Overview of Tetiaroa

French Polynesia’s Tetiaroa is a collection of atolls and islands that is roughly 30 miles north of Tahiti. The lagoon has a diameter of around 7 miles, and the atoll is made up of 12 motus, or tiny islets. Marlon Brando had made the atoll his personal getaway after becoming enamored with it and buying the island in 1967. Tetiaroa is now a natural reserve where tourists may get a peek of the South Pacific’s beautiful wildlife and unspoiled beaches.

The history of Tetiaroa is one of its distinctive characteristics. The atoll was originally a holy site for the Tahitian people and served as the royal family’s vacation home. A Tahitian family bought the atoll in the early 1900s, and they exploited it as a coconut farm. Marlon Brando eventually bought the property because he was attracted to the island’s natural beauty and thought it had the potential to develop into a sustainable resort.

How to go from Moorea to Tetiaroa

One of the simplest ways to reach Tetiaroa if you’re planning a trip is via the neighboring island of Moorea. The island of Moorea, which is about 10 miles west of Tahiti, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, blue lagoons, and verdant highlands.

You can take a quick trip with Air Tetiaroa from Moorea to Tetiaroa. The flight, which lasts around 20 minutes, provides breathtaking aerial views of the atoll. As an alternative, you can reserve a day excursion with one of the local Moorea tour companies. A picturesque boat trip to Tetiaroa and a guided tour of the island and its fauna are often included in these excursions.

Tetiaroa’s Wildlife and Conservation

On land and in the nearby lagoon, a wide variety of fauna may be seen in Tetiaroa. The green sea turtle, which lays its eggs on Tetiaroa’s beaches between October and March, is one of the atoll’s most recognizable species. Visitors can assist with conservation initiatives including beach clean-ups and coral planting, as well as take part in guided tours to see how eggs are laid and how hatchlings are raised.

The frigatebird, another well-known species on Tetiaroa, is distinguished by its vivid red throat pouch and aerial gymnastics. While they nest in the nearby trees and are unafraid of people, Tetiaroa is one of the few spots in the world where you may see these birds up close.

Tetiaroa is also home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and vibrant fish, in addition to these renowned species. In order to study marine life without harming it in its natural home, tourists are invited to engage in eco-friendly activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding in the atoll’s protected lagoon.

Activities and Beaches on Tetiaroa

There are many things to do at Tetiaroa, which is home to some of the most immaculate beaches in the South Pacific. Just lounging on Tetiaroa’s beaches and taking in the sun is one of the most popular activities. With its smooth white sand and sparkling sea, Motu Onetahi is one of the most well-liked beaches. This beach, which lies on one of the bigger islands in the atoll, is a fantastic place for kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling.

Visit Motu Fareone, which is on the opposite side of the atoll, as a different option. This beach is ideal for a picnic or a romantic break because it feels more isolated and is encircled by beautiful greenery.

Tetiaroa also offers a wide variety of active excursions for those who choose them. On some of the larger islands, guided treks are offered, giving tourists the chance to discover the atoll’s distinctive ecosystem and get up close to the local fauna. Visitors can try kiteboarding or windsurfing in the atoll’s lagoon for a more exhilarating experience.

Visits to the Tetiaroa Society, a research facility on the island devoted to the preservation and maintenance of the atoll’s ecosystem, are another well-liked activity. In addition to learning about the continuing study and conservation activities on Tetiaroa, visitors can take part in guided tours of the site.

Tetiaroa’s Sustainable Tourism

Tetiaroa’s dedication to sustainable tourism is one of its most distinctive features. Marlon Brando had a plan to build a self-sustaining resort with little damage to the local ecosystem when he bought the atoll in the 1960s. The dream has come true, and the Brando resort now serves as a role model for eco-friendly tourism methods all over the world.

One of the greenest resorts in the world, the Brando resort uses a combination of solar, coconut oil, and seawater air conditioning to keep guests comfortable. A wastewater treatment system at the resort also recycles water for irrigation, promoting the development of the atoll’s vegetation. Also, the resort is dedicated to hiring and sourcing local talent, with over 80% of its staff members being from adjacent islands.

Tetiaroa visitors are urged to engage in sustainable tourism methods as well. This includes maintaining the natural environment of the atoll’s fauna as well as undertaking projects like beach cleanups and coral planting.

Conclusion

Tetiaroa is a special place that gives tourists an opportunity to take in the wonder and beauty of the South Pacific while simultaneously encouraging environmentally friendly tourism practices. Tetiaroa is a place that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impact on anybody who goes because of its rich wildlife, magnificent beaches, and dedication to conservation. Tetiaroa is a place you should visit whether you’re searching for a quiet retreat or an exciting experience.