From pool parties to outdoor brunch, there are plenty of opportunities to kick back and relax this summer. Summer cocktails are refreshing in the warm weather, often featuring seasonal fruit, citrus, fresh herbs and plenty of ice to keep every sip cool.
Explore the best cocktails of the summer in this complete guide.
Light and bubbly summer cocktails
1. Aperol Spritz
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
The Aperol spritz is a refreshing mix of Aperol, prosecco and soda water with a bright citrus flavor and a bubbly finish. It's an easy cocktail to serve at brunch, by the pool or during happy hour.
2. Tom Collins
Type of drink: Gin cocktails
When the summer heat rolls in, the Tom Collins provides a cooling respite with its crisp, fizzy finish. Gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and club soda combine for a bright citrus cocktail with a touch of sweetness.
3. French 75
Type of drink: Gin cocktails
Named after the gun the French used during World War I, this gin and Champagne cocktail has a kick of flavor, balanced with the sweetness of lemon juice and simple syrup. Enjoy a French 75 during a homemade brunch or summer outing.
4. Limoncello spritz
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
This sparkling cocktail brings a bright lemon flavor and bubbly finish to any summer gathering. The Italian liqueur limoncello gives the drink a citrusy base, while sparkling wine and seltzer add a light, refreshing touch.
5. Bellini
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
With its peachy flavor and golden hue, a Bellini feels like summer in a glass. Fresh peach purée and Champagne come together for a sweet and subtle cocktail that's a natural fit for slow mornings, sunny afternoons or celebrations.
6. Mimosa
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
Made with just sparkling wine and orange juice, a mimosa keeps things simple while delivering plenty of seasonal flavor. The combination makes it a go-to choice for slow brunches and sunny summer get-togethers.
7. Pimm's cup
Type of drink: Gin cocktails
A Pimm’s cup is a sparkling, fruity cocktail perfect for filling a pitcher for a summer party. To make it, you’ll need Pimm’s No. 1 (a gin-based liqueur), ginger ale, fresh fruit, mint and lemon juice.
8. Gin Fizz
Type of drink: Gin cocktails
The Gin Fizz stands out for its airy texture and citrus flavor. Gin, lemon juice, sugar and soda water create the foundation for this refreshing cocktail, while an unpasteurized egg white adds a silky foam and smooth finish that makes each sip feel a little more indulgent.
9. Lemon Shandy
Type of drink: Beer cocktails
Elevate your favorite beer by turning it into a lemon shandy. All you have to do is combine equal parts beer and lemonade to enjoy a refreshing drink.
10. Radlers
Type of drink: Beer cocktails
A radler is a beer cocktail made by combining beer with a citrus soda or juice. The lighter alcohol content and zesty flavor make it a popular choice for summer afternoons when you want something light and sippable.
Bold and tropical summer cocktails
11. Mai Tai
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
The Mai Tai has long been associated with tiki culture, bringing a taste of the tropics to cocktail menus around the world. Made with rum, lime juice, orange curaçao and orgeat syrup, this island-inspired drink balances citrus flavors with a hint of almond sweetness.
12. Bahama Mama
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
The Bahama Mama is packed with tropical flavor thanks to coconut rum, dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice and grenadine. Its fruity taste makes it a natural fit for days when you want to sit poolside or sink your toes in the sand.
13. Painkiller
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
Despite its bold name, the Painkiller is all about tropical flavor. This rum cocktail combines dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice and cream of coconut for a rich, fruity drink that's perfect for beach days and poolside sipping.
14. Zombie
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
The Zombie is a summer drink that packs a punch. This tiki cocktail combines multiple types of rum with fruit juices, grenadine, bitters and tropical flavors for a complex drink with a reputation for strength. Sip slowly, or you might just wake up feeling like a zombie.
15. Caipirinha
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
A Caipirinha is Brazil’s national drink, and it only requires three ingredients. The star of the drink is cachaça, a Brazilian distilled liquor. With a little lime and sugar, everything comes together to create a refreshing and flavorful drink.
16. Cuba Libre
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
Originating in Cuba in the early 1900s, the Cuba Libre is a great way to incorporate fizz and sweetness into your summer. To make it, just pour a simple rum and Coke and dress it up with lime juice and bitters.
17. Sunset punch
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
This rum-based sunset punch is always a crowd-pleaser. It combines grenadine, white rum, Campari, pineapple, lime and ginger beer. Serve it in a punch bowl with freshly sliced pineapple rounds floating on top.
18. Coconut margarita
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
This tropical spin on a classic margarita adds both coconut cream and coconut milk into the mix. With tequila, lime juice, triple sec, agave nectar and coconut flakes for a garnish, this coconut margarita will have you feeling like you’re lounging by the sea.
Fruity and refreshing summer cocktails
19. Spicy blackberry margarita
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
A spicy blackberry margarita adds a seasonal twist to a favorite tequila cocktail. Fresh blackberries bring a hint of sweetness, while jalapeño or another spicy ingredient adds a little heat for a drink with a bold flavor profile.
20. Paloma
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Have you met the margarita’s delicious cousin, the paloma? This tequila cocktail is packed with grapefruit and has just the right amount of sweetness. Sip this tart drink with spicy or salty foods for a nice contrast.
21. Tequila Sunrise
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Tequila and orange juice are a delicious, refreshing combination that makes the ultimate summer cocktail. Add a splash of grenadine for a bit of sweetness and a beautiful color that makes your tequila sunrise cocktail look like a vibrant sunrise.
22. Watermelon martini
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
This watermelon martini practically screams “summer.” The mixture of fresh watermelon, mint, vodka and orange liqueur offers just the right amount of sweetness for the fruity flavor to shine.
23. Berry vodka smash
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
This fruity and refreshing vodka cocktail is made with muddled raspberries and strawberries, blackberry jam, honey syrup, lemon juice and fresh rosemary. The mix of citrus, herbs and fresh fruit makes this berry vodka smash a standout warm-weather drink.
24. Strawberry vodka lemonade
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
This light, fruity vodka recipe starts with muddled strawberries. Add some ice and a shot of vodka, then top it with lemonade.
25. Bay Breeze
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
The Bay Breeze balances tart cranberry juice with sweet pineapple juice for a cocktail that's fruity without being overly sweet. Vodka ties the flavors together, making this a simple drink that's easy to mix whenever the mood strikes.
26. Blackberry mojito
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
Craving the balance of tart and sweet that only summer blackberries can deliver? Check out this blackberry mojito. You’ll muddle mint and blackberries before adding the rum and lime juice.
Skipping the rum makes this recipe one of the most delicious summer mocktails.
27. Cucumber margarita
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Adding cucumber to this margarita recipe makes it an incredibly refreshing summer cocktail. You can give it a spicy kick by adding some jalapeño, or sweeten it up with a bit of agave nectar.
28. Grapefruit margarita
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Ruby red grapefruit, orange liquor and tequila are a winning combination for the summer. Add a splash of grenadine to this grapefruit margarita recipe for a beautiful color and a touch of sweetness.
29. Cosmopolitan
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
A cosmo is an elegant choice for a birthday outing, dinner party or any occasion that calls for a little glamour. Really, any event that needs a little glamour. It’s made with vodka (regular or lemon), tart cranberry juice, a hint of orange from the triple sec and some zest from the freshly squeezed lime juice.
30. Salty Dog
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
One of the most refreshing and easy summer cocktails with vodka is the salty dog, which is a mix of vodka, grapefruit juice, lime juice and grapefruit-flavored sparkling water. It’s served over ice in a glass with a salted rim.
31. Spicy margarita
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Give your margarita a bit of a kick by adding jalapeño peppers or jalapeño-infused simple syrup. Pair your spicy margarita with tortilla chips and salsa for a delightful summer treat.
32. White wine sangria
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
Put a unique spin on a classic red wine sangria. Just add a dry white wine and combine with brandy, club soda and fresh fruit for an easy-to-share pitcher of crisp, fruity flavor.
Backyard barbecue and cookout cocktails
33. Moscow mule
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
When searching for summer cocktail recipes, you can’t go wrong with a Moscow mule. One sip of the fresh lime, ginger beer and vodka, and you’ll want to drink this cocktail all summer long.
34. Irish mule
Type of drink: Whiskey cocktails
This twist on a Moscow mule replaces the vodka with whiskey. For an Irish mule, you’ll need Irish whiskey, lime juice and ginger beer served in a copper mule mug.
35. Reverend Palmer
Type of drink: Whiskey cocktails
A Reverend Palmer melds the flavors of an Old Fashioned and a spiked Arnold Palmer. One of the most unique summer cocktails on our list, the Reverend Palmer includes bourbon infused with lupine tea, lemon simple syrup and Angostura bitters.
36. Michelada
Type of drink: Beer cocktails
A Michelada incorporates beer, lime juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and tomato juice. This Mexican cocktail is spicy, savory and excellent for a summer brunch.
37. Ranch water
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Stay cool on those hot summer days with ranch water. This tequila and lime cocktail tastes even better when paired with spicy food!
38. Whiskey smash
Type of drink: Whiskey cocktails
The whiskey smash proves that a handful of fresh ingredients can go a long way. Lemon and mint soften the whiskey's bold flavor for a cocktail that feels right at home alongside burgers, ribs and anything fresh off the grill.
39. Bourbon lemonade
Type of drink: Bourbon cocktails
Bourbon lemonade balances the caramel notes of bourbon with the tartness of fresh lemonade. Serve it over ice for a simple cocktail that complements burgers, barbecue and other cookout favorites.
40. Sparkling vodka fruit punch
Type of drink: Vodka cocktails
Serve a sparkling vodka fruit punch at a party or enjoy it during a relaxed summer gathering. This fruity drink is full of juices, sliced fruits, mint and soda.
41. Citrus mint champagne punch
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
This citrus mint punch cocktail combines mint syrup, lemon and lime juices, gin and Champagne. It’s perfect for those who crave summer cocktails with mint.
42. Batch sangrias
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
Batch sangria is an easy way to serve cocktails to a crowd. Mix your favorite red, white or rosé wine with fresh fruit and let the flavors mingle. Pour the mixture into a pitcher so the flavors can continue to develop until guests are ready for refills.
43. Rum punch
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
Rum punch blends rum with fruit juices for a colorful cocktail that's easy to make by the pitcher. Customize it with your favorite citrus or tropical fruits to suit the occasion and the flavors you enjoy most.
Frozen summer cocktails
44. Strawberry daiquiri
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
A frozen strawberry daiquiri blends ripe strawberries, rum, lime juice and ice into a smooth cocktail with a balance of sweetness and citrus. It's a great way to make the most of fresh summer berries.
45. Piña colada
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
If you're craving tropical flavors, a piña colada is an easy, crowd-pleasing choice. Easily make one at home with rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut and ice.
46. Frozen raspberry margarita
Type of drink: Tequila cocktails
Blend sweet and tart raspberries with orange, lime, tequila and a bit of sugar for a refreshing summer drink. It's perfect for sipping next to the pool on a hot day.
47. Frosé (frozen rosé)
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
You and your friends will love to “rosé all day” with this delicious frosé recipe. Blend frozen strawberries, simple syrup, ice and pink wine. This summer cocktail tastes similar to a strawberry daiquiri with slightly less sweetness.
48. Miami Vice
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
The Miami Vice combines two favorite summer cocktails — a strawberry daiquiri and a piña colada — to create this refreshing drink. Cool off this summer season with this frozen cocktail, and don’t forget to garnish with a strawberry and a slice of pineapple.
49. Bushwacker
Type of drink: Rum cocktails
This drink is basically a cross between a chocolate milkshake and a piña colada. It’s frosty, sweet and oh-so-decadent. This Bushwacker summer cocktail is made with aged rum, coffee liqueur, creme de cacao, cream of coconut, milk and ice.
50. Frozen Aperol Spritz
Type of drink: Wine and Champagne cocktails
A frozen Aperol spritz gives the popular cocktail a slushy twist. Aperol, sparkling wine and ice create a citrus-forward drink with a smooth texture that's a little different from the traditional version.
Easy summer mocktails
51. Virgin Moscow mule
Type of drink: Mocktails
A virgin Moscow mule delivers the same zingy flavor as the original without the vodka. Add fresh lime juice and serve over plenty of ice for a mocktail that doesn't feel like an afterthought.
52. Virgin mojito
Type of drink: Mocktails
Few drinks capture the feeling of summer like a mojito. This alcohol-free mocktail recipe combines mint, lime and sparkling water for a drink that's just as enjoyable to sip all afternoon.
53. Sparkling lemonade
Type of drink: Mocktails
Homemade lemonade gets a little extra personality with a splash of sparkling water. Garnish with fresh berries, herbs or citrus slices to dress it up for guests.
54. Arnold Palmer
Type of drink: Mocktails
The Arnold Palmer has earned a spot at countless cookouts for good reason. Equal parts iced tea and lemonade create a familiar drink that complements everything from barbecue to picnic fare.
55. Cucumber mint cooler
Type of drink: Mocktails
Cool cucumber and fragrant mint make this mocktail feel right at home on a warm afternoon. A squeeze of lime ties the flavors together without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
56. Watermelon spritzer
Type of drink: Mocktails
Fresh watermelon gives this spritzer its naturally sweet flavor and vibrant color. Blend it with lime juice and sparkling water for a drink that lets the fruit take center stage.
57. Tropical fruit punch
Type of drink: Mocktails
A big bowl or pitcher of tropical fruit punch is a simple way to serve a crowd. Pineapple, orange and other fruit juices come together for a sweet, fruity drink that feels right at home at summer celebrations.
58. Blackberry lime mocktail
Type of drink: Mocktails
Sweet blackberries and tart lime are a natural match. Muddle the berries before topping with sparkling water to create a drink that's just as eye-catching as it is flavorful.
59. NA ranch water
Type of drink: Mocktails
The alcohol-free version of ranch water sticks to the drink's simple roots. Sparkling mineral water and fresh lime deliver a clean, uncomplicated mocktail that's easy to mix whenever the mood strikes.
Cool down with tasty summer cocktails
Need a bit of refreshment on a hot summer day? It’s easy to whip up these summer cocktails without ever leaving your house! Order all the ingredients you need to make these drinks through Instacart. Add ingredients to your online cart and let your professional shopper handle the rest.
With grocery and alcohol delivery through Instacart, you’re free to experiment with all kinds of drink recipes any time you want.
Disclaimer: Alcohol delivery is available where permitted by local law. Age verification required at delivery.
FAQs about summer cocktails
What are the most popular summer cocktails?
Popular summer cocktails often feature seasonal fruit, citrus flavors and lighter spirits. Some popular summertime cocktails include a classic margarita, Aperol spritz, paloma, mojito and Moscow Mule.
What are some fun beachy drinks?
Beachy drinks often lean into tropical flavors and playful presentation. Piña coladas, Mai Tais, rum punches, Shark Attacks and frozen cocktails are popular choices thanks to ingredients like pineapple, coconut, citrus and rum. To make them feel even more festive, serve drinks in fun cups or add colorful garnishes like fruit skewers, cocktail umbrellas or fresh fruit slices.
What is a hot girl summer drink?
The Hot Girl Summer cocktail combines vodka, dragon fruit, tropical juice and edible gold dust for a colorful drink with extra flair.
But anything that feels stylish and fun qualifies as a hot girl summer drink. Some other cocktails to try include an espresso martini, The Empress Butterfly Sour, rosé-based cocktails and the Blackberry & Sage Gimlet.
What are the best fizzy mixers for summer cocktails?
Club soda, tonic water, ginger beer and sparkling water are popular mixers for summer cocktails. They add carbonation without overpowering the other ingredients and work well with spirits like vodka, gin, tequila and rum.
What are some popular beer cocktails for summer?
Popular beer cocktails include Micheladas, Radlers and shandies. These drinks combine beer with ingredients like citrus juice, soda or spices to create options that are easy to sip and serve.
What canned cocktails are trending this summer?
Canned cocktails continue to grow in popularity because they’re convenient and easy to bring to outdoor events. Popular options include canned margaritas, ranch waters, vodka sodas, hard teas and spritzes.
