Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden
A free, sprawling tropical paradise in Tahiti, featuring hundreds of exotic plants, serene wetlands, and stunning ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, sprawling tropical paradise in Tahiti, featuring hundreds of exotic plants, serene wetlands, and stunning ocean views.
"This was well worth the stop! It was free admission. There are vendors at the entrance selling chips and drinks."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this tropical paradise without any cost. Perfect for budget travelers!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lush Tropical Flora
Wander through hundreds of exotic plant and flower varieties, a true feast for the senses.
Wetlands and Mangrove Trails
Discover serene wetlands and explore enchanting mangrove paths, offering a unique jungle-like experience.
Waterfront Views
Enjoy stunning views of the ocean and Tahiti Iti from the garden's amazing waterfront location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Explore the Tropical Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this tropical paradise without any cost. Perfect for budget travelers!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds.
🎒 Pack Light
Backpacks and bags are allowed, but keep it manageable for your stroll.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Vendors sell drinks at the entrance, or bring your own water bottle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this tropical paradise without any cost. Perfect for budget travelers!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds.
🎒 Pack Light
Backpacks and bags are allowed, but keep it manageable for your stroll.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Vendors sell drinks at the entrance, or bring your own water bottle.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Plenty of photo opportunities with exotic plants and scenic views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden for its stunning tropical beauty and, most notably, its free admission. It's praised as a relaxing and expansive place perfect for family strolls, with beautiful waterfront views and engaging wetland paths. Some find it less captivating than other nearby gardens, but still consider it a worthwhile stop for its natural charm.
"This was well worth the stop! It was free admission. There are vendors at the entrance selling chips and drinks. We parked on the street but had no problem finding a spot. Sometimes waves of crowds can come in from the tour buses. You can bring backpacks and bags in. It's nice scenery to take in and read about the Tahitian legends. Enjoy!"
Emily
"Really lovely and free! We (2 adults + 3 kids) spent ~70 minutes here. We did the big loop comfortably, lots of shade, and the paths were great for the running stroller. The wetlands section was excellent, great path through the trees. Amazing waterfront location. There is also a park over looking the water with restrooms which was a great finish. Really glad we did this and the kids enjoyed it."
Michael Waite
"This place is huge, definitely recommend for a relaxing walk outdoors similar to the water gardens nearby, I found this place a little less interesting than those, but still worth the stop if you are roaming around the island.
You can walk a lot if you choose the long circuit, but everything is flat so is friendly for all ages, there's even a big grass field by the sea if you want to just sit and enjoy the view."
Carlos Calvillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located in Papeari, Tahiti. While specific public transport details are scarce, many visitors arrive by car or as part of island tours. Street parking is often available, and there's a larger parking area after passing the main gate.
Yes, there is parking available. Visitors mention street parking and a larger lot inside the garden after the entrance. +1
The paths are generally good, with one reviewer mentioning they were great for a running stroller. The terrain is mostly flat, making it friendly for all ages.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden is completely free! This makes it a highly accessible and popular attraction.
The garden is typically open from 7 AM to 5 PM daily. It's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or special closures.
Yes, you can bring backpacks and bags into the garden. Vendors at the entrance also sell chips and drinks.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 70 minutes to an hour exploring the garden, especially families with children. You can do a big loop comfortably within this time.
The garden features hundreds of varieties of tropical plants, flowers, and exotic trees, including palm trees, coconut trees, and water lilies.
Visitors can explore wetlands, mangrove trails, and enjoy waterfront views. There's also a large grass field by the sea for relaxation.
Absolutely! Kids often enjoy the jungle-like atmosphere and the open spaces. The paths are stroller-friendly, and there's plenty to discover.
Yes, the garden offers a nice scenery to take in and read about Tahitian legends, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush tropical flora, serene wetlands, mangrove trails, and ocean views provide numerous stunning photo opportunities. The waterfront location and exotic plants are particularly photogenic.
Information regarding drone usage is not readily available. It's best to check with garden management directly before flying a drone to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for about 70 minutes to explore the main loop, which offers plenty of shade and interesting sights. The wetlands section is particularly engaging for children, providing a sense of adventure. Don't forget to enjoy the waterfront park area with restrooms for a convenient end to your visit.
🚶 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect spot for a cost-effective day out, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful escape. The ease of access and lack of an entry fee make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Tahiti's natural beauty without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tropical Oasis in Tahiti
+1Visitors often describe the experience as feeling like an expedition into the jungle, with lush vegetation creating an immersive atmosphere. The garden is renowned for its serene wetlands and enchanting mangrove trails, offering a unique perspective on the local ecosystem. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and appreciate the vibrant biodiversity of Polynesia.
+1Beyond the plant collections, the garden boasts stunning waterfront views, overlooking the ocean and the picturesque Tahiti Iti. This makes it not only a botanical marvel but also a place of immense natural beauty and tranquility. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden offers a memorable experience.
Exploring the Garden's Layout and Features
A significant highlight is the wetlands section, which features an excellent path winding through the trees, offering a unique and immersive experience. Many visitors also appreciate the mangrove areas, which contribute to the garden's wild and exotic feel.
For those looking to relax and soak in the scenery, there's a large grass field by the sea, perfect for enjoying the view or having a quiet moment. The garden also offers insights into Tahitian legends, adding a cultural layer to the natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit