Kauai Remembers Mitzi Gaynor, Star of South Pacific Filmed Here

We lost a true legend today. Mitzi Gaynor, the iconic star of South Pacific—a film that forever ties her to the island of Kauai—has died at 93. Mitzi graced Kauai and enchanted Beat of Hawaii editors in 2009 when she returned to celebrate the film’s 50th anniversary. Her warmth and charm will forever light up the island as it has since South Pacific‘s 1957 filming that included locations at Haena Beach, Lumahai, and Hanalei Bay. Today, we reflect on her extraordinary life and deep connection to Kauai.

Remembering Mitzi Gaynor’s return to Kauai.

Mitzi Gaynor first came to Kauai in 1957, during which South Pacific was filmed in some of the island’s most picturesque locations for over nine weeks. The production faced challenges, including unpredictable weather and a tidal wave, but Kauai provided the perfect backdrop for this iconic movie musical.

Mount Makana, overlooking Tunnels Beach, stood in for the mystical Bali Hai, and Lumahai Beach became the site of one of the film’s most memorable scenes shown below, where Mitzi sang “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair.” Hanalei Bay also played a key role in the film’s lush visuals and opening scenes.

Gaynor’s return to Kauai in 2009 to mark the 50th anniversary of the film was a momentous occasion for locals and fans alike. We gathered at the former Kauai Marriott (now Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort), where she reminisced about her time on the island and shared personal stories from her illustrious career.

An audience member, Lisa, told us, “She was still so full of life, and you could see how much Kauai meant to her. I loved how she interacted with the audience, telling stories about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and her impressions of fellow stars like Marilyn Monroe.”

Kauai: the heart of South Pacific.

South Pacific was not just another film made on Kauai; it was a significant part of the island’s history. The movie helped put Kauai on the map as a filming location and vacation destination long before its lush landscapes were featured in other films like Jurassic Park and The Descendants.

Hanalei Bay and Lumahai Beach became must-visit spots for film fans, with travelers often seeking places where Mitzi once sang, danced, and brought her indomitable spirit to the big screen.

A Kauai resident, Joe, commented on Beat of Hawaii, “We grew up with South Pacific, and it’s always been a point of pride that such a famous film was shot here. I even remember my parents talking about the excitement of seeing the film crew on the island. Mitzi Gaynor was always a part of that memory.”

Mitzi’s fondness for Kauai extended beyond the movie. When we asked why it took her 50 years to return, she admitted that she had hesitated for fear of reliving the memories too vividly.

Yet, when she did return, she expressed nothing but grace and gratitude for how the island had remained as welcoming and beautiful as ever. She mentioned how she was moved by the spirit of giving she encountered on Kauai, describing the people as having a generosity that touched her deeply.

Mitzi Gaynor’s thoughts on Kauai and the Coco Palms Resort.

During her 2009 visit, Mitzi also reflected on the changes Kauai had undergone over the decades, both in the natural landscape and in its cultural heritage. She was particularly saddened by the state of the legendary Coco Palms Hotel, where she and the film crew had stayed during the production of South Pacific. In its heyday, the Coco Palms was the hub for visiting stars, production companies, and anyone who wanted to experience Grace Gusslander’s legendary essence of Kauai.

The enduring legacy of the movie South Pacific.

South Pacific continues to draw fans worldwide to Kauai, with its timeless music and the scenic splendor of the island on full display. As Mitzi herself noted, the movie’s popularity is partly due to its relatable story, set against the backdrop of World War II, and to its unforgettable score, including songs that remain beloved today.

Mitzi credited her role in South Pacific as one of the most defining of her career. In interviews, she often spoke of how her involvement in the film was, in fact, serendipitous.

She also shared how filming the “Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair” scene almost stopped when the shampoo she used irritated her eyes. Thanks to a last-minute shopping trip to a local Lihue store for No Tears baby shampoo, the shoot was saved, and the scene became one of the most iconic in the film.

A lasting tribute to Mitzi Gaynor.

Mitzi Gaynor’s impact on the entertainment world and the island of Kauai is undeniable. Her energy, humor, and talent inspire generations of performers and fans. Kauai, in particular, holds a special place in remembering her not only as the star of South Pacific, but also as a person who loved and respected the island’s unique culture and people.

Beat of Hawaii will always remember Mitzi as part of Kauai’s history. Upon meeting her on her last visit, she wasn’t just an actress in a movie filmed here—she became a part of the island.

Her death leaves a rich legacy of films, but her presence can forever be felt on the beaches of Haena, Lumahai, and Hanalei Bay, where her voice and spirit remain eternal.

We welcome your thoughts!