Tetiaroa will always have a special place in the heart of anyone who visits. This coral island in the heart of the Society Islands is a veritable haven of peace for birdlife, sea turtles and all sorts of marine life. An island paradise for lovers of nature in a stunningly beautiful setting.

What makes it so special

Why Visit Tetiaroa?

An unforgettable atoll © Tahiti Fly Shoot

A magical atoll, so close to Tahiti

Just a few minutes from Papeete by plane, Tetiaroa is one of the jewels of French Polynesia. The atoll is just over 3 square miles and composed of 13 motu.

It is an important bird sanctuary where several species come to lay their eggs and nurture their young. The soft white sandy beaches and crystal clear water in the lagoon rival even the most splendid atolls in the Tuamotu Islands.

Tetiaroa by catamaran
Birdwatching in Tetiaroa © Lei Tao

A haven of peace for birds and a paradise for nature lovers

Soft white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and breathtakingly beautiful natural surroundings, make Tetiaroa the perfect place to unwind and recharge your batteries. The island is also an important reproduction site for birds and sea turtles, which makes it an ideal destination for all lovers of nature.

A luxury hotel on the atoll, The Brando, is engaged in environmental preservation and offers 5-star accommodation in this quiet corner of paradise.

Discover bird island in Tetiaroa

« My mind is always soothed when I imagine myself sitting on my South Sea island at night »

Marlon Brando

Things to do in Tetiaroa

Tetiaroa © Tahiti Fly Shoot

Explore Bird Island

Bird Island, one of Tetiaroa’s motus (islets), is a sanctuary for numerous seabird species. This protected area provides a unique opportunity to witness birds in their natural habitat. From the graceful frigatebirds to the Masked Booby passing by the Great crested Tern, Bird Island is a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers alike.

Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the island’s ecosystem and the efforts to preserve its biodiversity. Remember to bring your  camera to capture the breathtaking sights. The tranquil ambiance of Bird Island also makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and connect with the environment.

Tetiaroa

Snorkel in a Protected Lagoon

Tetiaroa’s crystal-clear lagoons are teeming with marine life, making snorkeling a must-do activity. The protected status of the lagoon ensures a thriving underwater ecosystem, offering snorkelers the chance to encounter colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles and sharks.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, guided excursions are available to help you navigate the lagoon’s hidden treasures safely. The calm, shallow waters make it accessible for all skill levels, and the vibrant marine biodiversity guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Tetiaroa

Learn About Culture & History

Tetiaroa Island is not only a natural paradise but also a place rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore former sacred sites that were once central to Tahitian spiritual and cultural practices. These sites offer a glimpse into the island’s heritage, revealing its significance as a retreat for Tahitian royalty and a center for traditional rituals.

Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the customs, legends, and ceremonies that shaped the island’s past. By visiting these sacred locations, you can deepen your knowledge of the Tahitian culture and the island’s enduring legacy with Marlon Brando.

Tetiaroa

Suggested itinerary

Two days in Tetiaroa

The atoll is the ideal place to unwind and get back to nature. If you visit by catamaran, you will probably encounter some humpback whales during the reproductive season. You’ll need to board the catamaran’s dinghy to cross the reef, and once safely ashore, you can take a guided tour of the atoll. You’ll visit bird island, and you’ll learn about the flora and fauna of Tetiaroa and the efforts being made to preserve this unique atoll. Snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving, are the order of the day, as well as a visit to a freshwater lake and a natural bathing pool. In the early evening, you’ll be able to marvel at a truly magnificent sunset.

 

Discover

The historic heritage of Tetiaroa

Culture and history

Tetiaroa is a sacred place for Polynesians because it was once reserved for members of Tahiti’s royal family. Marlon Brando fell for the atoll’s charm while filming “The mutiny on the Bounty” in 1960, and purchased it a few years later. The island has since become a paradise for visitors seeking tranquility and authenticity.

Tetiaroa
Vue aérienne sur l'atoll de Tetiaroa © Tahiti Tourisme

You’ll also enjoy

A unique experience

The Brando is an eco-responsible luxury hotel on motu Onetahi in Tetiaroa. Inaugurated in 2014, this 5 star establishment is unique, with its 39 villas perfectly integrated in the natural surroundings. Renewable energy is provided by solar panels and a system of air conditioning which uses seawater pumped from a depth of 960 meters. The other motu on the atoll are reserved for the observation and scientific study of the wildlife.

Accommodation in Tetiaroa
Hôtel The brando à Tetiaroa © Jeremy Austiin
Tetiaroa
Getting to Tetiaroa © Tahiti Fly Shoot

Getting there and getting around

There are three ways to get to Tetiaroa. A domestic flight with the company Air Tetiaroa, on a sailboat charter for one or two days, or lastly, by helicopter with the company, Tahiti Nui Helicopters. Once on Tetiaroa, you can easily tour the atoll on foot or by bike.

Be inspired

Experiences

Vacations on Tetiaroa

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Luxury Beach Lovers Escape – Almost All Inclusive

Bora Bora, Tahiti, Tetiaroa

From 31165 $ CA per person
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Vue aérienne sur l'atoll de Tetiaroa © Tahiti Tourisme

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