TETIAROA SOCIETY
Meet the keepers of the atoll
To traverse Tetiaroa with a naturalist guide is to delve into the very heart of Polynesia. The Society’s research fortifies Tetiaroa against global shifts, nurturing its ecosystems, and preserving its unique cultural and historical heritage for generations to come.
Learn MoreExperiences
Guided Excursions
While at Tetiaroa, guests can partake in excursions that weave through the atoll’s motus, curated by the stewards of the isle’s legacy. The Tetiaroa Society, deeply versed in the atoll’s lore and science, imparts tales and wisdom, offers an immersive experience into the ecosystem’s diversity, the ancient archaeological secrets, and the geological wonders, from the coral depths to the celestial expanses.
Tetiaroa Ultimate Tour
The boat glides across a shimmering lagoon toward a protected motu where seabirds swoop and dive in a playful dance…
Read MoreTetiaroa Ultimate Tour
The boat glides across a glistening lagoon to a protected motu, affectionately dubbed “bird island,” where seabirds swoop and dive in a playful dance. The journey leads to another isle, marking the start of a voyage through old forests, a lush remnant of ancient times.
Within this verdant realm, one might encounter the bright blue kaveu, or coconut crab, its formidable span stretching up to three feet, a vibrant spectacle against the earthy backdrop. Steps away from the path, sacred archaeological sites whisper tales of time past, seamlessly marrying the wild with the echoes of history. The Ultimate Tour unfolds as an exquisite tapestry of Tetiaroa, embracing a mosaic of interests from the annals of history to the marvels of nature, positioning itself as the quintessential gateway to exploration.
Duration
2.5 Hours
Ideal for
Adults & kids
Bird Discovery Tour
Enchantment soars to great heights when surveying the majestic, feathered treasures of Tetiaroa atoll…
Read MoreBird Discovery Tour
Navigating through serene waters, one arrives at a motu sanctuary, a haven for seven out of the ten seabird species that inhabit, nourish, and reproduce throughout the year on Tetiaroa. Boobies, terns, noddies, and egrets are among the avian residents, each a part of the diverse ecosystem. This atoll also serves as a seasonal refuge for migratory birds seeking solace under its sun. During the visit, the narrative unfolds through insights of Tetiaroa Society’s guides and researchers, dedicated to understanding and preserving the symphony of life that thrives among the motu, the atoll, and its surroundings.
Duration
2 hours
Ideal for
Adults & Kids
Reef Quest
A journey to the frontier’s edge—where the barrier reef stands as the atoll’s guardian.
Read MoreReef Quest
The tour vessel is steered towards the outer limits, the barrier reef that stands as the atoll’s custodian. Nearing their destination, the anchor drops, commencing a snorkeling adventure amid vibrant coral gardens.
There encounters ensue amongst an array of coral species and a mosaic of marine life, from the darting fish to the languid sea cucumbers. Fortuity may grant glimpses of stingrays and sharks. Within moments, the symbiotic relationships within this thriving ecosystem reveal themselves, illustrating how the coral not only shields against the vast Pacific but also forms the very bedrock of the atoll’s existence.
Minimum age 12 years old
Must be a confident swimmer
Duration
2 hours
Kayaking Excursion
A short boat journey leads to a pass between motus, a narrow waterway ideal for viewing life above and below the water…
Read MoreKayaking Excursion
A short boat journey between motus is but a prelude to an amphitheater of nature’s wonders, with the boat’s anchor dropped a whisper away from the shore’s inhabitants. The adventure proceeds on the water’s surface in kayaks. Under the Tetiaroa Society’s guidance, a leisurely sojourn reveals the coastal nurseries of seabirds, the underwater grace of fish, and the distant, tranquil outline of islets. In the gentle sway of the palms, a fleeting yet profound recognition occurs: one is truly in the cradle of the South Pacific, alone with nature in the serene sanctuary of Tetiaroa.
duration
2 hours
ideal for
adults and teens
notes
must be in good physical condition
Green Tour
A journey into the ever-beating heart of the resort, and the research, scientific studies and innovation efforts offering promise for the future…
Read MoreGreen Tour
The journey unveils the myriad ways in which The Brando harmonizes luxury with ecological responsibility: sea water air conditioning system (SWAC) providing a cool sanctuary within the villas, verdant organic gardens yield fresh produce that graces the tables of the resort’s dining establishments. An array of solar panels captures the sun’s energy, powering the resort with a sustainable pulse. This immersive tour showcases the resort’s dedication to sustainable practices, revealing how each element contributes to a larger vision of luxury and conservation intertwined, setting a precedent for future endeavors in the luxury resort sphere.
The grand finale is the Research Station, a nucleus of exploration and learning, serving as a beacon for sustainability in action within the resort’s ecosystem. It is in this place where Tetiaroa Society spearheads research and scientific studies, transforming these endeavors into tangible realities.
Duration
1.5 hours
ideal for
Adults and kids
Archeological Tour
A leisurely bicycle tour leads through whispers of history, and remnants of times past
Read MoreArcheological Tour
Guests embark on a bicycle journey through the tranquil expanse of Onetahi, where the whispers of history echo alongside the rhythm of pedals. This passage through time, guided by the stewards of Tetiaroa Society, unveils the ritual sites of Polynesia, resting on hallowed grounds. It is a venture into the past, where tales of regal inhabitants unfurl like the sails of ancestral canoes. As the journey meanders through the motu, a deeper connection to the natural world manifests, one that is intrinsic to the Polynesian way of life and their cultural tapestry. Here, the land and the sea are not merely elements but vital characters in the ongoing narrative of Polynesia.
Duration
1.5 hours
Ideal for
adults and kids
Rimatu’u Excursion
The journey by boat to Rimatu’u unveils the storied past of Tetiaroa, the islet that was once the private refuge of Marlon Brando…
Read MoreRimatu’u Excursion
The journey to Rimatu’u, a secluded isle within the Tetiaroa atoll, unveils a tapestry of history and nature. Once the chosen refuge of Marlon Brando, this motu whispers tales of the past through its enduring structures and sacred sites. A tranquil lake nestles at the heart of Rimatu’u, a mirror reflecting the march of the sun through the sky. Here, one can trace the footsteps of Polynesians, unraveling the secrets of indigenous flora and their time-honored uses, woven into the very fabric of the motu’s spirit.
Minimum age 12 years old
must be a confident swimmer
Duration
2.5 hours
Custom Excursion
Private tours, meticulously tailored to delight and surprise each guest with personal moments and intimate experiences that will be cherished forever…
Read MoreCustom Excursion
Elements of various excursions may be seamlessly woven into a single extended day of discovery. Tailored private tours offer a spectrum of experiences — from snorkeling amid vibrant reefs to observing the avian wonders of nature, strolling along virgin white sands to uncovering the narratives of ancient sites, or simply finding solace in the embrace of natural pools. Often, these journeys culminate in a secluded picnic on a motu, encapsulating the essence of an idyllic day.
Duration
Varies
EXPERIENCES
Polynesian Arts & Culture
Through stories rich in personal history, guides impart their knowledge of Polynesian life, culture, and art. It is in the effortless exchange, akin to a dance between kindred spirits, where guests partake in weaving, singing, strumming, and cooking, enveloped in the warmth of an extended family. Such experiences forge a bond with the place, instilling a sense of belonging that endures beyond their stay.
Traditional Polynesian Dance
Stepping beyond the oft portrayed Polynesian song and dance, into heartfelt and intimate expressions of this alluring culture…
Read MoreTraditional Polynesian Dance
Here, on the sacred shores of Tetiaroa, the rhythm is born of the atoll’s heartbeat, the dance as untamed as the ocean winds. The artistry is genuine, springing forth from the well of Polynesian souls. Within this enclave, the steps of ancestral dances are imparted, set to the vibrant cadence of live music and heartfelt singing by the island’s caretakers. In this realm, these precious moments secure their place in the tapestry of memory, a testament to The Brando’s dedication to authenticity and connection with the Polynesian spirit.
Duration
30 mins
Pareu dying and tying
Set against a backdrop of gentle ocean waves and dreamy island music, the traditional art of Pareu making unfolds.
Read MorePareu dying and tying
On the shores, with the melody of soft live music filling the air, the art of manipulating a pareu, a traditional Polynesian sarong, into various forms unfolds. Participants are guided through the steps of twisting and twirling the fabric, before immersing it into a palette of vibrant hues to craft a tie-dyed marvel. Once dried, this creation, a testament to Polynesian spirit, becomes a versatile accessory, perfect for adorning at the beach, poolside, or anywhere one wishes to display a remnant of Polynesia.
Duration
30 mins
Ideal for
Adults and kids
Weaving Lessons
Centuries of practice have endowed Polynesians with the skill to transform palm fronds into an array of items, including roofs, baskets, hats, and works of art.
Read MoreWeaving Lessons
Centuries of practice have endowed Polynesians with the skill to transform palm fronds into an array of items, including roofs, baskets, hats, and works of art.
With time, these fronds transition to a light natural brown, yet maintain their inherent strength and durability. The resort offers an opportunity to explore how these ancient traditions persist in the present, guiding guests in crafting their own woven masterpieces.
Duration
30 mins
Ideal for
Adults & kids
Music lessons with ukulele, pahu, tō’ere
The love of music in Polynesian culture finds expression through various instruments developed over generations…
Read MoreMusic lessons with ukulele, pahu, tō’ere
The love of music in Polynesian culture finds expression through various instruments developed over generations. Guests have the opportunity to learn strumming chords on a Tahitian ukulele or tapping rhythms on a pahu, a traditional Polynesian drum. These experiences culminate in a Polynesian jam session, with the guests at center stage.
Duration
30 mins
Ideal for
adults and kids
notes
no musical experience necessary
Tahitian language
Tahitian language is melodic, vivid, and full of life. Guests are initiated into this rich world of verbal expression through fun and simple phrases…
Read MoreTahitian language
The melodic nature of the Tahitian language invites learners to explore its rhythms and tones. Guests learn introductory phrases and other expressions useful throughout the atoll. This linguistic journey swiftly brings them to the point where they are greeting everyone with ‘Ia ora na’, weaving themselves into the fabric of local tradition.
Duration
30 mins
Ideal for
adults and kids
Modern and Polynesian spa treatments
The Varu Te Ora spa is located on grounds historically frequented by Tahitian royalty for rejuvenating beauty rituals…
Read MoreModern and Polynesian spa treatments
The Varu Te Ora spa is located on grounds historically frequented by Tahitian royalty for rejuvenating beauty rituals. Sarongs, known as pareu, are adorned by guests as they navigate elevated walkways amidst lush tropical foliage to experience modern treatments inspired by ancient traditions.
On Tetiaroa, a massage transcends basic body therapy, marking the commencement of a holistic journey towards achieving harmony with nature, Polynesian culture, and its people.
Duration
Varies
Ideal for
Adults
notes
treatments can be booked through the spa
Custom Polynesian Experience
For those keen on delving deeper into Polynesian culture, an introduction to a local expert offers a more personal and intimate experience.
Read MoreCustom Polynesian Experience
For those keen on delving deeper into Polynesian culture, an introduction to a local expert is available, offering a more personal and intimate experience. This journey may include guided tours, meditation walks, or fireside storytelling where the expert shares experiences and stories that enrich the appreciation, understanding, and affection for Polynesia and further one’s inner discovery. Details can be obtained through the guest experience team.
duration
varies
Experiences
Private Expeditions
Beyond the atoll, the vast expanse of the deep blue Pacific Ocean serves as a habitat for a diverse ecosystem of marine mammals and acts as the portal to Tahiti, Bora Bora, and other islands of French Polynesia. Opportunities abound for deep-sea fishing, swimming alongside gentle giants, or embarking on a flight to explore the remote corners of the South Pacific, even if just for a day.
Custom Expeditions
Dreams transform into reality with the creation of personalized itineraries spanning a few hours or an entire day…
Read MoreCustom Expeditions
Dreams transform into reality with the creation of personalized itineraries spanning a few hours or an entire day. Options range from staying within the atoll to venturing into the deep blue Pacific Ocean or traveling to neighboring locales such as Tahiti and Moorea. Guests may choose from the available selection or challenge the team to reveal unique experiences known only to them.
Duration
varies
Whale Watching & Swimming
From August to October, the deep blue waters bordering the atoll serve as a sanctuary for giants of the deep…
Read MoreWhale Watching & Swimming
From August to October, the deep blue waters bordering the atoll serve as a sanctuary for humpback whales arriving to mate and give birth before their migration back to the southern pole. Excursions around the atoll offer a vantage point for observing the majestic journey of these whales as they engage in their aquatic ballet of swimming, breaching, and tail slapping. On fortunate occasions, the Tetiaroa Society Guide may discern whales and their calves at proximity, facilitating a snorkeling venture that allows for an intimate, yet respectfully distanced, encounter with these leviathans of the ocean.
Duration
3 hours
Ideal for
Minimum age 12 years old
Notes
Must be strong swimmer
Deep Sea Fishing
Equipped with the gear to lure a plethora of species, guests embark on a thrilling excursion beyond the atoll’s barrier reef…
Read MoreDeep Sea Fishing
Equipped with an array of gear to lure a plethora of species, guests embark on a thrilling fishing excursion beyond the atoll’s barrier reef. Here, one might troll for surface-dwelling game fish or pursue the formidable fighters dwelling in the depths below.
Regardless of guests’ skill levels, the crew are at hand to provide expert guidance, ensuring the trophy catch doesn’t become the ‘one that got away’.
Duration
varies
Ideal for
Adults & kids (12 years old minimum)
Diving Expeditions
Tetiaroa remains a sanctuary untouched by human hands, embraced by crystal clear waters where coral and vegetation thrive in a spectacle of natural beauty.
Read MoreDiving Expeditions
Tetiaroa remains a sanctuary untouched by human hands, embraced by crystal clear waters where coral and vegetation thrive in a spectacle of natural beauty. The atoll’s biodiversity is unmatched, hosting an array of marine life coexisting as intended by nature.
Coral outcroppings serve as stages for sea cucumbers resting on the seabed, parrotfish grazing on the reef, and black-tip reef sharks and spotted eagle rays gliding within arm’s reach. This natural wonder is the essence of Tetiaroa.
Duration
2 hours (one dive 4 hours (two dives)
notes
Diving certification required.
On Water
Away from the shore, the ocean invites activities from the swift-paced paddle of an outrigger to the calm drift of a kayak over the shallow azure. Between these, the coral garden beckons for snorkeling among reef sharks, rays, and schools of fish, in a silent ballet under the waves.
Swimming (pool/ocean)
Snorkelling
Kayaking
Outrigger canoe
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Scuba Diving (Certification required)
Land Based Activities
Onetahi beckons explorers to traverse its landscapes, offering pathways for cycling, self-guided nature trails for tranquil walks, a gym for invigorating workouts, courts for a spirited game of pickleball, or an inspiring visit to the gardens that supply the restaurants with fresh produce.
Tennis
Pickle Ball
Biking
Fitness Center / Coaching & Classes
Beach Volleyball
Private Yoga
EXPERIENCES
For Kids
Tetiaroa offers a realm of enchantment for the young, where crafting sandcastles on the shore as marine life meanders by connects them with the marvels of the natural world. The island’s wildlife, from sea turtles on its beaches and verdant plant life within its forests, to the aquatic universe just offshore, wields the power to transform young hearts and minds. The island’s programs are designed to forge deep connections between children and Polynesia, rendering a visit to Tetiaroa far more profound than the usual beach holiday.
Lagoon School
Lagoon School offers children aged 6-12 an immersive experience in nature alongside their peers.
Read MoreLagoon School
Under the guidance of Tetiaroa Society Guides, children engage in four distinct sessions. They snorkel amidst fish, coral, crabs, and sea cucumbers, discovering the underwater world. On land, the adventure continues with a forest walk, where a mysterious map leads to learning about plant life and Tetiaroa’s sea turtles, enriching their connection to Polynesia and its natural wonders.
Ages
6-12 years
Duration
2 to 2.5 hours per session
Varua Polynesian Spa Experiences for Kids
The spa welcomes children aged 8-12, accompanied by their parents in the cabin, to immerse in the enchantment of Tetiaroa through treatments crafted especially for them.
Read MoreVarua Polynesian Spa Experiences for Kids
The spa welcomes children aged 8-12, accompanied by their parents in the cabin, to immerse in the enchantment of Tetiaroa through treatments crafted especially for them. Offering massage, facial care, body scrubs, and manicures and pedicures tailored for young guests, these sessions foster a deep connection with the atoll’s culture and people, unveiling the concept of mana in a tangible and memorable way.
Duration
1-2 hours
Ideal for
Kids ages 8-12
EXPERIENCES
One of a Kind
Where else can one watch a movie on the beach just steps outside their door? Or have a table for two, or six, set on a secluded beach for a midday multi-course meal? Or learn about the legendary French Polynesian black pearls, and secure a clandestine treasure for one’s beloved? On Tetiaroa, the promise is to engrave each day and night with lasting memories. All it takes is a simple request.