Taravao

Travel Guide

The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes a cascade
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring a waterfall
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring wildflowers
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes tropical scenes
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi showing a waterfall, forest scenes 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 RM617 per night from 17 Mar to 18 Mar
RM617
RM728 total
17 Mar - 18 Mar
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! (6 reviews)
Had no breakfast. Nice property, comfortable rooms, very nice host, good location

Reviewed on 14 Dec 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 RM1,655 per night from 17 Mar to 18 Mar
RM1,655
RM1,991 total
17 Mar - 18 Mar
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. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
Didn’t go to spa

Reviewed on 14 Mar 2026

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
Sublime Tahiti Beach Retreat

Sublime Tahiti Beach Retreat

PK 50.5, côté mer, BP 16003 Teva I Uta
Stay at this beach guesthouse in Teva I Uta. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a beach locale and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Harrison Smith Botanical Garden ...
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Beautiful property with very nice bungalows. Well situated to explore the Island - I’d recommend that you rent a car or other vehicle to get there and explore places like Teahupo’o. The staff was also very friendly and helpful.

Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026

Sublime Tahiti Beach Retreat
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 a garden. Popular attractions Papeete Market and Port de Papeete 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.

Popular places to visit

Things to do