Your Tropical Vibes Guide to Cocktails
Sadly, we can’t always sink our toes in the sound while enjoying the waves crashing against the shore. That’s why we’re always looking for small ways to bring us that “I’m on vacation” feeling. And, in our opinion, the perfect way to find it is through a fun tropical drink.
With an exotic cocktail in hand, every sip transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of your favorite island retreat. Whether you're lounging by the pool, hosting a vibrant party, or simply winding down after a long day, a tropical cocktail can turn any moment into a mini-vacation.
So grab your shaker and your best Hawaiian shirt, because we're about to embark on a journey through the art of tropical mixology where the vibes are always easy, breezy, and a little bit tipsy!
Classic Tropical Cocktails
If you open up a cocktail menu, you can be pretty confident that you will find these timeless concoctions. They’re not only delicious but also steeped in history and tradition. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a casual enthusiast, mastering these classics will turn any gathering into a festive tropical escape.
1. Piña Colada
The Piña Colada was officially declared the national drink of Puerto Rico in 1978. However, its origin is disputed, with multiple bartenders from Puerto Rico claiming to have invented it during the 1950s. It even has its own national day on July 10th!
The Piña Colada is a sweet, creamy concoction of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, blended or shaken to frosty perfection. Originating from Puerto Rico, this drink is a vacation in a glass. To make your own:
- Combine 2 oz of light or white rum, 1 oz of coconut cream, and 1 oz of pineapple juice in a blender.
- Add ice and blend until smooth.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry.
2. Mai Tai
The name "Mai Tai" comes from the Tahitian word "maita'i," which means "good" or "excellence." The cocktail was allegedly invented by Trader Vic in 1944 in Oakland, California. He created it for some friends visiting from Tahiti who exclaimed "Mai Tai - Roa Ae," translating to "Out of this world - the best!"
A vibrant cocktail with a tiki flair, the Mai Tai combines rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, offering a tantalizing taste of Polynesian culture. Here’s how to make it:
- Shake 1.5 oz of white rum, 0.5 oz of dark rum, 0.75 oz lime juice, 0.5 oz orange curaçao, and 0.25 oz orgeat syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint.
3. Mojito
The Mojito might trace its roots back to the 16th century when it was believed to be a medicinal drink named "El Draque," after Sir Francis Drake. It was thought to counteract tropical illnesses, made with ingredients that were available in the Caribbean, including aguardiente, a crude form of rum.
Though not exclusively tropical, the Mojito’s refreshing mix of mint, lime, sugar, white rum, and soda water offers a cool respite on a hot beach day. To whip up a Mojito:
- Muddle mint leaves and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a glass.
- Add the juice of one lime and 2 oz of white rum.
- Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water.
- Stir well and garnish with more mint.
4. Bahama Mama
The Bahama Mama is sometimes called the "Bahamas in a glass" due to its colorful layers that mimic the island's vibrant sunsets. The cocktail is relatively modern, believed to have been concocted in the late 20th century as a tourist attraction.
Packing a fruity punch, the Bahama Mama combines dark rum, coconut rum, and a blend of fresh juices to bring the taste of the Bahamas to your doorstep. Make it like this:
- In a shaker, combine 1 oz dark rum, 0.75 oz coconut rum, 0.5 oz grenadine, 1 oz orange juice, and 1 oz pineapple juice.
- Shake with ice and strain into an ice-filled glass.
- Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry.
The Tropical Vibes Rum Twist
When you’re in the mood for a touch of island luxury, Tropical Vibes Rum delivers the perfect blend of smoothness and exotic flavors. It’s also the perfect base for some unique tropical cocktails. Here are some concoctions to try:
Island Breeze
Combine 2 oz Tropical Vibes Rum with fresh lime juice, a dash of agave syrup, and muddled mint leaves. Shake well, strain over crushed ice, and garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime for a refreshing drink that feels like a cool island wind.
Caribbean Spiced Toddy
Warm up with this twist on a classic hot toddy, using 2 oz Tropical Vibes Rum, 1 tablespoon of honey, 4 oz of hot water, and a squeeze of orange. Stir in a cinnamon stick and a few cloves for that spiced, soothing flavor that's perfect for a chilly evening.