One of the best ways to get excited about an upcoming trip is by diving into books, movies, or TV shows set in your destination. If you're planning a South Pacific getaway, these travel books and films will help you connect with the culture, history, and beauty of the region before you even board the plane.

 Whether you're dreaming of French Polynesia, Fiji, Vanuatu, or the remote islands of Oceania, here are some of the best books and movies about the South Pacific to inspire your journey.

📚 Must-Read Books Set in the South Pacific

These books offer a mix of travel memoirs, historical accounts, and classic fiction that will enhance your appreciation for the islands of the South Pacific.

Among the Islands: Adventures in the Pacific by Tim Flannery - A scientist’s  account of his expeditions through remote South Pacific islands, blending nature, history, and culture.

Getting Stoned with Savages by J. Maarten Troost – A humorous travel memoir about Vanuatu and Fiji.

Headhunters on My Doorstep by J. Maarten Troost – A travel writer retraces the route of Robert Louis Stevenson

The Happy Isles of Oceania by Paul Theroux – A travel writer takes an eighteen month tour of the South Pacific by kayak.

Sea People: The Puzzle of Polynesia by Christina Thompson – A great resource for the history of the South Pacific.

Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener – A classic

Lonely Planet South Pacific Experience – This is scheduled to release September 23, 2025.

🎬 Top Movies and TV Shows About the South Pacific

Get into vacation mode with these films and documentaries set in the islands of the South Pacific. Perfect for inspiration, education, or simply a night of tropical escapism.

Vai – A story centered on women coming of age in the South Pacific. 

Available on : Amazon Prime, Peacock, and Hoopla (through your library).

Couples Retreat – A group of couples heads to Tahiti for a therapy retreat. Chaos ensues.

Available on: Netflix.

BBC Wild Pacific – It’s also called South Pacific. It’s a nature documentary exploring the South Pacific. 

 Available on:  Amazon or AppleTV (buy or rent)

No Reservations Season 3 Episode 6: French Polynesia – Chef Anthony Bourdain explores the food and culture of French Polynesia. 

Available on:  Amazon Prime or MAX.

Martin Clunes Islands of the Pacific  - Season 1 features episodes on French Polynesia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Tonga. 

Available on: AcornTV (via 7 day trail on Amazon Prime) 

I included Amazon links for convenience to learn more about each recommendation. I do receive a small commission from those links. All your usual Amazon setting and benefits will apply. I hope this helps!

 ✈️ Final Thoughts: Get Inspired Before You Travel

Reading books and watching films about your destination is a great way to deepen your understanding and make your travel experience even more meaningful. I hope these South Pacific travel books and movies help spark your wanderlust!

 

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