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
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
An unusual night on a sailboat
An unusual night on a sailboat
taravao
The price is £146 per night from 9 Jul to 10 Jul
£146
9 Jul - 10 Jul
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
Lafayette Beach PK7, Arue, Tahiti
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £233 per night from 30 Jun to 1 Jul
£233
30 Jun - 1 Jul
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. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (949 reviews)
"Wonderful signature room! Hot tub was exceptional!"

Reviewed on 20 Jun 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
Large villa Le Ficus by the sea with swimming pool
Large villa Le Ficus by the sea with swimming pool
PAEA, Îles du Vent
Stay at this family-friendly holiday home in Paea. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, private pools and a garden. Popular attractions Maraa Cave and Punaauia Beach are located ...
Amazing Visit!
"Christelle was a super host! She was extremely responsive to our questions before and during our trip. The house was perfect for our family. Easy access to the lagoon and snorkeling. It was so nice and fully equipped that our family preferred to eat on the outdoor patio rather than go to the restaurants. ..."

Reviewed on 4 Jan 2025

Large villa Le Ficus by the sea with swimming pool
Manava Tahara'a home stay
Manava Tahara'a home stay
Mahina, Windward Islands
Stay at this apartment in Mahina. Enjoy private pools, a garden and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Papeete Market and Port de Papeete are located ...
Great!
"David was very kind and helpful! The property was great. Loved the pool. No a/c but able to open windows and get a decent cross breeze. About 25 minutes from the airport and in the country side. Very peaceful and calm setting. Would recommend renting a vehicle to get back and forth as taxi is about ..."

Reviewed on 9 Dec 2024

Manava Tahara'a home stay
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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