Kavieng Rights

Kavieng Rights is one of Papua New Guinea’s best-known surf breaks, located off Kavieng in New Ireland Province. It’s a right-hand reef break that can deliver fast, long, and hollow waves, making it a favorite for experienced surfers looking for quality tropical surf in a relatively remote setting.

What it’s like

• Wave type: Right-hand reef break
• Best swell: It tends to work best with south to southwest swell
• Wind: Usually likes light offshore winds, often from the east/northeast depending on the swell direction
• Wave quality: Can offer clean, barreling sections and longer rides when conditions line up
• Skill level: Generally best for intermediate to advanced surfers, especially when it’s bigger or working with more power

Conditions and access

• The break is in a warm, tropical reef environment
• It can be crowded less often than more famous Indonesian breaks, partly because of its remote location
• Access is usually based from Kavieng town, with boat transport commonly used to reach the wave

Best time to surf

• The main surf season is generally during the southern hemisphere winter months, when swell from the Southern Ocean is more consistent
• Local conditions can vary, so timing around swell direction, tide, and wind is important

Things to keep in mind

• It’s a reef break, so reef awareness is important
• Water patrol and rescue infrastructure may be limited
• Local customs and access arrangements should be respected