Port Vila’s iconic seafront precinct is open once again — and it’s more than just a place to stretch your legs or sip a cold coconut in the sun. After being rocked by a series of powerful earthquakes in late 2023, the capital of Vanuatu is bouncing back, and its waterfront is at the centre of the action.
In the aftermath of twin magnitude 6.5 and 7.0 quakes that struck just days apart, Port Vila’s harbourfront was left cracked, cordoned off, and eerily quiet — an unusual state for a place known for its vibrant community, colourful market stalls, and sea-facing cafés. But today, the area is humming once again.
With the release of Temporary Map Version 2, locals and visitors alike can now navigate the reopened space confidently, with clearly marked access points for both foot traffic and vehicles. The map also highlights which businesses have returned to their prime spots along the waterfront.
That includes local legends like Nambawan Café, always a go-to for sunset views and good coffee, the Big Blue Dive Operators, and Vanuatu Watersports, who are once again making it easy to get wet and wild in the waters of Fatumaru Bay.
Crucially, the reopened boardwalk now reconnects the harbour area with Fatumaru Bay, restoring a key link for walkers, joggers, and anyone chasing those sea breezes.
“Only a small handful of businesses are still closed due to damage from the earthquakes,” says Jacquie Carson, New Zealand market representative for the Vanuatu Tourism Office. “But the majority are back up and running — and with typical Ni-Vanuatu resilience, they’ve come back strong.”
The earthquakes were a major shock to a tourism industry still rebounding post-Covid. Infrastructure took a hit, and recovery took months of rebuilding, planning, and community effort. But this reopening marks a major milestone — and sends a clear message to travellers: Vanuatu is open, and it’s ready for adventure.
Whether you’re diving coral gardens, hiring a kayak, or just lounging with a lap lap and a local Tusker beer, Port Vila’s seafront is once again the place to be.
