Polynesiacs: Tiki at Home

by Tiki Tom-Tom

Have you ever wanted to escape it all in the comfort of your own home? Do you sometimes feel an inordinate enthusiasm for everything Tiki and Pop Polynesian? Have you been accused of collecting way too many Tiki mugs? Do you find yourself longing for fruity and strong drinks adorned with swizzle sticks and cocktail umbrellas? Did someone catch you buying another aloha shirt or obscure bottle of rum? You’re likely a Polynesiac! And this is the elixir for your condition.

Join author and photographer TIKI TOM-TOM on an immersive road trip as he crosses the continental United States to visit 75 home Tiki bars, sharing tales of the slightly obsessed and always fun Polynesiacs who have been inspired to create their own tropical escapes. Step inside these elaborate environments, lovingly created in private homes, gardens, trailers, and boat houses across the country, from New York to California and Washington to Florida.

POLYNESIACS: TIKI AT HOME isn’t a how-to book. Similar to the ancient voyaging mariners who used star charts, winds, and currents to guide their way, this book offers sixteen Navigation Points to help map your journey, inspire you to harness your unique obsessions, and learn from the wisdom and humor of the Polynesiacs who’ve traveled before you as you plan, build, or enhance your home Tiki space.

387 pages, Hardcover

Published May 25, 2023

Reviews

[Dara Grey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing guidebook to tiki bars and the mainland spirit of tiki ohana. I only wish it had more photos of each home tiki bar! - thus the four stars - it's a substantial 386 pages and could have been longer or just a larger format to get in more immersive goodness, in my opinion. Regardless, it's a true guidepost and a treasure of the Americana tiki/Polynesian pop genre. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the subculture generally or, of course, those who want to build out their own home tiki bar.