The Brando: A Remote Island Paradise of Unrivaled Luxury
by Jeff Hood, Senior Luxury Travel Advisor
Updated in March 2025
We all seek that one destination that leaves us breathless—the place that checks every box on our lifetime travel list, feels completely removed from the world, and captivates all the senses. Meet The Brando, Tahiti’s first ultra-inclusive luxury resort, set on the idyllic Tetiaroa Atoll.
Once a retreat for Tahitian royalty and later the private sanctuary of Marlon Brando, this exclusive paradise is recognized by National Geographic as one of the ‘Unique Lodges of the World.’ Just a 20-minute private flight from Papeete, Tahiti, you arrive at one of the most extraordinary resorts on earth.
A Sanctuary of Seclusion & Style
I was fortunate to spend three magical nights in this breathtaking French Polynesian oasis. The resort comprises 35 secluded villas, each designed for ultimate privacy and sophistication. Calling them ‘ultra-chic’ is an understatement—these architecturally stunning retreats blend seamlessly with their pristine surroundings.
Each villa features:
Expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces
Infinity plunge pools with panoramic ocean views
State-of-the-art media rooms
Elegant bathrooms with outdoor soaking tubs
Direct beach access for sunrise snorkeling
Getting around the island is effortless—simply hop on a bicycle waiting outside your villa or request a buggy for a seamless ride across this tropical haven.
Culinary Excellence in Paradise
The Brando’s two world-class dining venues are a gastronomic revelation, thanks to the resort’s acclaimed French chef and on-site organic gardens and orchards. The menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring an ever-fresh, farm-to-table dining experience.
Here, "no" is not in the vocabulary—whatever you desire, the chefs will create. Prefer to wake up to breakfast in your private outdoor haven? It’s effortlessly arranged.
For a relaxed evening, sip cocktails at one of two inviting lounges, including the iconic Bob’s Bar, where the signature "Dirty Old Bob" cocktail is best enjoyed with toes in the sand. Guests can also partake in cocktail-making classes and curated wine tastings, elevating their mixology skills in true island style.
A Playground for Families & Adventurers
For families, The Brando offers a wealth of activities to entertain children of all ages, from snorkeling excursions to engaging educational programs. Between November and April, guests can even swim alongside sea turtles.
Other island highlights include:
The Ultimate Tour of the Atoll – Explore the untouched beauty of neighboring islets.
A Visit to the Natural “River” – Indulge in a wild sulfur scrub experience.
Tracking the Elusive Coconut Crab – A thrilling adventure (be warned, they’re surprisingly large and startlingly fast!).
For those seeking pure rejuvenation, the resort’s spa is a destination in itself. Indulge in the signature Coconut Oil Massage after unwinding in the Bird’s Nest Steam Room, where traditional Polynesian wellness rituals meet unparalleled luxury.
Sustainability Meets Uncompromising Luxury
Beyond its ultra-luxury offerings, The Brando is a model for sustainable tourism. The resort’s deep commitment to environmental preservation is reflected in its use of eco-technologies, including SWAC (Salt Water Air Conditioning), which harnesses water from 3,000 feet below the surface to naturally cool the property.
A Destination Beyond Words
As I reflect on my time at The Brando, words fail to fully capture its magic. Perhaps Marlon Brando said it best:
“Tetiaroa is beautiful beyond my capacity to describe. One could say that Tetiaroa is the tincture of the South Seas.”
I couldn’t agree more. If you seek the pinnacle of private island luxury, it’s time to experience The Brando, Tetiaroa’s ultimate sanctuary.