Vaipahi Water Gardens

The Jardins d'Eau de Vaipahi at Mataiea are laid out around a stream and a small waterfall on the southern coast, planted with tropical species along paths and ponds, and they are free and well kept. Behind them a network of walking trails climbs into the hills, ranging from a short loop to routes of a few hours with views over the lagoon. The site is a standard stop on the round-island road.

Highlights

• The waterfall - the fall the gardens are laid out around.
• The planted paths - tropical species along the streams and ponds.
• The hill trails - marked routes climbing behind the garden.
• The lagoon views - the coast seen from the higher paths.

When to go

May to October is the dry season and best for the trails. The garden is open daily and free. Weekends bring local visitors.

What to expect

The trails behind are muddy and slippery for much of the year. The garden itself is small and the visit is short unless the walks are done. There are few facilities.

Nearby

Mataiea is on the coast, and Papeete is northwest.