*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
Set on grounds that once belonged to the first ever hotel to be built on the island, this charming boutique-style resort is a laid back island escape with plenty of leisure facilities – and all within close proximity of the nearby Maharepa Village and the famous Cook’s Bay. Cool off in the island’s largest swimming pool and spend lazy days in the sun overlooking the ocean or by the exquisite beach which has a selection of watersports. A trip to the decadent Manea Spa is a must; choose from a range of Polynesian well-being treatments. Meals are served at The Mahana'i Restaurant which offers a fine French and Polynesian menu. Be sure to sample some of the chef’s speciality pastries and desserts here, before an after-dinner cocktail at Autera’s Bar which also offers Polynesian fish preparation classes (Poisson cru), flower crown-making classes and Tahitian dance lessons during the day. There is a great selection of rooms and bungalows here. Gardenview Rooms are located at the back of the hotel and offer a peaceful retreat. Upgrade to a Premium Garden Pool Bungalow to enjoy a private pool or a Beach Bungalow for a terrace with direct beach access. Those seeking the ultimate in seclusion will love the Premium Overwater Bungalows, which are set on the furthest point of the lagoon and give you the chance to dive straight into the water from your private sundeck.
If you’ve ever fantasised about being marooned on a tropical island then this secluded retreat is the perfect escape. The thrill of arriving by private plane makes you feel like a VIP and when you catch sight of tiny islands fringed by platinum sands and a turquoise lagoon, you realise that you’ve arrived somewhere very special indeed. So special in fact, it recently featured in the BBC series, Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby, was voted number one in the ‘50 Best Resorts in the World’ at Condé Nast Traveler’s 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards and is also one of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. Marlon Brando was captivated by the beauty of the island while scouting for locations for Mutiny on the Bounty and he dreamed of opening a resort that would encroach as little as possible on the island's natural beauty. The Brando has been developed in line with his vision and you won’t find any overwater bungalows or see jet skis whizzing past. While it's easy to devote your days to relaxation – especially when you can enjoy a free daily spa treatment at the award-winning Varua Spa – there are plenty of opportunities to explore, from snorkelling and kayaking, to hiking and biking. And all guests can enjoy a free excursion every day. Visit the atoll’s untouched islands by canoe, help naturalists collect data on the island’s bird species, and encounter green turtles on the beach at night. You can also immerse yourself in Polynesian culture with cooking demos and lessons in handicrafts, music and dance. Indulge in award-winning cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Guy Martin at the two dining venues which serve fruit and vegetables from the organic garden, honey from the island’s hives and freshly-caught seafood. The Beachcomber Café has sensational lagoon views and serves Polynesian-inspired dishes and classic French cuisine while the fine-dining restaurant, Les Mutinés by Guy Martin, offers an intimate setting for romantic meals. The palm-fringed villas are tucked away in the tropical gardens and exquisitely designed to merge the outside and inside. They are very spacious with an understated elegance and direct access to a plunge pool and private beach area. Each villa has an outdoor bath, a media room with sofabed – ideal for families, and bicycles so that you can explore the island.
Manava Beach Resort & Spa
The Brando
