Taravao

Travel Guide

The Water Gardens of Vaipahi showing a waterfall
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes a waterfall
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi showing wildflowers
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes tropical scenes
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring a river or creek, forests 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 ¥21,684 per night from Oct 14 to Oct 15
¥21,684
¥25,973 total
Oct 14 - Oct 15
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.
"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 Aug 11, 2024

Te Mana Lodge
An unusual night on a sailboat

An unusual night on a sailboat

taravao
The price is ¥26,036 per night from Oct 14 to Oct 15
¥26,036
¥29,160 total
Oct 14 - Oct 15
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 ¥43,687 per night from Oct 26 to Oct 27
¥43,687
¥53,616 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
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! (1,002 reviews)
"Everithing was just perfect, I even get an upgrade!!"

Reviewed on Sep 22, 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
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 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 Jul 5, 2023

Bounty Lodge
Bungalow in Mahina, Ahonu Valley

Bungalow in Mahina, Ahonu Valley

MAHINA
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Mahina. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Pointe Venus Lighthouse and Point ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (13 reviews)
Loved our stay
"Calm and peaceful stay at the cottage nestled in Mahina valley. Nice pool to swim and play in. Located along a calm stream. Loved listening to the rain at night, and the stream during the day. Serge was a gracious and accommodating host, who we enjoyed meeting. Would love to come back again!"

Reviewed on Jul 14, 2025

Bungalow in Mahina, Ahonu Valley
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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