Taravao Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

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

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 Rp2.630.417 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
Rp2.630.417
Rp3.103.892 total
24 Aug - 25 Aug
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.
"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

4 out of 5
Lafayette Beach PK7, Arue, Tahiti
The price is Rp6.447.922 per night from 2 Sept to 3 Sept
Rp6.447.922
Rp7.785.754 total
2 Sept - 3 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star 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 ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (985 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 21 Aug 2025

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
Vanira Lodge

Vanira Lodge

PK 15.6, Taiarapu-Ouest, Tahiti
Stay at this lodge in Taiarapu-Ouest. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the property condition in their reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (130 reviews)
"We had a wonderful stay! The Ma"

Reviewed on 11 Jul 2025

Vanira Lodge
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.
Tahiti - Fare Vainato Beach

Tahiti - Fare Vainato Beach

Punaauia, Punaauia
Stay at this holiday home in Punaauia. Enjoy a garden. Popular attractions Vai'ava Beach and Mahana Park are located nearby.
Tahiti - Fare Vainato Beach
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 Port de Papeete 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 - Matavai Bay Cottage

Tahiti - Matavai Bay Cottage

Arue
Stay at this apartment in Arue. Enjoy a garden. Popular attractions Papeete Market and Port de Papeete are located nearby.
Tahiti - Matavai Bay 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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