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
The price is S$244 per night from 28 Nov to 29 Nov
S$244
28 Nov - 29 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this guesthouse in Taiarapu-Est. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden. Popular attractions Mitirapa Beach and Motu Nono are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Very nice welcoming host, located at a very nice, quiet bay area.

Reviewed on 21 Oct, 2025

Te Mana Lodge
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

4 out of 5
Lafayette Beach PK7 Arue Tahiti
The price is S$525 per night from 6 Dec to 7 Dec
S$525
6 Dec - 7 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Arue. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (999 reviews)
Clean but ready for some updating. Staff was great.

Reviewed on 19 Nov, 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 Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (86 reviews)
This was our favorite location on the island of Tahiti. The hosts were friendly and helpful and the lodging was very comfortable, with A/C, a very nice pool, and a lovely breakfast served by the host. It was probably the best value of any place we rented during our trip. If i ever return to Tahiti ...

Reviewed on 17 Oct, 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.
Moorea Horizon

Moorea Horizon

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

Bounty Lodge

Bounty Lodge - PK5 - Servitude Paruau Arue Îles du Vent
Stay at this holiday home in Arue. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 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 - Vaiava Beach Cottage

Tahiti - Vaiava Beach Cottage

Punaauia Punaauia
Stay at this holiday home in Punaauia. Enjoy a garden. Popular attractions Vai'ava Beach and Mahana Park are located nearby.
Tahiti - Vaiava Beach Cottage
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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