27 Classic Summer Cocktails to Sip All Season Long

Summer has always been my favorite season – it brings back memories of lazy afternoons in the backyard, gatherings with friends, and moments of pure relaxation on the porch. Nothing complements those sun-filled days quite like a refreshing cocktail in hand. Whether I’m hosting a neighborhood barbecue, lounging by the pool, or unwinding after a busy day with the kids, the perfect summer drink has a magical way of making everyday moments feel special.

Over the years, I’ve collected an assortment of classic summer cocktail recipes that never disappoint. From the crisp Mojitos my friends request again and again, to the vibrant Margaritas that make weekend evenings extra festive, each drink holds a special place in my heart – and my recipe book. Every sip is a reminder of summers past and an invitation to slow down and savor the present.

Today, I’m thrilled to share my tried-and-true collection of 27 classic summer cocktails with you. Each recipe is simple enough to whip up at home but delicious enough to impress your guests – or even just yourself. So grab your favorite glass, pick a recipe, and join me in raising a toast to sunny days, good company, and unforgettable summer memories.

1. Frozen Mango Margarita (Mangarita)

One cocktail I find myself craving every summer is this irresistible Frozen Mango Margarita – or as my friends and I fondly call it, the “Mangarita.” It’s tropical, refreshing, and always transports me to vacation mode, even if I’m just relaxing in my backyard. Whenever I blend up a pitcher of these bright, fruity drinks, it instantly feels like summer has truly arrived.

You can read more about this recipe and get a printable recipe card here.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen mango chunks
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1/2 cup silver tequila
• 1/4 cup triple sec or orange liqueur
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (for extra tang in place of pineapple juice)
• 1-2 tablespoons agave syrup (adjust to taste)
• Lime wedges, for garnish
• Tajín seasoning or coarse salt, for rimming (optional)

Instructions:

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip it in Tajín or salt to coat, if desired.
2. In a blender, combine the frozen mango chunks, ice cubes, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness with more agave if desired.
3. Pour the frozen margarita into the prepared glasses. Garnish with a lime wedge.

2. Spicy Margarita

When I’m in the mood for something with a little kick, this Spicy Margarita is my absolute favorite. The blend of tart lime, smooth tequila, and just the right amount of jalapeño heat makes this cocktail exciting and memorable. Trust me – once you’ve tried this fiery twist on the classic margarita, you’ll be hooked just like I am!

You can read more about this recipe and get a printable recipe card here.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz tequila (silver or reposado)
• 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
• 2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 oz agave syrup or simple syrup
• 2-3 slices of fresh jalapeño (adjust to taste)
• 1-2 dashes of hot sauce (optional for extra heat)
• Tajín or chili salt, for rim
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedges, for garnish
• Jalapeño slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass.
2. Dip the rim into a plate of Tajín or chili salt to coat.
3. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, agave syrup, jalapeño slices, and hot sauce if using.
4. Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to chill and infuse the jalapeño flavor.
5. Fill the prepared glasses with fresh ice.
6. Strain the margarita mixture into the glasses.
7. Add a lime wedge and a slice of jalapeño to each glass for garnish.
8. Sip and savor the perfect balance of heat and citrusy zing!

3. Moscow Mule

There’s something about a Moscow Mule that always feels refreshing, no matter how hot it gets outside. The combination of zesty lime, spicy ginger beer, and crisp vodka served in an ice-cold copper mug is just perfection. I love making these for summer gatherings – they’re easy to mix up and always a crowd favorite!

You can read more about this recipe and get a printable recipe card here.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• 4 oz ginger beer (preferably a spicy ginger beer for extra kick)
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel or wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add a handful of ice cubes to your favorite glass.
2. Pour vodka and freshly squeezed lime juice over the ice.
3. Slowly pour ginger beer into the glass, filling it.
4. Gently stir to combine flavors without losing the fizz.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, and serve immediately.

4. Spanish Sangria

Spanish Sangria is my go-to when I want a cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is to sip. The mix of red wine, fresh fruit, and a splash of brandy creates a drink that’s both bold and refreshing – perfect for warm summer evenings. I love making a big pitcher ahead of time so the flavors can meld together, making every glass even more delicious!

You can read more about this recipe and get a printable recipe card here.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) of dry red wine (preferably Spanish, like Tempranillo or Garnacha)
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
• 1/4 cup white sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 large orange, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 large lemon, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 large lime, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium apple, cored and cut into thin wedges
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1-2 cups of soda water (or more, depending on preference)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher or bowl, add peeled and sliced orange, lemon, and lime; gently muddle with a wooden spoon to release juices and flavors.
2. Add apple wedges to the pitcher, sprinkle with white sugar, and stir gently until the sugar dissolves and coats the fruit.
3. Pour brandy and orange liqueur over the fruit mixture, stir well, and let marinate for about 10 minutes.
4. After marinating, add red wine and a cinnamon stick to the pitcher; stir gently to combine.
5. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4 to 8 hours or overnight, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, add soda water to taste, stir gently, fill glasses with ice cubes, and pour sangria along with marinated fruit into each glass.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, authentic Spanish sangria.

5. Apple Cider Mimosa

An Apple Cider Mimosa is my favorite way to bring a little taste of fall into summer brunches. The crisp apple cider paired with bubbly champagne is refreshing, light, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether I’m hosting friends or just treating myself to a slow morning on the patio, this cocktail always feels like a special treat!

Read more about this recipe and get a printable recipe card here.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz. Apple cider
• 3 oz brut champagne

Instructions:

1. Pour champagne into a champagne flute and allow bubbles to settle.
2. Add apple cider to the flute.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

6. Cranberry Mimosa

A Cranberry Mimosa is my go-to when I want something bright, bubbly, and just a little tart. The mix of crisp cranberry juice and sparkling champagne is so refreshing, making it perfect for summer brunches or even a casual afternoon toast. I love how simple yet elegant it is – just a few ingredients, and it always feels like a celebration!

Read more about this recipe here.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz. Cranberry juice
• 3 oz brut champagne
• Slice of lime for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Pour champagne into a champagne flute and let the bubbles settle.
2. Add cranberry juice to the flute.
3. Garnish with a slice of lime
4. Serve chilled and enjoy!

7. Piña Colada

A Piña Colada always feels like an instant tropical escape. The creamy coconut, sweet pineapple, and smooth rum blend together into the ultimate summer indulgence. Whether I’m lounging by the pool or just daydreaming about the beach, this cocktail never fails to put me in vacation mode!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 6 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• Pineapple slice and maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the white rum, coconut cream, heavy cream, pineapple juice, and crushed ice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a chilled glass.
4. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical vibes!

8. Watermelon Mojito

A Watermelon Mojito is my ultimate refresher on hot summer days. The combination of juicy watermelon, fresh mint, and zesty lime is so light and cooling – it’s like summer in a glass! I love how the natural sweetness of the fruit pairs with the crisp rum, making it the perfect drink to sip while soaking up the sunshine.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 oz watermelon juice (freshly blended)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Watermelon wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle fresh mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup.
2. Add the white rum and watermelon juice, then stir to combine.
3. Fill the glass with ice and top with club soda.
4. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a sprig of mint.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste!

9. Classic Daiquiri

A Classic Daiquiri is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. The perfect balance of fresh lime juice, rum, and a touch of sweetness makes this cocktail smooth, refreshing, and timeless. I love how effortlessly elegant it is – just a quick shake, and I’ve got a drink that feels like a little slice of summer luxury.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the classic flavors!

10. Blackberry Basil Smash

A Blackberry Basil Smash is one of my favorite ways to mix things up in the summer. The juicy blackberries add the perfect hint of sweetness, while the fresh basil gives it an herby, refreshing twist. It’s a cocktail that feels both vibrant and sophisticated – just the thing for sipping on the patio as the sun sets!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 5-6 fresh blackberries
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves
• Club soda (optional)
• Blackberry and basil sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the blackberries and basil leaves with lemon juice and simple syrup.
2. Add gin and ice, then shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda if desired.
5. Garnish with a blackberry and a sprig of basil.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing combination!

11. Strawberry Daiquiri

A Strawberry Daiquiri is my go-to when I want something fruity, refreshing, and just a little indulgent. The sweet strawberries blended with rum and a splash of lime make for the perfect frozen treat on a hot day. Whether I’m making a batch for friends or just treating myself, this cocktail always feels like pure summer in a glass!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• Fresh strawberries or lime wheel for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the white rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and frozen strawberries.
2. Blend until smooth and slushy.
3. Pour into a chilled glass.
4. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or lime wheel on the rim.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy this fruity treat!

12. Peach Bellini

A Peach Bellini is my idea of the perfect summer brunch cocktail. The sweet, juicy peaches blended with bubbly Prosecco create a drink that’s light, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant. I love how easy it is to make, yet it always feels like a little celebration with every sip!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches (peeled and pitted)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 4 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine (chilled)
• Peach slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the peaches and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp if desired.
3. In a champagne flute, add about 1 oz of the peach puree.
4. Slowly top with chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with a slice of peach.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the bubbly sweetness!

13. Blueberry Lemonade Vodka Spritzer

A Blueberry Lemonade Vodka Spritzer is one of my favorite ways to cool down on a hot day. The tart lemonade, sweet blueberries, and crisp vodka come together in such a refreshing way, and the bubbles make it feel extra fun. Whether I’m sipping one by the pool or serving a pitcher at a summer get-together, this cocktail is always a hit!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz lemonade (freshly made or store-bought)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• Fresh blueberries for garnish
• Lemon slice for garnish
• Club soda

Instructions:

1. In a glass filled with ice, combine vodka and lemonade.
2. Add simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Top with club soda for a fizzy finish.
5. Garnish with fresh blueberries and a lemon slice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors!

14. Coconut Mojito

A Coconut Mojito is my ultimate tropical refreshment. The creamy coconut pairs perfectly with fresh mint and zesty lime, making every sip feel like a mini getaway. I love how light and refreshing it is – perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening while dreaming of the beach!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz coconut rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup.
2. Add coconut rum and ice.
3. Top with club soda and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical vibes!

15. Raspberry Lime Rickey

A Raspberry Lime Rickey is one of those drinks that feels effortlessly refreshing. The tart lime, sweet raspberries, and bubbly soda water create a perfectly balanced cocktail that’s light, crisp, and so easy to sip. I love how bright and zesty it is – just the thing for cooling off on a hot summer afternoon!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin or vodka
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz raspberry syrup (or muddled fresh raspberries)
• Club soda
• Fresh raspberries and lime wheel for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle fresh raspberries (if using) with lime juice and raspberry syrup.
2. Add gin or vodka and ice, then stir to combine.
3. Top with club soda.
4. Garnish with fresh raspberries and a lime wheel.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing drink!

16. Tropical Rum Punch

Tropical Rum Punch is my go-to when I want a drink that’s fruity, fun, and full of island vibes. The mix of rum, pineapple, orange, and a splash of grenadine creates the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. Whether I’m making a big batch for a summer party or just treating myself to a taste of the tropics, this cocktail always brings the sunshine!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz light rum
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz orange juice
• 1 oz grenadine
• Splash of club soda
• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine light rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and grenadine.
2. Shake well to combine and chill.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with a splash of club soda.
5. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors!

17. Grapefruit Fizz

A Grapefruit Fizz is my kind of cocktail when I’m craving something light, bubbly, and a little citrusy. The tart grapefruit juice pairs perfectly with sparkling water and a splash of gin or vodka, making it crisp and refreshing. It’s the kind of drink that feels effortlessly elegant – perfect for sipping on a warm summer afternoon!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 oz gin
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Club soda
• Grapefruit slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass filled with ice, combine grapefruit juice, gin, and simple syrup.
2. Stir gently to mix.
3. Top with club soda for a fizzy finish.
4. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste!

18. Classic Caipirinha

A Classic Caipirinha is my go-to when I want something simple yet bold. The fresh lime, sugar, and cachaça come together to create a cocktail that’s both tart and slightly sweet with just the right amount of kick. It’s the perfect drink for summer nights when I want to shake things up with a little Brazilian flair!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz cachaça
• 1 lime (cut into wedges)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle the lime wedges with sugar to release the juice.
2. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
3. Pour in the cachaça and stir well to combine.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing Brazilian flavors!

19. Kiwi Mojito

A Kiwi Mojito is a fun, tropical twist on the classic that I absolutely love. The sweet, tangy kiwi blends beautifully with fresh mint and zesty lime, making every sip light and refreshing. It’s the perfect cocktail for those extra-hot summer days when I need something crisp, cooling, and a little bit unique!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1 ripe kiwi (peeled and sliced)
• Fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Kiwi slice and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle the kiwi slices and mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup.
2. Add white rum and ice, then stir to combine.
3. Top with club soda and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a kiwi slice and a sprig of mint.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the fruity freshness!

20. Melon Ball Cocktail

A Melon Ball Cocktail is my kind of nostalgic summer sipper. The sweet melon liqueur, smooth vodka, and refreshing orange juice create a vibrant, fruity drink that’s both fun and delicious. Every time I make one, it reminds me of carefree summer days and poolside lounging – exactly the kind of vibe I want in a cocktail!

Ingredients:

• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz melon liqueur (such as Midori)
• 2 oz orange juice
• Fresh melon balls for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, melon liqueur, and orange juice.
2. Shake well to chill the mixture.
3. Strain into a chilled glass.
4. Garnish with fresh melon balls.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy this fruity delight!

21. Spiked Arnold Palmer

A Spiked Arnold Palmer is my go-to when I want something refreshing with just the right kick. The perfect blend of sweet tea, tart lemonade, and a splash of bourbon or vodka makes this cocktail smooth, crisp, and easy to sip. Whether I’m relaxing on the porch or hosting a summer cookout, this drink always hits the spot!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka or bourbon
• 4 oz iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened, as preferred)
• 4 oz lemonade
• Lemon slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass filled with ice, combine the vodka or bourbon, iced tea, and lemonade.
2. Stir gently to mix.
3. Garnish with a lemon slice.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing drink!

22. Cherry Limeade Cocktail

A Cherry Limeade Cocktail is the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and refreshing. The bold cherry flavor combined with zesty lime and a splash of vodka makes for a drink that’s as fun as it is delicious. I love serving this one over ice on a hot summer day – it’s like a grown-up version of a childhood favorite!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz cherry syrup (or muddled fresh cherries)
• Club soda
• Fresh cherries and lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle fresh cherries (if using) with lime juice and cherry syrup.
2. Add vodka and ice, then shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda.
5. Garnish with fresh cherries and a lime wedge.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet-tart flavors!

23. Grapefruit Basil Spritz

A Grapefruit Basil Spritz is one of my favorite ways to keep things light and refreshing in the summer. The tart grapefruit pairs beautifully with the fresh, aromatic basil, while the bubbles give it that crisp, effervescent finish. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels both elegant and effortless – perfect for sipping on a warm evening!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 oz gin
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Fresh basil leaves
• Club soda
• Grapefruit slice and basil sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle fresh basil leaves with grapefruit juice and simple syrup.
2. Add gin and ice, then stir to combine.
3. Top with club soda for a fizzy finish.
4. Garnish with a grapefruit slice and a sprig of basil.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors!

24. Tropical Tequila Sunrise

A Tropical Tequila Sunrise is my kind of vacation in a glass. The blend of smooth tequila, sweet tropical juices, and a splash of grenadine creates a gorgeous, sunset-inspired drink that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether I’m starting a slow summer morning or toasting to a golden-hour evening, this cocktail always brings the tropical vibes!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 4 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz grenadine
• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass filled with ice, pour the tequila and pineapple juice.
2. Slowly add grenadine, allowing it to settle at the bottom for a gradient effect.
3. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical vibes!

25. Lavender Lemonade Cocktail

A Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is my go-to when I want something floral, refreshing, and a little elegant. The delicate lavender adds a subtle, aromatic twist to classic lemonade, making it feel extra special. Whether I’m sipping it on a quiet afternoon or serving it at a summer gathering, this cocktail always feels like a little sip of sunshine!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz lemonade
• 1/2 oz lavender syrup
• Fresh lavender sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass filled with ice, combine vodka, lemonade, and lavender syrup.
2. Stir gently to mix.
3. Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the aromatic flavors!

26. Honeydew Cooler

A Honeydew Cooler is the ultimate light and refreshing summer sip. The sweet, juicy honeydew blends perfectly with a splash of vodka and a hint of lime, making it crisp and cooling. I love how hydrating and subtly sweet this cocktail is – it’s the perfect way to beat the heat on a sunny day!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 2 oz honeydew melon puree (blend honeydew until smooth)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Club soda
• Honeydew balls for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine gin, honeydew puree, and lime juice.
2. Shake well to combine and chill.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda for a fizzy finish.
5. Garnish with honeydew balls.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste!

27. Blackberry Gin Fizz

A Blackberry Gin Fizz is one of my favorite ways to enjoy fresh summer berries in a cocktail. The juicy blackberries, crisp gin, and fizzy soda water create a drink that’s light, refreshing, and just the right amount of tart. It’s the perfect balance of fruity and bubbly – ideal for a warm evening on the patio!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Fresh blackberries
• Club soda
• Lemon wheel for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle fresh blackberries with lemon juice and simple syrup.
2. Add gin and ice, then shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a few blackberries.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing fizz!

With so many classic summer cocktails to choose from, there’s a refreshing sip for every occasion – whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard gathering, or simply unwinding after a long day. From fruity blends to crisp, citrusy favorites, each drink brings a little extra sunshine to the season.