Abstract: The marine soft soils in coastal area of Shenzhen region were generally exhibited characteristics of high water content, high compressibility, low strength, low bearing capacity and strong structural characteristics. The theory of consolidation and the calculation of settlement were analysed preliminarily. Some critical problems such as soil parameters, overloading and differential settlement, requiring attention during the theoretical calculations, were then presented. Several technical measures such as preloading, composite foundation and riprap and displacement methods can be adopted for reinforcing the marine soft soil under corresponding special engineering conditions. These measures have been testified to be very effective.