Lavanono Left is a surf spot located in a remote village that has become quite popular among surfers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Most surfers travel from Fort-Dauphin to reach this spot, and they typically stay for a while to enjoy the waves. It’s a quieter place, meaning you’re likely to have plenty of space in the water. The vibe here is laid-back, and the local community has embraced surfers, making it a welcoming spot for those passing through.
The waves at Lavanono Left are primarily lefts breaking over dead coral. The best swell direction is from the Southwest, but it also handles swells from the Southeast. Overall, it can work well with swell sizes around 2 feet (approximately 0.6 meters). The wave tends to start with long, fast walls that may get a bit choppy due to side shore winds before bending into a hollow, offshore end bowl section. While the bowl can be shallow, it usually offers flat spots covered in kelp. It's generally better to surf here at all tide heights, but you might find some longer rights breaking inside the reef during smaller swells and low tides. This spot is suitable for intermediate surfers looking for some fun waves.
Beyond just the waves, Lavanono Left offers a unique surfing experience that’s tied closely to the local culture. The village kids often take turns riding shorter boards on the nearby reform left, and the locals keep an eye out, calling out warnings when sets come through. A local surf camp run by a Reunion-based surfer has also popped up, providing a place for tired surfers to relax after a day in the water. Overall, it’s a spot that combines decent waves with an authentic Malagasy experience.