Wander With WHIT To: The Brando
While the beaches and sparkling Tahitian waters of Bora Bora and French Polynesia are tough to beat, we found a private island retreat that tops them all.
The Brando offers an indulgent, ultra-polished escape unlike any other, and is one of the most exclusive destinations in the world. Frequented by celebrities and those looking for uncluttered luxury, here is a look at our time at one of the most memorable stays we’ve ever experienced.
“I’ve never been on a plane this small before.”
After coming from the serenity that was the private airport lounge exclusively for Air Tetiaroa, a bit of panic struct through me as I boarded the Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander headed for The Brando.
Our little jet engine carrying just 10 of us took off, but nearly immediately the stress faded away as we soared towards what I could only describe as the most stunning landscape I have ever seen in real life. Water piercing blue with such intensity it seemed like an overly saturated filter, I was in owe until we landed on the private runway just 12 short minutes later.
Arriving at The Brando feels as though you’re entering someplace sacred, and it is for the people who call this island home. The Brando family still owns the atoll and leases out part of it to the resort while also continuing to invest in protecting its natural beauty and biodiversity by strictly limiting development and creating one of the world’s only self-sustaining atolls. What was once a favorite vacation spot for Polynesian royalty is now only visited by a fortunate few each year, but the moment your toes touch the sand, goodness do they make you feel like royalty.
STAY
There are only 35 villas at The Brando, and all are set back beneath the palm-trees to offer exceptional privacy. In the villas you’ll find a deck complete with a private pool, secluded outdoor tub, twin vanities, a media room, and peak-a-boo ocean views. Everything from the champagne to the local snacks in the minibar is included. The Brando’s villas are split on two sides, Turtle Beach which offers sunset views, and Mermaid Bay which offers clear, swimmable water. The one-bedroom villas are ideal for couples, nestled in the lush jungle but still steps from the ocean, they are perfect for honeymooners seeking privacy in paradise. The property’s larger accommodations work well for families, giving everyone their own space.
Travel Tip : Have a favorite snack? Be sure to tell your travel advisor before departure - and you might just find some of your favorites stocked in your room on arrival.
One-Bedroom Villa
Each 1,000 sqaure foot villa offers indoor and outdoor living, a expansive terrace with a private pool overlooking the ocean or lagoon, and outdoor bathtub and shower. All villas have direct access to the island’s private beach.
Two-Bedroom Villa
Those traveling with children or groups of friends will appreciate the extra space in these 1,800 square foot villas. In addition to all the appointments of the one-bedroom villa, these offer a private dining area, kitchen and two-tiered terrace.
Three-Bedroom Villa
Ideal for larger groups or multi-generational families, the 2,600 square foot three-bedroom villas offer everything in the two-bedroom but on a larger scale. The dining area accommodates 8 people, and a third bedroom separate from the main villa which includes its own dressing room, bathroom and outdoor tub.
SAVOR
We highly recommend booking The Brando’s all-inclusive rate, meaning your stay would account for all meals and most alcoholic beverages, custom in-villa snacks plus daily excursions and wellness programming.
Needing to refuel after that early-morning snorkeling excursion? Not to worry. The Brando has multiple dining options. Here are our favorites :
Nami Teppanyaki - This intimate table is a sociable gathering spot designed for interaction and seats only 8 guests at a time. Here we enjoyed sushi, and artfully prepared meats and vegetables.
Bob’s Bar - The original social hub, Bob’s Bar began right on the island, and has a rich legacy with the lore of Marlon’s daily visits, and cocktails inspired by his films. Be sure to check out the stories about Marlon in the cocktail menu!
Les Mutinés - The star of the island championed by innovative French chef Jean Imbert, Les Mutinés blends Polynesian cuisine with classic French technique. You’ll want to dine here more than once, as the rotating tasting menu is worth multiple visits.
Ready to wander to The Brando with a customized itinerary? Get in touch with our team and we’ll get you ready to go!
SEE
While we’d be fine lounging and limiting our activities just enjoying the surrounding view and watching the hermit crabs toddle by, if you’re worried about getting restless there’s plenty of spots on property to keep you busy. The team at The Brando offers a selection of island excursions for guests to better interact with the nature and landscape that make Tetiaroa so special. Rest assured, you will not be searching for things to do during your time here. If you need a bit of guidance, their dedicated concierge team can offer suggestions based on your interests and experience level, and you’re welcome to engage as little or as much as you want during your stay.
Some of the offerings include :
Biologist of the Day Excursion
Tetiaroa Ultimate Tour
Bird Discovery
Reef Quest
Polynesian Dance + Music Lesson
Guided Researcher Tour
Sustainability Deep Dive
Travel Tip : One place to be sure to visit during your stay is the Queen’s Bath. Accessible by boat, this tranquil private lagoon has water so iridescent it was almost hard to look directly at it, where Queen Pōmare IV of Tahiti used to exfoliate with the lagoon’s fine sand.
SPA
It’s hard to imagine being stressed in a place like this, so even if you find yourself in a tranquil state like we did - the Varua Polynesia Spa at The Brando is worth a visit. You’ll especially want to take part if you book the all-inclusive rate to take advantage of the daily 50’ treatment granted to each villa (which may be combined for one truly immersive experience).
The spa is tucked away on the middle of the resort on the lagoon’s edge, and is mostly outdoors connected by a series of suspended wooden walkways and charming private huts. Honeymooners will appreciate the one double occupancy treatment room complete with private plunge pool and relaxation area, perched away from the main part of the facility,
While of the treatments received rave reviews from our travel companions, we recommend booking the three-hour Fare Manu experience. This indulgent offering kicks things off with a long soak in a bath enhanced with local herbs and island plant extract, followed by a traditional massage accompanied by the famous Tahitian monoi oil and gardenias from surrounding islands.
Preferred Partner Amenities
The Brando is part of WHIT Travel’s Preferred Partners, and when you book your stay through WHIT Travel Co. you’ll have the following complimentary amenities automatically added to your reservation.
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
100 EUR hotel or spa services credit, to be utilized during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
The property’s all-inclusive package offers :
Meals and most alcoholic beverages, including champagne
Custom minibar, refreshed daily
Daily excursion per person, per day
One 50’ spa treatment per day
Bicycle rental per person for stay duration
Beach equipment including kayaks, canoes and snorkeling gear
Ready to wander to The Brando (or somewhere equally fabulous) on a trip of your own with a customized itinerary? Get in touch with our team.
Or if you prefer to plan travels on your own, click here to book independently and still have Preferred Partner Amenities applied.