Aside from the traditional tell-tale signs of the summer (shorts and sandals, beach trips, bonfires, etc.), nothing says “vacation vibes” quite like a chilled alcoholic beverage on your hand. That’s right, it’s that magical time of year when your Instagram feed is jam-packed with your friends’ beach day posts, complete with the most outrageous and colorful of boozy concoctions. And, while you may have your go-to all geared up and ready to order at the tiki bar, these seriously sweet sips can give even the most coveted summertime favorites a run for their money. Here are 10 creative cocktails to snap that will easily make you the star of your followers’ feeds:
1. The Mermaid Mule
Undeniably, 2017 was the year of unicorn everything. But this summer marks the emergence of the Mermaid Mule! This modern take on the classic Russian favorite has the same ginger beer-vodka-lime combination as the traditional drink, with a fun splash of blue curacao for a truly *enchanting* twist. Serve it up at your grad party or conjure up a batch before you hit the beach with your sister sirens!
2. Rum Fruit Punch
Contrary to popular belief, fruit punch isn’t just for the youngsters anymore. Spike this tangy drink with two types of rum and add a splash of grenadine for a ruby-red spritzer that will be a major throwback to your Wahoo Punch days.
3. POPS Alcoholic Ice Pops
Introducing the COOLEST way to get drunk on the beach this summer. These frozen sips are jam-packed with favorites like Champagne and Peach Prosecco, all in the convenience of a portable pop! While POPS are only available in the UK currently, their yummy idea has traveled across the pond and has sparked many U.S. brands to start incorporating these into their product line.
4. Malibu Bay Breeze
Why mess with perfection? This tried-and-true summer beverage is a staple at the boardwalk bar scene for most beach-goers. Paired with Malibu coconut rum, this mix of cranberry and pineapple juice definitely still reigns as Queen of the Summer Sips.
5. SpikedSeltzer
Don’t feel like paying for a mixed drink? Sugary-sweet cocktails aren’t really your thaaang? Look no further than SpikedSeltzer‘s line of citrus-y hard bottled drinks! It’s hard to deny that these are a major upgrade from your run-of-the-mill Mike’s Hard Lemonade or wine cooler. Plus, they’re gluten-free!
6. Pineapple Rum Punch
Here’s one for the most die-hard of pineapple fans! This sweet mixer is a literal island vacation in a glass. Pair the dynamic duo of Malibu coconut rum and pineapple juice with bubbly ginger ale to achieve this bright, sunny refresher. With this golden drink in tow on your next beach escape, there’s literally #nobaddays.
7. Frozen Pineapple and Dragon Fruit Margarita
So, quick poll: who doesn’t like a frosty, refreshing frozen drink in a glass while lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun? That’s what I thought. This unique blend of frozen dragon fruit and pineapple is super easy to make and makes for one insanely gorgeous magenta sip that your followers will be beyond jealous of.
8. Frozen Watermelon Daiquiri
Take advantage of watermelon szn by throwing a few into your drink! Blend up frozen watermelon cubes with some rum, lime, and simple syrup for a fresh and boozy icy treat that you can’t help but toast to (in a Boomerang, obviously).
9. Shark Attack Margarita
This is a total must-try for a beach day that is immediately followed by catching the latest installment of Shark Week or a Jaws rerun. Turn your beverage into a masterpiece when you skillfully marble blue curacao and grenadine into a colorful piece of cinematic art. Top the whole thing with a decorative “hungry” shark for a drink that is just as terrifying as it is tipsy.
10. Pina Colada Sangria
This isn’t your mom’s red wine sangria. Replace the dark vino for some white and skip the oranges and apples when you opt for pineapple cubes and maraschino cherries! The result? A taste of the tropics that’s fit for a day on the sand.