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
$131 nightly
The price is $156 total per night from Jan 12 to Jan 13
$156 total
Jan 12 - Jan 13, 2026
Total with taxes and 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! (6 reviews)
Had no breakfast. Nice property, comfortable rooms, very nice host, good location

Reviewed on Dec 14, 2025

Te Mana Lodge
An unusual night on a sailboat

An unusual night on a sailboat

taravao
$199 nightly
The price is $199 total per night from Jan 2 to Jan 3
$199 total
Jan 2 - Jan 3, 2026
Total with taxes and 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
$354 nightly
The price is $411 total per night from Jan 12 to Jan 13
$411 total
Jan 12 - Jan 13, 2026
Total with taxes and 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! (999 reviews)
Nice location, spacious well-appointed room

Reviewed on Dec 14, 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
VILLA KOKU'U with private pool on the Taravao Plateau

VILLA KOKU'U with private pool on the Taravao Plateau

TARAVAO TAHITI
Stay at this villa in Taiarapu-Est. Enjoy private pools and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Mitirapa Beach and Motu Nono are located nearby.
VILLA KOKU'U with private pool on the Taravao Plateau
Tahiti beach house, 3 bedrooms with AC, family friendly

Tahiti beach house, 3 bedrooms with AC, family friendly

Arue Windward Islands
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Arue. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Papeete Market and James Norman Hall Home ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (36 reviews)
Convenience of booking van with house was awesome. Along with pick up and drop off at airport. Hosts were friendly, helpful and accommodated to all pur 20 questions and booked our trip to Moorea which was the highlight of our trip. Was raining most of the time for our trip but didn't stop us sight ...

Reviewed on Oct 25, 2025

Tahiti beach house, 3 bedrooms with AC, family friendly
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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