Nusa Left (Karanas)
Nusa Left—also known as Karanas—is Kavieng's premier left-hand wave, a fast barreling tube that jacks out of deep water and immediately pitches over shallow reef. The wave offers a unique setup where you're floating in comfortable depth until suddenly dropping into a heavy, draining barrel that demands quick feet and confidence. Accessed by boat from Kavieng or the legendary Lissenung Island, Nusa Left delivers the goods when west swells hit the New Ireland coast. For surfers seeking uncrowded perfection in one of the world's most remote surf destinations, this is PNG at its finest.
Nusa Left (Karanas) surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Direction range
- 240° - 300°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1m
- Danger below
- 0.2m
Water temp
29°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Boat from Kavieng or Lissenung Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Nusa Left (Karanas)?
The Nusa Left (Karanas) profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session. The profile flags a low-tide hazard below 0.2m.
What wind direction is offshore at Nusa Left (Karanas)?
The Nusa Left (Karanas) profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Nusa Left (Karanas)?
The Nusa Left (Karanas) scoring profile favors swell from W (240° to 300°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Nusa Left (Karanas)?
The main season at Nusa Left (Karanas) is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. Nov-Apr season. Reliable barrelling left.
How do I get to Nusa Left (Karanas)?
The spot profile lists KVG as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $100 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Boat from Kavieng or Lissenung Island.
What kind of wave is Nusa Left (Karanas)?
Nusa Left (Karanas) is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Nov-Apr season. Reliable barrelling left.
Getting There
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