- Nellie Forbush: A young American nurse stationed on a South Pacific island during World War II. She falls in love with Emile de Becque, a French plantation owner.
- Emile de Becque: A French plantation owner and former naval officer. He is a widower with two children, and he falls in love with Nellie Forbush.
- Bloody Mary: A local woman who lives on the island and sells souvenirs to the American sailors. She is also a matchmaker and helps Nellie and Emile get together.
- Luther Billis: A cynical American sailor who is stationed on the island. He is a friend of Nellie's and tries to help her get together with Emile.
- Joe Cable: A young American soldier who is stationed on the island. He falls in love with Liat, a young Polynesian woman.
- Liat: A young Polynesian woman who is the daughter of Bloody Mary. She falls in love with Joe Cable.
Supporting Characters:
- Commander William Harbison: The commanding officer of the American naval base on the island.
- Captain George Brackett: The executive officer of the American naval base on the island.
- Lieutenant Cable: Joe Cable's father.
- Henry: Emile's young son.
- Robert: Emile's young daughter.