Taravao Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes a cascade
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi featuring a waterfall
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi which includes wild flowers
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi showing tropical scenes
The Water Gardens of Vaipahi showing 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 NZ$331 per night from 28 Nov to 29 Nov
NZ$331
28 Nov - 29 Nov
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 21 Oct 2025

Te Mana Lodge
An unusual night on a sailboat

An unusual night on a sailboat

taravao
The price is NZ$352 per night from 27 Nov to 28 Nov
NZ$352
27 Nov - 28 Nov
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 NZ$713 per night from 18 Nov to 19 Nov
NZ$713
18 Nov - 19 Nov
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! (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 22 Oct 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
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
Maruapo Guest House - Ocean View

Maruapo Guest House - Ocean View

Punaauia
Stay at this apartment in Punaauia. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Vai'ava Beach and Plage Toaroto are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
The view from the room was beautiful! Great location to everything there is to do in Tahiti!

Reviewed on 15 Oct 2025

Maruapo Guest House - Ocean View
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.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Cities near Taravao