From the perspective of behavior, the study combines multi-agent simulation and measurement index system for the waterfront area. Connecting with the waterfront space characteristics, the study combines spatial, behavioral and correlation measurement indexes to form the measurement dimensions of access-efficiency, stay-comfort and water-friendliness. Based on literature research and behavior simulation output characteristics, the study initially constructs an index system for measuring the quality of public space in urban waterfront, with a total of 18 measuring indexes. 6 typical waterfront sections along the Huangpu River are selected as samples and the indexes of each period are output through the behavior simulation model based on the Anylogic. Through the extraction of the mean value, maximum value and minimum value, an urban waterfront public space measurement index system suitable for the Huangpu River in Shanghai is finally formed. By measuring different samples and normalizing the results, it is found that stay-comfort is the most important index, while access-efficiency and water-friendliness are of less importance. The study proposes a comprehensive measurement index system from behavioral needs, which forms a more accurate and intelligent index for analyzing waterfront areas in three dimensions. In addition, based on user's recreational behavior, a dynamic measurement method is developed to provide a more efficient quantitative reference for the identification and optimization of weakness in urban waterfront.