On a small island in the South Pacific during World War II. The stories unfold against a background of the mystical island, Bali Hai,

A young American nurse, Nellie Forbush, falls in love with Emile de Becque, a French planter, who’s lifestyle couldn’t be more different from the conservatism of her own Arkansas background. Meanwhile, Lt Joe Cable arrives on a dangerous espionage mission against the Japanese, and finds love with Liat the daughter of Polynesian trader, Bloody Mary.

Nellie’s and Joe’s feelings are tested when they must confront their racism, and by the war machine which places both Joe and Emile behind enemy lines.