Taravao

Travel Guide

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

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
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.
"Perfect location to see all of Tahiti. We went to see surfing At Teahupo’o and stayed in this town with a grocery store and restaurants. Once the upstairs kitchen is complete it will be a perfect gem."

Reviewed on 11 Aug, 2024

Te Mana Lodge
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
Lafayette Beach PK7, Arue, Tahiti
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$409 per night from 29 Jun to 30 Jun
S$409
29 Jun - 30 Jun
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this 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! (950 reviews)
"The property is right on the water on a beautiful black sand beach. Easy to navigate and the rooms were super spacious for our family of four. Two story room with gorgeous views."

Reviewed on 26 Jun, 2025

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
Maison Taina
Maison Taina
4 Rue Heirai Vaipoopoo F, Arue, Windward Islands
Stay at this guesthouse in Arue. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Papeete ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (73 reviews)
"Fresh croissants and fruit from the island for breakfast were delicious. Wonderful, kind hosts with fabulous recommendations for our time on the island. Loved every minute of our stay. Only wish it were longer. Such a peaceful and beautiful property."

Reviewed on 25 Jun, 2025

Maison Taina
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.
Bounty Lodge
Bounty Lodge
Bounty Lodge - PK5 - Servitude Paruau, Arue, Îles du Vent
Stay at this vacation home in Arue. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Papeete Market and James Norman Hall Home are located ...
"At first, we wanted to relocate due to the hot condition in our room because this place has no Air condtioning. I believe another fan (two) or a better one will help the issue. We tried to relocate but the owner did point out that the place has no AC, so too late for us to back out. However, it turned ..."

Reviewed on 5 Jul, 2023

Bounty Lodge
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
Moorea Horizon
Moorea Horizon
Rte du Pic Vert, Faaa, Îles du Vent
Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and concierge services. Popular attractions Papeete Market and Fautaua Valley Trailhead are located nearby.
Moorea Horizon
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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