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
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 11 Aug. 2024

Te Mana Lodge
An unusual night on a sailboat

An unusual night on a sailboat

taravao
The price is NZ$327 per night from 5 Aug to 6 Aug
NZ$327
5 Aug - 6 Aug
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 refundable
The price is NZ$805 per night from 29 July to 30 July
NZ$805
29 July - 30 July
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! (969 reviews)
"Staff was awesome. Resort was beautiful. Amazing sunsets from balcony"

Reviewed on 23 Jul. 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
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Paea. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Maraa Cave and Punaauia Beach are ...
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
Tahiti beach house, 3 bedrooms with AC, family friendly

Tahiti beach house, 3 bedrooms with AC, family friendly

Arue
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Arue. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Papeete Market and Port de Papeete are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (34 reviews)
Great quiet place to stay.
"Very clean and peaceful. Backyard right on the beach was so relaxing. Beautiful and Shady. Nice hosts.The only negative was having a solar powered water heater so most of our showers were cold. Especially if you like morning showers. You need to shower when the sun is shining."

Reviewed on 1 Jul. 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.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Cities near Taravao