Tetiaroa emerged as a volcano three million years ago, like Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, and in the past it was a retreat for Tahitian royalty. Marlon Brando first saw it on a hike in Tahiti while filming Mutiny on the Bounty in the early 1960s. The Tetiaroa Society looks after the atoll, in partnership with the resort and the Brando Family Trust, and its guides lead excursions on the atoll.
The villas stand on the Onetahi motu just off the beach. Doors fold open into breezeways, and the architecture joins traditional materials with modern design and insulation. Every villa has an outdoor lounge, a covered dining area and an infinity plunge pool, and the family villas have separate bedrooms with adjacent twin beds for children. The largest villas have a primary bedroom on the second level with a private study. The Brando was the first resort in the world to receive LEED Platinum certification, and buildings cool with seawater and run on solar panels.
The kitchen blends Polynesian flavours with classical French technique, under a chef whose career includes the Plaza Athénée, Maison Christian Dior, Cheval Blanc St-Barth and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Bob's Bar, Nami Teppanyaki, the Beachcomber Cafe, Te Manu Bar and Les Mutinés are the places to eat and drink, and private dinners can be arranged.
The Varua Te Ora Polynesian Spa winds along raised paths through the undergrowth, with Fare Mana for meditation, yoga and sound baths and Fare Manu, the bird house, for couples. Days go to kayaking, diving, guided walks, learning to make art from palm fronds, and watching green turtles nest.
The resort suits families and couples who want an atoll to themselves, and children under 12 stay, dine and play free on some offers.
