You don’t need to book a summer vacation to enjoy delicious tropical drinks. Instead, take a tour of the tropics in your own backyard by shaking up some cocktails from these vacation destinations.
Bahama Mama – Bahamas
Is it really a tropical cocktail list without a Bahama Mama? The original version of this fruity beverage blends dark rum, 151 proof rum, coffee liqueur, coconut liqueur, fresh lemon juice and a generous amount of pineapple juice. Modern versions swap out 151 rum for coconut rum and lemon juice for orange juice, ditch the coffee liqueur and add grenadine. Try it frozen for a cool treat.
Rum Punch – Barbados
An island paradise is in your glass with the Barbados Rum Punch. The punch comes from the Indian word “panch,” which means five. This refers to the five ingredients representing sour, sweet, strong, weak and spice. Mix Mount Gay rum (made in Barbados since 1703), simple syrup, water, fresh lime juice, dash of Angostura Bitters and freshly grated nutmeg.
Painkiller – British Virgin Islands
If you can’t physically be at the famed Soggy Dollar Bar to enjoy a real Painkiller, making it yourself at home is the next best thing. Mix rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, orange juice and grated nutmeg, and enjoy. Does the resulting cocktail actually kill pain or increase it? That’s up to you.
Caipirinha – Brazil
The Caipirinha is a traditional Brazilian cocktail similar to Cuba’s mojito. A major difference is that it swaps out rum with cachaca, a popular Brazilian sugar cane liquor. If you want to try something new this summer, combine lime with sugar and gently muddle. Then, add cachaca, stir and serve.
Mojito – Cuba
The classic Cuban Mojito is a sweet, citrusy beverage made with fresh mint, lime juice, sugar and white rum. It’s no surprise why this refreshing drink was Ernest Hemingway’s favorite. The Mojito is the perfect pairing for sitting outside on a warm summer evening.
Piña Colada – Puerto Rico
Piña Coladas, the official beverage of Puerto Rico, are enjoyed worldwide for their sweet, cool, and delicious flavor. They’re easy to make, too. Blend cream of coconut, pineapple juice, white rum and ice to transport yourself to a sandy Caribbean beach.
Margarita – Mexico
You may already make this classic cocktail at home, but shake it up this summer with a variety of flavors. For the traditional version, combine your favorite silver tequila, fresh lime juice, and orange-flavored liqueur in a cocktail shaker. Shake well, then pour into salt-rimmed glasses. Mix in some mango puree or passion fruit juice for a tropical feel, or spice it up with muddled jalapenos or jalapeno tequila.