Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
The Brando
Sleep With the Fishes
What it is
A beyond-exclusive tropical getaway on Marlon Brando’s private atoll.
What it isn't
Inexpensive. The resort may be all-inclusive, but prices are godfather-level.
What we think
Marlon Brando purchased Tetiaroa Atoll in 1967 while filming “Mutiny on the Bounty,” with visions of turning it into a resort whose luxuries would be self-sustaining. Ten years after the actor’s death, his dream finally came true. The Brando sits on the southwestern motus (islet) of the lagoon and is the only property on the private atoll. The 35 villas, each with its own private beach, is powered by solar energy and coconut oil and cooled using seawater. They are beautifully decked out with varnished wood floors, thatched roofs, private dining areas and plunge pools. The all-inclusive rate includes food (dishes were designed by Chef Guy Martin, of Paris’s Le Grand Véfour), drinks (Champagne included, natch), activities (cycling, whale-watching, visits to a nearby bird sanctuary or shark nursery) and spa treatments. It’s all exclusive and eco-luxe enough to attract A Listers, like President Obama, who made it one of his first stops after handing over the keys to the White House.
You're here because
You may not be as reclusive as Brando himself, but you want to experience the tranquility of one of the world’s last truly deserted paradises—preferably with a flute of champagne.
The Moment
The sun has never left during your voyage across the lagoon from your villa to the deserted Auroa islet. Achorus of birds regaling your arrival, you beach your paddleboards a few paces from the lapping water and head to the islet’s far side. There, as you look out over the Pacific Ocean, a huge geyser-like spout cuts through the water’s surface: a humpback whale!
Restaurants & Bars
Beachcomber Café - Polynesian-inspired dishes alongside classic French cuisine
Les Mutinés by Guy Martin - East/West fusion and classic French cuisine
Te Manu Bar - open-air bar with spectacular views of the lagoon
Bob's Bar - casual beachside bar
Location
On the stunning Tetiaroa Atoll, a 15-minute flight from Tahiti Fa’a’a international airport. The atoll’s other islands are deserted, though guests are free to explore as they please.