Things to Do at Caudan Waterfront

Complete Guide to Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis

About Caudan Waterfront

Caudan Waterfront is Port Louis's premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, beautifully situated along the historic harbor of Mauritius's capital city. This vibrant waterfront complex seamlessly blends modern commercial facilities with the island's rich maritime heritage, offering visitors a perfect blend of retail therapy, cultural experiences, and scenic harbor views. The development has transformed the old port area into a bustling hub that attracts both locals and tourists seeking quality shopping, diverse dining options, and entertainment. The waterfront complex features a mix of local and international brands, artisan craft shops, restaurants serving both Mauritian and international cuisine, and cultural attractions that showcase the island's diverse heritage. With its strategic location overlooking the harbor and backdrop of the Moka Mountains, Caudan Waterfront provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls, shopping expeditions, and romantic dinners. The complex also serves as a gateway to understanding Mauritius's colonial history and multicultural identity through its various museums and cultural centers.

What to See & Do

Blue Penny Museum

Discover Mauritius's postal history and see the famous Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps, among the world's rarest and most valuable stamps

Craft Market

Browse authentic Mauritian handicrafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs created by local artisans in a vibrant market atmosphere

Le Caudan Arts Centre

Explore rotating exhibitions of contemporary Mauritian art and cultural displays showcasing the island's artistic heritage

Harbor Cruise Terminal

Embark on sunset cruises, dolphin watching tours, or catamaran trips to nearby islands from this convenient departure point

Food Court and Restaurants

Savor diverse culinary experiences from street food to fine dining, featuring Mauritian Creole, Indian, Chinese, and international cuisines

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM (shops and restaurants may vary); Museums typically 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tickets & Pricing

Free entry to the waterfront complex; Individual attractions like Blue Penny Museum charge separate admission (around 200-300 MUR for adults)

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon to evening for shopping and dining; Morning for museums and cultural sites; Sunset time for harbor views

Suggested Duration

3-5 hours for comprehensive visit including shopping, dining, and museum visits

Getting There

Caudan Waterfront is located in the heart of Port Louis and easily accessible by various transportation methods. From Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, take a taxi (45-60 minutes) or rent a car for the scenic drive. Public buses from major towns across Mauritius terminate at Port Louis bus station, just a 10-minute walk from the waterfront. If staying in Port Louis hotels, the waterfront is within walking distance of most accommodations. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available from anywhere on the island, and many tour operators include Caudan Waterfront in their Port Louis city tours.

Things to Do Nearby

Central Market (Port Louis Bazaar)
Historic covered market offering spices, textiles, fresh produce, and local street food in an authentic atmosphere
Aapravasi Ghat
UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the location where indentured laborers first arrived in Mauritius
Fort Adelaide (La Citadelle)
British colonial fortress offering panoramic views over Port Louis and the harbor
Jummah Mosque
Beautiful 19th-century mosque showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture in the heart of the capital
Natural History Museum
Learn about Mauritius's unique flora and fauna, including exhibits on the extinct dodo bird

Tips & Advice

Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping and dining experience
Bring sun protection and comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing considerable walking outdoors
Exchange money at the waterfront's banks or ATMs for better rates than tourist shops
Try local street food at the food court but also make reservations at waterfront restaurants for dinner with harbor views
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Central Market and Aapravasi Ghat for a full day of Port Louis exploration
Check the cruise ship schedule as the waterfront can be very busy when large ships are in port
Bargain politely at the craft market but remember that fixed-price stores don't negotiate

Tours & Activities at Caudan Waterfront