Click HERE to see a map of
Tetiaroa
The Atoll Islands of Tetiaroa are a
beautiful ring of 12 white sand islands, with a shallow lagoon in
the middle, approximately 3 miles across. The atolls have
three things that make them of interest to the overseas
visitors. Firstly, Tetiaroa is the closest Atoll Island to
Tahiti laying just 30 miles north, and a short 20-minute flight
from Tahiti. It's also the home to one of the Pacific's
largest bird sanctuaries, and finally, the island was owned by
the world famous actor Marlon Brando.
Historically, Tetiaroa was a sacred
spot for Polynesians, and was a refuge for the historic Royal
families. In 1904, the Royal family gave the atoll islands to
Dr Johnston Williams, the only dentist in Tahiti and later to
become the Consul for England. The atoll stayed in his family
for several generations until is was sold to the Hollywood actor,
Marlon Brando, in 1966.
Marlon Brando fell in love with
French Polynesia when he was making the film Mutiny on the Bounty,
which was filmed in the Society Islands in 1965. He purchased
most of the atolls in 1966, from direct descendants of Dr Williams,
and then bought the rest in 1967. After much discussion with
the local Government and local population, he was allowed to build
a small village, consisting of 12 huts, a dining hall and bar and a
kitchen hut, all built from locally found materials, including
coconut wood, palm thatched roofs and even giant sea shells for
sinks. He was very keen to reduce the enviromental impact,
and tried not to import anything if he didn't have to. He
also built a small airstrip, as getting to the islands by boat was
almost impossible, due to there being no breaks in the coral reef
surrounding the atoll.
Tetiaroa offers a back to nature
experience and would be ideal for those travellers who are looking
for a deserted island, sand between the toes interlude, but with
luxurious facilities and services. The Tetiaroa Village
boutique hotel, initially built by Brando, was updated as a luxury
5 star 'Eco' hotel, named 'The Brando' in homage to the actor who
made the atoll his second home. but still offering quiet solitude
and natural beauty of the atolls.
For more information on
accommodation or to make a booking to Tetiaroa, please contact our
Reservations Team.