Tetiaroa, an atoll 30 mi/50 km north of Tahiti, consists of 12 islands surrounded by a coral reef and includes a large bird sanctuary (Tahuna Iti) and offers amazing snorkeling with sea turtles.
But Tetiaroa is probably better known for who owned it rather than what it is. Marlon Brando bought the atoll in 1965 and made it his French Polynesian home. He had been introduced to the islands when filming Mutiny on the Bounty in Tahiti, a project that also introduced him to his Polynesian co-star and soon-to-be wife, Tarita Teriipia. For years before his death, he spent considerable time on Tetiaroa.
The only way to visit the island is on an expensive day trip by boat; it takes just 15 minutes by private charter from Tahiti or Moorea. Arrangements can be made at the port in Papeete.
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