When you think of getting away on a cruise to the Caribbean, you’re likely looking forward to enjoying the waves, the sand and the sun on beautiful beaches like those on Perfect Day at CocoCay and other island gems. And you may also picture your favorite tropical drink—or two—by your side!
We’ve collected some of the best tropical cocktails you can enjoy during your next Caribbean vacation, whether to The Bahamas, Barbados, Puerto Rico or anywhere else!
These recipes are guaranteed to bring all the island vibes to your tastebuds.
With the sweet guava and tangy pineapple notes, the Coco Loco is a must-try while visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
Coco Loco
Enjoy a Bahamian escape in moments—an all-in-one tropical frozen drink mix makes it easy. Just blend together 1.25 ounces dark rum, 4 ounces Nestle Tropical Frozen Mix (Pineapple, Guava and Papaya, of course) and crushed ice. Speaking of all-in-one tropical escapes, the Coco Loco is the signature drink of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas with something for every kind of traveler—whether you’re seeking thrills or looking to chill. A garnish of fresh pineapple takes this drink to the next level, while paper umbrellas are encouraged.
Fun fact: The Michelada is often known as the Mexican Bloody Mary.
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Michelada
This cocktail is a taste of Mexico in a glass. First thing’s first, sprinkle salt on a small plate. Rub the rim of your glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into the salt. Combine 2 ounces tomato juice, 1 ounce lime juice, a half ounce hot sauce, one-fourth ounce Worcestershire sauce, a half teaspoon Tajin Clasico spice mix, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Now, fill your glass three-quarters full with ice and add the tomato juice mixture. Top it with a pale lager (like Modelo) and enjoy with another lime wedge.
The Aruba Ariba, first invented in 1963, is now the signature cocktail of the beautiful island.
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Aruba Ariba
As the name suggests, this tropical cocktail is perfect for sipping while on Aruba’s beaches. Combine a half ounce vodka, a half ounce 151-proof rum, one-eighth ounce creme de banana and a half cup orange juice and cranberry juice each into a cocktail shaker with crushed ice. Shake for one to two minutes. Pour everything into a glass with ice, and top it with a splash of Grand Marnier and a splash of grenadine. Garnish with an orange slice and maraschino cherry. Now, enjoy this tropical beverage!
Rum punch is one of the oldest mixed-drink recipes of all time, with references of the cocktail dating back to the 1600s.
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Rum Punch
This classic drink is enjoyed broadly across Caribbean destinations—a simple recipe sure to please. Combine 1.5 ounces rum and 2 ounces each of pineapple and orange juice in a tall glass over ice. Stir and then splash in some grenadine. Pop on a slice of pineapple or lime and you’re good to go! Feel free to use light or dark rum—whichever you prefer.
Mojitos, first born in Cuba, reportedly saw a spike in sales after being featured in the 2002 James Bond film “Die Another Day.”
Credit: UNSPLASH
Mojito
A refreshing classic that lets you practice your muddling skills. For prepping simple syrup, simply heat 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water until dissolved. If you’re feeling ambitious, steep 1 cup mint leaves in it for 15-30 minutes as well after shutting off the heat. Strain your fancy minty syrup into a jar and then add a little to your mojito, made from 1.5 ounces Bacardi Superior Rum, lime wedges and club soda to top it off.
In the 1980s, Florida bartender Ted Pizio took on a challenge to sell the most peach schnapps in his area—and his Sex on the Beach recipe did the trick.
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Sex on the Beach
A fruity concoction of juices and liquors to whisk you away to a tropical vacation—whichever one of the Caribbean islands is right for you. Start by combining 1.25 ounces Absolut Vodka, three-fourths ounce Peach Scnapps, 3 ounces orange juice, 3 ounces cranberry juice. Add some lime wheel and cherry garnish and enjoy!
After famous rock band The Eagles released their 1973 hit song “Tequila Sunrise,” the cocktail’s popularity soared.
Credit: UNSPLASH
Tequila Sunrise
This colorful drink is yet another simple, tropical go-to cocktail. Mix in 1.5 ounces 1800 Reposado Tequila, 4 ounces orange juice, a half ounce Grenadine and an orange wheel and cherry for garnish.
Dreaming about having one of these tropical cocktails on a Caribbean beach? Head here to book your next island escape!
