Tetiaroa Accommodations

The Brando is a unique luxury resort on French Polynesia’s beautiful private island of Tetiaroa – an atoll composed of a dozen small islands surrounding a sparkling lagoon 30 miles northeast of Tahiti.

The Brando offers carefree luxury in the midst of pristine nature. With access to the island by private plane, the resort features 35 villas on white-sand beaches frequented by sea turtles, manta rays, and exotic birds. The resort was designed to reflect Polynesian lifestyles and culture.

Just 30 miles north of Tahiti, Tetiaroa is a necklace of 12 low-lying motus (islets) framing a gorgeous turquoise lagoon. It can only be reached by helicopter or aboard a seven-seater plane operated by Air Tetiaroa, which departs from a private terminal at Faa’a International Airport. The 15-minute flight costs €298 (£237) return and lands on Motu Onetahi, which is also home to The Brando resort. The rest of the atoll is untouched.

The actor Marlon Brando bought Tetiaroa in 1966 after visiting Tahiti to film Mutiny on the Bounty and spent many happy days there escaping the battlefield of Hollywood. The Brando, which opened in July 2014, seeks to continue his vision that this dream atoll remains pristine – while also offering guests holiday comforts of the highest level. Despite the name, there is little Brando theming and the ambiance is a decided luxe castaway, with nature providing the flamboyance. A high point is the Varua Spa, which is hidden away in the coconut palms and offers sensual Polynesian treatments. Excursions include lagoon tours and visits to the island’s eco-station, and there is a fitness center, tennis court, and watersports.