Port-Vila Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips

Port-Vila Shopping

Port-Vila is the capital of the island nation of Vanuatu. When not exploring the capital’s local culture or swimming, shopping is a great way to interact with locals and take home local crafts.

Shopping here is a delight for the senses. The markets also make it easy to find what you need and special items.

Port-Vila Market

This is one of the most popular outdoor markets in the area. It’s open on for shoppers on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and has the best bargains, so haggling isn’t appropriate. This is also a great place to get lunch: pick from rows of flavorful coconut crabs, tropical fruits, and vegetables, and then find flowers and colorful shells to take with you. You’ll also discover many local artifacts and souvenir stalls. If you get here early, enjoy the aroma of brewed coffee and freshly baked pastries.

Vanuatu Handicraft Market

This is a great option if you are visiting the island via cruise ship. It’s a short walk from the port area and an easy place to stop off on your way to the rest of the town. You’ll find handicrafts both from the locals and from islands all over the Pacific. Shop for dresses you can wear home made from locally grown fabrics in bright colors, art that’s been carved in the Solomon Islands, tightly woven baskets and masks, and canvas paintings. There are also other kinds of items such as carved coconut shells that can easily fit into your suitcase. Jewelry made from local materials and even high quality pearls sell here at higher price points. The market is covered, and a good place to shop in the rain.

Duty-Free Shopping

Port-Vila is one of the best places in the Pacific to find duty-free items to bring home. Items that tend to have lower prices than the surrounding areas including alcohol and cigarettes. Many people recommend bringing Australian dollars rather than the local currency as you can get more for your money that way. The American dollar is also widely accepted. Designer items like shoes and handbags are popular at the duty free shops.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about shopping in Port-Vila, Vanuatu.