Taravao

Travel Guide

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

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 P9,375 per night from Nov 23 to Nov 24
P9,375
P11,063 total
Nov 23 - Nov 24
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.
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Very nice welcoming host, located at a very nice, quiet bay area.

Reviewed on Oct 21, 2025

Te Mana Lodge
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

4 out of 5
Lafayette Beach PK7 Arue Tahiti
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P19,588 per night from Nov 24 to Nov 25
P19,588
P23,850 total
Nov 24 - Nov 25
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! (998 reviews)
I can not say enough good things about Le Tahiti by Pearl. We loved the location on a black sand beach, the property grounds including the pool, the restaurant with its shows, the spacious and clean rooms with a large balcony facing the ocean, and the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff. We ...

Reviewed on Oct 22, 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! (85 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 Oct 17, 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 WiFi, 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 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 Jul 5, 2023

Bounty Lodge
Tahiti - Matavai Bay Cottage

Tahiti - Matavai Bay Cottage

Arue Arue
Stay at this apartment in Arue. Enjoy a garden. Popular attractions Papeete Market and James Norman Hall Home 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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