There's nothing quite like kicking back with a delicious cocktail in hand on a hot summer day. But with so many options, it can be hard to decide what to drink.
When choosing the best summer cocktails, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Summer days are perfect for all-day pool parties and long weekends of boozy fun. So you likely find yourself drinking during the day and into the night.
To avoid going overboard and falling asleep by the pool or having a heat stroke, it's best to choose refreshing cocktails with lower alcohol content. Summer cocktails with juice, seltzer, coconut water, and stimulating herbs like mint or lemongrass will do the trick.
Summer is also the time to finally enjoy all those frozen mixed drink favorites. Don't make them too fruity and sweet; it's easy to down sweet drinks without keeping track.
Don't forget the less sugary options and go for something savory or zesty.
The best summer cocktails can give you that nice buzz and keep you hydrated at the same time.
With that said, here are a few of the best summer cocktails to enjoy on a hot summer day.
A classic Mojito cocktail recipe is so easy to make at home, and it's probably one of the best cocktail recipes for summer.
The delicious, refreshing combination of fresh mint, lime, sugar, and Bacardi White Rum never gets old.
If you want to give this classic summer cocktail a bit of a fun flavorful twist, try these:
When you’re craving a cocktail that can cool you off in the summer heat, this Frozen Watermelon Daiquiri is the answer; taking almost no time to prepare this summer cocktail will keep you buzzed and hydrated.
A timeless tequila cocktail to enjoy on a summer day! Just a few simple ingredients and a cocktail shaker, and you are ready to impress with your mixology skills!
Go easy on tequila if you are planning a whole day of drinking in the sun, and check out some fruity Margarita cocktail options too:
Or check out all 22 Margarita Cocktail Recipes collection for even more ideas!
The Frosé Daiquiri is dangerously delicious, and you’ll want to drink more than one! Perfect for making in big batches for those summer parties.
Here are some more great frozen cocktail options (aka boozy slushies):
Aperol Spritz might be one of your go-to summer drinks, but try this fruity spritz version this summer; you won't regret it!
Sangria just screams summer party and fun! You can easily go for a
Classic Sangria, but we highly recommend you make your sangria sexy this summer!
Check out some more summer Sangria recipes too:
This boozy, bittersweet mixed drink with smoky grilled oranges is a pitcher-perfect cocktail with some serious summer flair.
Maitai cocktail with a Polynesian twist, made with rum, Curaçao, and lime juice.
Mint, sugar, bourbon, ice.
Fun fact: this simple, delicious concoction is the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby! Perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
The best Bloody Mary recipe for your next party!
The classic savory cocktail with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, vodka, and fresh herbs is the unsung hero of brunches everywhere. Top with a few olives and a splash of hot sauce to make it extra delicious.
And if you are looking to really wow your guests, make these Bloody Mary Popsicles with Homemade Tomato Juice (we used celery for popsicle sticks)!
This Tequila Sunrise recipe is easy to make and an absolute beauty to look at! This colorful tequila cocktail gets its signature hues from orange juice and grenadine. This beautiful, intoxicating tequila-based mix will transport you to a sunny beach from the first sip!