areas in Shenzhen, this study comprehensively analyzed and compared community characteristics including arbor species composition, community types, dominant species, and species diversity at a holistic scale, aiming to provide scientific basis for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of mangroves in Shenzhen. The Futian Mangrove National Nature Reserve, Xiwan Mangrove in Bao'an District, and Luzui Mangrove in Dapeng District represent three typical mangrove distribution areas located in southern, western, and eastern Shenzhen, respectively. To elucidate the community characteristics of Shenzhen’s mangroves, these three representative mangrove distribution areas were selected as study areas. The results demonstrated that in terms of community types, Luzui Mangrove exhibited richer diversity with seven community types, compared to five types each in Futian Mangrove and Xiwan Mangrove. Regarding dominant species, Kandelia obovata, Sonneratia caseolaris, and Sonneratia apetala served as foundational and dominant species widely distributed across all three mangrove areas. Bruguiera gymnorrhiza functioned as an important associated species in Futian Mangrove, while Laguncularia racemosa, Excoecaria agallocha, and Rhizophora stylosa formed locally dominant communities as characteristic species in Luzui Mangrove. Aegiceras comiculatum and Avicennia marina significantly contributed to species diversity as key components in both Futian and Lujiazhuang Mangroves. Population age structure analysis revealed stable patterns in Futian and Xiwan Mangroves, whereas Luzui Mangrove showed a younger population with overall growth potential. In species diversity assessment, Luzui Mangrove demonstrated higher diversity indices with more prominent dominant species and more even species distribution. For mangrove restoration and reconstruction, we recommended adopting an integrated approach combining native and introduced species to enhance ecological stability and landscape value. Native species including Excoecaria agallocha, Avicennia marina, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza were particularly recommended as they pose no ecological invasion risks while effectively increasing biodiversity. These species represented excellent candidates for transforming Kandelia obovate dominated communities or establishing mixed mangrove forests in Shenzhen, contributing to both ecological resilience and aesthetic value of the mangrove ecosystems. The findings provide valuable insights for developing science-based conservation strategies, highlighting the importance of maintaining species diversity and appropriate species composition in urban mangrove management. The spatial variation observed across different locations underscores the need for site-specific management approaches that consider local ecological conditions and community characteristics. This study establishes a fundamental framework for ongoing monitoring and adaptive management of Shenzhen’s valuable mangrove resources.