Discover Tetiaroa: A Premier Whale Watching Destination

When you hear “French Polynesia,” popular islands like Tahiti or Bora Bora might spring to mind. However, this stunning region is also home to many lesser-known jewels. One such gem is the lovely, idyllic private island of Tetiaroa, known for its quieter atmosphere, wildlife conservation efforts and fascinating whale watching season. Tetiaroa's turquoise waters and sandy shores, like many surrounding islands and atolls, are teeming with vibrant wildlife, offering plenty of opportunities for a relaxing tropical getaway. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into what you can expect when you visit this stunning island teeming with life.

Where is Tetiaroa Island?

Tetiaroa Island, one of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, is a serene atoll in the South Pacific Ocean. Historically, it served as a retreat for the Tahitian royal family, offering a tranquil escape just over 50 km north of the main island of Tahiti. In the 1960s, while filming Mutiny on the Bounty in Tetiaroa, American actor Marlon Brando was captivated by the atoll's beauty. He eventually purchased the island, transforming it into a personal paradise. Today, the Brando Tetiaroa private island is home to The Brando, a luxurious five-star hotel renowned for its eco-friendly initiatives. This exquisite accommodation runs on solar power and other renewable energy sources, seamlessly blending opulence with sustainability.

How do you get to Tetiaroa?

The fastest way to Tetiaroa from one of French Polynesia’s main islands is by plane. Flights via Air Tetiaroa depart from Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport, but these are chartered exclusively for guests of The Brando. If you're holidaying on another Pacific island and wish to visit Tetiaroa for a day trip, the best option is to take a catamaran. Numerous catamaran excursions set off from Tahiti, with the journey typically taking around three hours to reach Tetiaroa. However, note that Tetiaroa has no reef opening—just pristine sandbars. As a result, catamarans cannot dock right at the island’s edge. Instead, you'll need to transfer from the catamaran to a small dinghy to reach Tetiaroa’s white, sandy shores.

Things to look forward to when visiting Tetiaroa Island

So, what is there to do on the stunning yet underrated island of Tetiaroa? Here are three experiences you absolutely must not miss when you visit.

Watching humpback whales breach the water’s surface

French Polynesia whale watching is truly extraordinary—but it’s even more special on Tetiaroa Island. If you visit this atoll between July and November, you may witness the hundreds of humpback whales that flock to the area to give birth and care for their young. During your catamaran ride to the island, you’ll have the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close, a real treat for wildlife enthusiasts and scuba divers. There is plenty to observe and appreciate when whale watching in Tetiaroa. You might see a mother nursing her calf or a male whale courting a potential mate during the reproductive season. And if that’s not impressive enough, you’ll be amazed by whales breaching the ocean’s surface, putting on what can only be described as an acrobatics show for onlookers. Whales are deeply revered in French Polynesia, so it’s important to be respectful to these majestic creatures if you see them breaching the waters of Tetiaroa. Avoid approaching them, especially when they’re with their young. Do not touch, encircle or cut off the whales, no matter how excited you are to see them face to face.

Learning about wildlife preservation efforts at Bird Island

While visiting Tetiaroa, you can also visit the ornithological reserve, also known as “Bird Island.” This sanctuary is home to fifteen different bird species, such as White Terns, Red-Tailed Tropicbirds, Brown Boobys and many more. It’s perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers who want to learn more about the island’s wildlife. Don’t forget to keep your camera handy. You never know when a flock of birds will soar past you in breathtaking synchronisation, offering the perfect photo opportunity.

Relaxing on Tetiaroa’s white-sand beaches

And, of course, a visit to Tetiaroa offers a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds of French Polynesia’s more popular islands. You’ll have the pristine white-sand beaches and azure waters all to yourself. Here, you can indulge in a range of water activities. You can go snorkelling or scuba diving if you want to see the atoll’s vibrant marine wildlife or opt for a more leisurely experience by kayaking in the lagoon or paddleboarding in the sandbars. You can also simply lounge on the sand, soak up the sun and take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear water. It’s a fantastic and serene place for unwinding after days of excursions in French Polynesia.

When is the best time to visit Tetiaroa?

The best time to visit Tetiaroa is between June to September. During these months, the weather in French Polynesia enjoys its driest weather, so you can explore its many islands without having to worry about rain. It’s also considered winter in the area, which means it won’t be scorching hot as you unwind by the beach. Plus, it’s the time of year when humpback whales frequent the area, making it the perfect season to see Tetiaroa.