The Experience

The Brando Private Island

“My mind is always soothed when I imagine myself sitting on my South Sea island at night. If I have my way, Tetiaroa will remain forever a place that reminds Tahitians of what they are and what they were centuries ago.”Marlon Brando first came to Tetiaroa while filming Mutiny on the Bounty and was immediately enchanted by the island’s rare beauty and the sense it gave him of being closer to paradise. Enthralled by the Polynesian way of life – and the leading lady Tarita, the love of his life – he resolved to find a way to own this piece of paradise and succeeded in his goal in 1967. It was in this natural wonderland that he settled down, and finally found a home.Brando was passionate about preserving Tetiaroa’s natural beauty, biodiversity and cultural richness and was determined to find a way in which it could be a center for research and education and a model of sustainability. He was convinced that this small atoll could bring good to the entire world.

The reef surrounding Tetiaroa and the large and spectacular coral beds in the inner and outer lagoons provide a perfect place for marine life to flourish.  At least 167 fish species have been observed around the atoll, from colorful parrotfish and spotted eagle rays to blacktip sharks and bonefish.  Whales often pause at Tetiaroa  during their annual migrations, and dolphins frequently play off the reef. During the nesting season, large sea turtles come to lay their eggs on the coral sands beneath the trees.

Beautiful tropical birds are found throughout Tetiaroa, but one of the motus, Tahuna Iti or “Bird Island”, is a favorite. Thousands of birds roost here every evening. There are parrots and other land birds, but most are seabirds, including the noddy and the majestic great frigate. Every evening the “permanent residents” are joined by an exodus of birds from Tahiti, which make the short flight across the sea to roost in the safety of the dense vegetation, free from predators.

On the twelve motus there are 38 indigenous plants, six of them very rare. These plants range from very small flowers to the magnificent Puatea, pisonia grandis, rising up to 65 feet in height. It is no surprise that international plant hunters and botanists have organized at least nine expeditions to Tetiaroa since 1921.

Varua Polynesian Spa is a natural haven of serenity nestled on the shores of a soothing pond in the heart of Motu Onetahi. This is the spot on Tetiaroa where the Tahitian royal family retreated to relax and indulge in beauty rituals.

Within this setting you can enjoy the finest holistic treatments inspired by ancient Polynesian traditions coupled with modern techniques. The spa includes private massage and treatment villas around the pond, steam baths, a tea and relaxation lounge overlooking the pond, a yoga shelter and a special spa suite for couples high up in the palm trees.

The resort’s two restaurants showcase Polynesian-inspired dishes, East/West fusion and classic French cuisine. The award-winning cuisine of Guy Martin of the Michelin two star restaurant Le Grand Véfour in Paris is featured in both dining venues and in-room dining.

At all our dining venues you will enjoy the freshest of ingredients. Our chef will select for the day’s dishes organically grown fruits and vegetables from our own gardens and orchards. These may include mangos, papayas, tomatoes, green beans, lettuce, cucumbers, squash, avocados, breadfruit, bananas, limes, watermelon and more. We feature fish and shellfish from Polynesian waters.

Beachcomber Café

Our Beachcomber Café restaurant offers exceptional lagoon and ocean views, whether you decide to dine indoors or on the beach. Dishes include a varied menu of Polynesian-inspired dishes alongside classic French cuisine.

Les Mutinés

This intimate venue features elegant décor in beautiful tones of tropical light and sand and a moat that surrounds the restaurant provides the sensation of floating on a lagoon. The restaurant also includes a world-class wine cellar in a carefully climate-controlled glass enclosure. A menu with the same regard for flavor and quality that has made Le Grand Véfour one of the most respected dining establishments in Paris is showcased.

Te Manu Bar

Located on the second floor, this open-air bar features spectacular views of the lagoon, distant motus and sunsets. In addition to the main lounge, there are several private tree-top seating areas that can be reached on walkways through the palm canopy.

Bob’s Bar

This is a relaxed and casual setting on the beach for conversation and making friends. The bar is named for Marlon Brando’s factotum on film sets. At the end of many days, Brando and Bob would wind up at the bar for long talks and laughs. We have named the bar in honor of Bob and all others who have worked, and continue to work, anonymously to bring Brando’s visions to life.

Room Service

You can enjoy a meal whenever you want, 24 hours a day, at your villa—either indoors, on your private deck alongside your pool, or on the beach in front of your villa.

Rates

All stays at The Brando include:

• luxurious accommodations;
  · all meals in all dining venues (select deluxe items also available at an additional charge);
  · most beverages: bottled water, soft drinks, beer, and select wines, Champagne, and spirits;
  · 24-hour dining in the privacy of your villa;
  · 1 excursion per person per day from a select list of options;
  · 1 spa treatment (50 minutes) for 1 person per villa per day
  1 spa treatment for 1 person per One Bedroom Villa per day,
  1 spa treatment for 2 persons per Two Bedroom Villa per day,
  1 spa treatment for 3 persons for the Three Bedroom Villa per day;
  · internet access;
  · 1 bicycle per guest;
  · access to an outrigger canoe, kayak, and paddleboard; and snorkeling equipment.

All-inclusive Priced from: $ 3120 per night plus tax

All Travelwizard.com Guests Receive:

• Upgrades are not applicable with this participant
• Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests
• 100 EURO Resort or Hotel credit per villa to be utilized during stay (cannot be used at Hinerava Pearl Shop, not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability