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Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora!

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Overview
2 bedrooms
1 bathroom
4 guests
4 nights minimum 
Holiday Rental House
READY TO RENT AGAIN!!! BEGINNING JULY 1st, 2020. ...PLEASE READ OUR REVIEWS. WE HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS LONGER THAN ANYONE AT THE COMPLEX... NOW WITH FULL AIR CONDITIONING, new appliances and KAYAKS! Extra housekeeping available, as well as special catered in bungalow dining (Must be booked well in advance)! COMPARE OUR RATES TO THE RESORTS. The owners of the Black Pearl are proud to announce the acquisition and remodel of Marlon Brando's famous Over water Bungalows. James Michener called Bora Bora 'The most beautiful island in the world. And it is, it really is. Bora Bora is one of the Society Islands in the South Pacific, Tahiti being the largest. It is only a seven and a half hour flight from Los Angeles and only three hours earlier PST. The same time zone as Hawaii. To get there, you ta...READY TO RENT AGAIN!!! BEGINNING JULY 1st, 2020. ...PLEASE READ OUR REVIEWS. WE HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS LONGER THAN ANYONE AT THE COMPLEX... NOW WITH FULL AIR CONDITIONING, new appliances and KAYAKS! Extra housekeeping available, as well as special catered in bungalow dining (Must be booked well in advance)! COMPARE OUR RATES TO THE RESORTS. The owners of the Black Pearl are proud to announce the acquisition and remodel of Marlon Brando's famous Over water Bungalows. James Michener called Bora Bora 'The most beautiful island in the world. And it is, it really is. Bora Bora is one of the Society Islands in the South Pacific, Tahiti being the largest. It is only a seven and a half hour flight from Los Angeles and only three hours earlier PST. The same time zone as Hawaii. To get there, you take a direct flight to Tahiti and then a 45 minute island hopper to Bora Bora. You are now officially in paradise. Use your modern kitchen to prepare a meal, or dine out at the many fine restaurants on the island. The activities are endless if you wish to keep busy, or just lie down on the veranda, listen to the water and finish that 1000 page book you can't seem to finish. Life takes on new meaning when you are surrounded by the serenity and the beauty of Bora Bora. Come and see for yourself! PLEASE NOTE: Because we have kept our prices the same for the last five years, we will be raising our rates after February 1st, 2016... Any bookings made before that date will receive our existing rates... We have tried to keep our rates the same, but operating costs have become too expensive and we must adjust to ever rising prices. COMING SOON: Honeymoon, Anniversary and birthday packages!
House Rules
Pets not allowedKid friendlyNo smoking
Bathrooms
1 Full bath

Meet the host
Richard H
Hosting since September 2010
Languages spoken: English, French
Response Rate: 93%
Response Time: Within a few hours

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Reviews (25)
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Bart
Bart
Denver, CO4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A true get-away experience
We so appreciated our (far too short) week in Bungalow One. We loved the light, the water and the comforts of home far, all away from the hotels. We chose to "live there," avoiding restaurants for the most part, cooking our own meals from the abundant fruit and fish stands and the Chinese market. We scuba dived for two days with HiRo, see separate review. We swam and snorkeled from our bungalow and watched the outrigger canoes and boats go by. The sunsets were outstanding. Richard was very helpful with questions we had before the trip, and Nir and his wife were wonderful on-island hosts, meeting us at the dock with our rental car ready. We learned much about the Bounty beyond the Hollywood version (that we watched on SatTV), including both the history of colonialism in the islands as well as the turbulence in Brando's later marriage to his co-star. What a relaxing, immersive and meaningful trip!
Visited June 2021
Written 3 August 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Dave P
Dave P
Mountain View, CA19 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A wonderful place for a self-catering Bora Bora stay!
As Little Frieda would say, "Wowie zowie! This is *it*!" My wife and I don't really like hotels, let alone resorts - we prefer to "do for ourselves" rather than be catered to (and being dependent on the caterers). This bungalow was absolutely perfect for folks like us - private, spacious, quiet (no crowds of fellow resort-guests on all sides), and well equipped for our stay. Water all around us, wind in the roof and the trees, fish in the lagoon out in front, a private dock and ladder to the water, a well-equipped kitchen, outrigger-canoe teams racing though the lagoon in front of the deck as we were having breakfast... all the essentials, none of the resort froufrou, and at a price that's a stone bargain for what you get. My wife described herself as "gobsmacked" when she first saw the place and walked inside... she hadn't realized quite how awesome it would be... and we ended our week-long visit agreeing that we couldn't have found a better place to stay. The morning we left, we were treated to the sight of a four-some of stingrays cavorting in the water right by the dock. The bungalow complex is at the north end of the island, away from the primary tourist area near Matira Beach in the south, giving it more of an uncrowded island-authentic feel which we really appreciated. Nothing on the island ring-road is more than 20-25 minutes' drive - close enough to be easily accessible if you want to swim at the beach or rent a boat or have a fishburger at Snack Matira (do!). The over-water location and breeze meant that we didn't have a mosquito problem, compared to inland locations... my wife is a mosquito magnet in most places, but not at the bungalow! The airport motu is visible in the distance, and we could see planes arriving, but the sound was never intrusive. Nir (the property manager) was a joy to deal with... prompt, friendly, a great communicator via email or text or phone. We rented a car from him for our whole week, and it worked out just fine in all respects. This is a home-above-the-water-away-from-home, and if that's the sort of Bora Bora experience you're looking for, we give it our highest recommendation.
Visited May 2019
Written 17 June 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Escape398834
Escape398834
Wow! What a wonderful review. Thank you both so much for your kind words. It makes me and Seiko feel so good to know our bungalow is making our clients happy. We do try hard and love when our work is recognized. We hope to welcome you again someday! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Written 29 June 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

JCuzzle
JCuzzle
Sydney, Australia9 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Over the Water Magic!!
The bungalow was the perfect place and set up for our family of four(4 and 2 year olds). It is also massive in comparison to the bungalows at the hotels and half the price. The pick up from Nir at the ferry terminal was quick and easy and the phone he provides make life so easy for booking any tours or organising food-thanks Nir. We loved being on the mainland and drove to Matira beach for a swim regularly. It is also a quick drive the Chin Lee’s supermarket which is well stocked and you can get anything you need. The sunsets over the motus is spectacular and lasts forever. There is good snorkeling about 50m to the left of the bungalow but depends on the visibility of the day however tours to see the whales, manta rays and sharks and rays all pick you up direct from your own deck. The whales even came into the lagoon right in front of the bungalow whilst we were there and I was able to use the kayak provided to paddle along with them for a couple of hours which was amazing. My son and I also loved being able to fish right off the deck and caught over 10 different reef species albeit it small but still fun. We would absolutely recommend the bungalow to anyone and especially families that need a bit more room.
Visited August 2018
Written 12 August 2018. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

johnS9046SY
johnS9046SY
Nashville, TN1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
once in a lifetime
We stayed 3 nights Sofetel in an on beach bungalow in Moorea. Then 4 nights in overwater bungalow LeMeridian on Bora Bora. Both were wonderful but the on beach bungalow was slightly nicer. On Bora Bora we swam with the sharks. I am getting older and i would recommend a life preserver if the sea is rough. I made it but i struggled.
Visited February 2018
Written 17 May 2018. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

david m
david m
Elizabethtown, KY75 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is the spot
First off, Richard and Nir are the coolest folks I have coordinated with in my travels. Their operation is both laid back and precise. As far as I can tell, you can't get those sunsets at any other bungalows on the island because they are on the wrong side of the mountain. Also, you are not sandwiched with others and trapped in a resort that you must pay a shuttle to go to the mainland. You also have a wide variety of food because of the grill as opposed to what the resorts are serving. You have freedom. You will need the car from Nir, it's worth it. There is a giant piece of corral off the deck, home to tons of tropical fish. I left a snorkel mask there for the cause. Enjoy. So at the cost of no spa and massages, you have freedom and peace. I can't tell you how much we enjoyed our stay...fantastic. We will be back. Ps.... firm mattress.
Visited April 2017
Written 23 April 2017. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Safari649011
Safari649011
3 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Had all the potential for a great stay unfortunately it rained for most of the time we were there.
The house was as described and we enjoyed our stay at the house. It would of been much better if it hgadn't rained for most of the time we were there. Definitely rent the car from Nir and go exploring. Restaurants- Bloody's Marys, Bora Bora Yacht Club & Blue Coco Bora. Chin Lee's is the spot for groceries and definitely get some fresh Baguettes.
Visited January 2017
Written 31 January 2017. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

4adventurers
4adventurers
24 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Two weeks self catering in Paradise.
My mother wished to celebrate her 80th birthday here, having been to B B several times before, sometimes in this same bungalow. Since her last visit it had been massively renovated with all mod cons: air conditioned (if you want) rooms, ceiling fan in lounge plus extra table top fan, tastefully decorated, lots of towels, washing machine, grill cooker on the terrace, microwave & mini oven, coffee maker, fridge, boiling hot water instantly, good shower, safe, outdoor shower and hose for when you come back from swimming, easy access to sea via stepladder, car park nearby, small gate to stop dogs wandering in. Car rental via Nir the property manager, good value, no air con but open windows is enough, check water tank though as screen gets dusty quickly. Public transport a problem. Nir met us at the dock, supplied us with keys, local phone which is very handy for bookings, wi fi info etc. Bungalow easy to find, 15 mins drive away form Vaitape with its 2 supermarkets. Food is expensive but fresh - had to laugh at "No eggs in July". Some restaurants are part of larger hotels or modest local eateries. Snorkeling in immediate area modest (severe hurricane decades ago and general pollution have taken their toll) - best organise proper snorkeling trips s for much better experience & bring good underwater camera, unbelievable! Expensive but really worth it - ask Nir. My only niggle - no tv, would have been nice to see local recaps of Heiva celebrations. Only 3 dvds there, one of which was of course Mutiny / Bounty. But, plenty of reading material. Also, not enough plates, mismatched cutlery etc. For us 3 girls no problem but larger groups may have to ask for this to be sorted. However, these are minor details in an otherwise glorious stay. Thank you Nir for being so helpful and making my mother's time an unforgettable experience.
Visited July 2016 Travelled with family
Written 22 July 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Patanep
Patanep
142 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
La soluzione ideale
Abbiamo trascorso qui 14 giorni. Il bungalow è la soluzione ideale per le vacanze a Bora. di fronte a casa lo snorkeling è fantastico, con pesci pagliaccio e anemoni. Il deck permette di fare colazioni e cene stupende, godendosi il tramonto e il silenzio. Dentro c'è tutto quello che si possa immaginare. Una cucina superattrezzata, lavatrice, spazi ampi per tutti gli ospiti, aria condizionata nella camera matrimoniale e pale o ventilatore negli altri ambienti.Fuori il barbeque è superefficiente. Wifi perfettamente funzionante. Il silenzio domina. La descrizione rispecchia pienamente la realtà. Nir sul posto è un validissimo supporto, Richard è velocissimo nelle risposte e molto preciso. Fondamentale affittare l'auto (Nir vi può aiutare). Vaitape è a 15 minuti con supermercati, Matira, la meravigliosa , spiaggia, a venti minuti. Un modo fantastico per vivere la vera Bora, non quella dei motu e dei resort.
Visited July 2015 Travelled with family
Written 1 September 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Cherie542013
Cherie542013
Dauphin, PA9 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Perfect!
My husband and I enjoyed 12 days here celebrating our 30th anniversary. Everything you see and read about this bungalow is exactly what you get and the sunsets were amazing. It was so peaceful and quiet, it was tough to leave. Nir, the manager, was always available to take care of any problems and all were quickly resolved. Having an "island phone" was the best. We were able to make dinner reservations and schedule excursions on our own. We also rented a car thru Nir which allowed us to travel around the island for half the price the rental agencies were charging. Richard, thank you so much for sharing your beautiful home with us and Nir, thank you for everything!
Visited June 2015 Travelled as a couple
Written 6 July 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Sjohnson822
Sjohnson822
Green Cove Springs, FL6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Paradise!
Absolutely loved, loved, loved this place and the island of Bora Bora. I was hesitant at first sending payment to someone in California for a rental international, but it was safe. The correspondence and payment transaction was easy and timely. When you step off the plane in Bora Bora you are absolutely in paradise with screen saver shots everywhere. We chose the overwater bungalows because we did not want the resort style or prices. We rented a car from Nir who is your contact once you arrive in Bora Bora. Nir was at the dock when we arrived on the island and had everything set up for us. Everything was exactly how the owner states in their description. The phone provided by Nir is great and helped us out when I had to call the restaurants and excursions on the island. The bungalow was beautiful and very spacious. We used the gas grill for dinner a couple of nights for dinner, bought a homemade Pizza and chicken at a roulette a couple of nights, and Bloody Mary's a couple of nights and the microwave and toaster oven came in handy too. We snorkeled in front of our bungalow every morning and afternoon and fed the fish every morning and evening with the bread we purchased at the local store. The price of food in very high but manageable. If you like doing things on your own and not being bothered by anybody this is the place to go and relax. We will be back to stay again in the bungalow and hopefully one day be able to retire in Bora Bora.
Visited May 2015 Travelled as a couple
Written 26 May 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Showing results 1-10 of 25

What this rental offers
Kitchen and dining
  • Grill
  • Freezer
  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Cooker
  • Toaster
Location features
  • Waterfront location
Entertainment
  • DVD player
  • Stereo system
  • Television
Bathroom and laundry
  • Linens provided
  • Towels provided
  • Washer
Location info
  • Kid friendly
  • Beachfront/Lakeside
Indoor amenities
  • Air conditioning
  • Internet access
Parking
  • Parking available
Property features
  • Ceiling Fans
Wi-fi and internet
  • Wi-fi
Scenic views
  • Waterfront views
Outdoor amenities
  • Deck

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Map
About the neighbourhood
A gorgeous covered terrace, overlooking the lagoon and palm tree-covered islands, just a few hundred yards away, is fully furnished with quality outdoor furniture and gas barbecue. Here you can enjoy many wonderful hours -- reading a good book, marveling at the natural beauty of the area, or just doing nothing. If you wish to take a dip in the warm waters, nothing could be simpler. Just go down four steps on your private dock and dive in. Right there you can snorkel for hours, check out the thousands of colorful fish in and around the coral reef, or just lie on the beach under a palm tree, while sipping a Tahitian punch. We can help set up tours for you: Authentic Tahitian Motu picnics, Polynesian weddings, Jet skis, shark and manta ray feed, sunset sailing, scuba diving, island jeep and snorkeling tours, even a tattoo with a Tahitian master! NOW WITH FREE WIFI!
Access
Car required

Things to know
Check in / out timings
Check in after 3 pm • Check out by 10 am
Cancellation policy
  • 100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
  • No refund available once booking is confirmed
Notes from owner
2021 Rates: 4 night minimum $480.00 a night 2025 Rates: 4 night minimum - $550.00 a night Deposit $1000.00 Cleaning Deposit: $100.00 Fully refundable breakage deposit: $1,500.00 held by TripAdvisor Please check out our cancellation policy below. CANCELLATION POLICY: Cancellation Policy: Deposit: the deposit paid at time of booking is totally non-refundable. Rental payment: The balance of rental payment is due no later than 2 months prior to arrival. During that 2 months period, the cancellation is non-refundable, to the following exception: At the guest's request, nights canceled can be re listed as available on our web site. The nights re-booked will be partially refunded. That is all or part of the final payment. Otherwise there are no refunds. I highly recommend getting trip insurance; as we are not responsible for weather, travel delays or anything else that may cause your inability to occupy the bungalow for your reserved dates. You will be sent a release of liability form when I receive your deposit. This must be signed and sent back to me with your final payment.

About this property

First, check the Availability tab on this page to see if your dates are available. If they are, contact the owner via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox to confirm availability.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora!

Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora! is able to accommodate up to 4 guests. See all property details.

Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora! has one bathroom available. See all property details.

Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora! has 2 bedrooms available. See all property details.

Stays at Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora! must last at least 4 nights. See all property details.

Bungalow One - Brando's World Famous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora! - Tripadvisor - Holiday Rental in Bora Bora