Taravao

Travel Guide

The Water Gardens of Vaipahi showing a waterfall
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring a cascade
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes wild flowers
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring tropical scenes
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring a waterfall, a river or creek and forests

Follow in the footsteps of one of the Beatles in the picturesque and peaceful water gardens and explore this quaint town.

Taravao is known for its spectacular water gardens and scenic countryside. The town stands on the Taravao Plateau, which is adorned with countless fields used for the breeding of cows. Enjoy the serene ambiance and excellent views in this lush green setting.

Explore the central hub of the town and chat with locals for a glimpse into the culture. See the hall, the post office and schools among many other structures. The town also has a temple and the Church of the Sacred Heart of Mary of Taravao, which has an unusual façade with intricate patterns. The town is developing, with a hospital and two banks.

Venture out into the sprawling countryside for the long grasses of green fields with grazing cattle. Capture photos of the views of the valleys of Tahiti Nui, which is the larger section of the island, from the Taravao Plateau. Expect a warm and pleasant climate year-round, with the rainy season taking over from November to April. August is the driest time of the year.

Among the highlights of Taravao’s countryside is the Water Gardens of VaipahiOpens in a new window. Read informational plaques to learn about some of its 75 species of tropical plants. Stroll along the paths to see the ponds and streams of this serene and picturesque 2.5-acre (1-hectare) garden. Beatles’ guitarist George Harrison allegedly spent time here in the 1960s.

Find the town of Taravao in the southeastern corner of the larger Tahiti Nui part of the island. It is a 1-hour drive southeast from the Faa’a International Airport, which is near the capital city of PapeeteOpens in a new window. Visit nearby landmarks and regions, such as the smaller Tahiti Iti eastern peninsula.

Taravao offers an intriguing insight into local culture, with a picturesque backdrop.

Te Mana Lodge

Te Mana Lodge

PK 1.1 côté mer, Taiarapu-Est, Windward Islands
The price is €162 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
€162
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this guesthouse in Taiarapu-Est. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Mitirapa Beach and Motu Nono are located nearby.
Te Mana Lodge
An unusual night on a sailboat

An unusual night on a sailboat

taravao
The price is €176 per night from 3 Sept to 4 Sept
€176
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this houseboat in Taiarapu-Est. Popular attractions Mitirapa Beach and Motu Nono are located nearby.
An unusual night on a sailboat
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

4 out of 5
Lafayette Beach PK7, Arue, Tahiti
The price is €406 per night from 10 Sept to 11 Sept
€406
10 Sept - 11 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Arue. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (985 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 21 Aug 2025

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
An unusual night on a sailboat

An unusual night on a sailboat

taravao
Stay at this houseboat in Taiarapu-Est. Popular attractions Mitirapa Beach and Motu Nono are located nearby.
An unusual night on a sailboat
Tahiti - Fare Vainato Beach

Tahiti - Fare Vainato Beach

Punaauia
Stay at this vacation home in Punaauia. Enjoy a garden. Popular attractions Vai'ava Beach and Mahana Park are located nearby.
Tahiti - Fare Vainato Beach
Large villa Le Ficus by the sea with swimming pool

Large villa Le Ficus by the sea with swimming pool

PAEA
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Paea. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Maraa Cave and Punaauia Beach are ...
Large villa Le Ficus by the sea with swimming pool
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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