Summer is synonymous with sunshine, laughter, and staying cool. And what better way to quench your thirst and elevate your enjoyment than with a refreshing summer drink?
Whether you’re poolside, hosting a backyard BBQ, or simply unwinding on a hot afternoon, this list has something for everyone.
From classic cocktails to non-alcoholic delights, we’ve got 25 summer drinks to keep you hydrated and your taste buds tingling.
Boozy Brews for Grown-Up Gatherings:
Perfect Piña Colada:
This tropical paradise in a glass combines rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and a hint of sweetness for a creamy and delicious escape.
Paloma with Fresh Grapefruit Juice:
This tequila-based cocktail is a celebration of citrus. Grapefruit juice, lime juice, a splash of soda water, and a salted rim create a refreshingly tart and vibrant drink.
Mint Julep:
Steeped in tradition, the mint julep is perfect for a summer soiree. Simple yet sophisticated, it features bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice for a cool and invigorating experience.
Classic Margarita:
A timeless crowd-pleaser, the margarita offers a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and sour. Tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and a salted rim create an iconic summer staple.
Mai Tai:
Transport yourself to a Polynesian paradise with this rum-based delight. Mai Tai combines dark rum, light rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, lime juice, and a touch of almond for a complex and flavorful drink.
Negroni Sbagliato:
This lighter twist on the classic Negroni is perfect for a hot summer day. It swaps gin for bubbly prosecco, resulting in a refreshing and slightly sweet take on the Italian favorite.
Tequila Sunrise:
A feast for the eyes and the palate, the tequila sunrise layers tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, creating a stunning visual effect and a citrusy, sweet, and tart taste sensation.
Sparkling Amaretto Sour:
This delightful twist on the sour family combines amaretto, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of soda water for a sweet, citrusy, and bubbly drink.
Fruity and Fun Non-Alcoholic Options:
Watermelon Limeade:
This vibrant and refreshing drink is perfect for a hot day. Watermelon, lime juice, a touch of sugar, and some sparkling water create a thirst-quenching and naturally sweet beverage.
Strawberry Basil Lemonade:
This delightful combination bursts with summer flavors. Muddle fresh strawberries and basil with lemon juice and sugar, then top with water or sparkling water for a beautiful and flavorful drink.
Hibiscus Iced Tea:
Steep hibiscus flowers in hot water for a beautiful ruby red tea that’s naturally tart and refreshing. Add a touch of honey or simple syrup for sweetness, and enjoy it chilled.
Sparkling Raspberry Peach Mocktail:
This bubbly beverage is bursting with summer fruit flavors. Combine muddled raspberries and peaches with sparkling water, lime juice, and a touch of mint for a refreshing and festive drink.
Frozen Mango Lassi:
This creamy and tangy yogurt-based drink is a popular Indian beverage, perfect for a hot day. Mangoes, yogurt, cardamom, a touch of honey, and ice create a cool and flavorful treat.
Cucumber Mint Spa Water:
Infuse water with sliced cucumber and fresh mint for a naturally refreshing and subtly flavored drink. This is a fantastic option for those seeking a simple and healthy beverage.
Sparkling Strawberry Kiwi Punch:
This vibrant punch is perfect for a crowd. Combine muddled strawberries and kiwi with sparkling water, lime juice, and a touch of sugar for a beautiful and flavorful party drink.
Frozen Treats to Beat the Heat:
Boozy Watermelon Slushie:
This adult take on a childhood favorite is perfect for a poolside party. Blend watermelon, rum, lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup for a frozen and boozy treat.
Piña Colada Smoothie:
This non-alcoholic twist on the classic Piña Colada is a healthy and delicious frozen treat. Blend frozen pineapple, banana, coconut milk, and a touch of lime juice for a creamy and refreshing smoothie.
Frozen Peach Bellini:
This frozen take on the classic Bellini is perfect for a summer brunch. Blend frozen peaches, prosecco, and a touch of peach nectar for a light, bubbly, and refreshing treat.
Mango Margarita Popsicles:
Freeze your favorite margarita recipe in popsicle molds for a boozy and refreshing summer treat.
Herbal and Refreshing Delights:
Elderflower Spritz:
This light and bubbly drink is a European favorite. Combine elderflower liqueur, prosecco, soda water, and a sprig of fresh mint for a floral, refreshing, and slightly sweet beverage.
Spicy Ginger Margarita:
For those who like a little kick, this margarita variation adds a touch of ginger for a spicy and refreshing twist on the classic. Muddle fresh ginger with your usual margarita ingredients for a unique and flavorful drink.
Lavender Lemonade:
This fragrant and floral lemonade is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Steep dried lavender in hot water for a few minutes, then combine the lavender-infused water with lemon juice, sugar, and water for a calming and refreshing drink.
Sparkling Watermelon Mint Cooler:
This twist on watermelon agua fresca adds a touch of fizz and fresh mint for an extra refreshing experience. Muddle fresh mint with watermelon chunks, then blend with lime juice and a touch of sugar. Top with sparkling water for a bubbly and flavorful drink.
Coffee and Tea Creations:
Iced Vietnamese Coffee:
This strong and creamy coffee drink is perfect for a hot afternoon. Brew strong coffee using a phin filter, then combine it with condensed milk and ice for a sweet and refreshing treat.
Thai Iced Tea:
This vibrantly orange tea is a delicious and refreshing beverage. Steep strong black tea with star anise, orange blossom water, and condensed milk for a sweet, creamy, and flavorful drink, served over ice.
Bonus Tip: No matter what drink you choose, keep a pitcher of water readily available to stay properly hydrated throughout the summer heat.
Cheers to a Cool and Refreshing Summer!
With this diverse selection of summer drinks, you’re sure to find something to quench your thirst and keep the fun flowing all season long. From boozy cocktails to healthy mocktails, frozen treats, and herbal refreshers, there’s a drink here for every occasion and taste bud. So grab your favorite glass, whip up one of these delicious drinks, and enjoy the sunshine!
