There’s something about sipping a Blue Hawaii that instantly transports you to a breezy beach with palm trees swaying in the background. This tropical cocktail is bright, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet-with that signature ocean-blue color that always makes a splash at summer get-togethers. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to bring on the smiles. Here’s everything you need to shake one up at home.
Blue Hawaiian
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 1 oz (30 ml) white rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) blue Curaçao
– 3 oz (90 ml) pineapple juice (fresh if possible)
– 1 oz (30 ml) sweet and sour mix
– Ice
– Pineapple wedge or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Glassware: A hurricane glass is ideal to show off that vibrant color, but a highball glass works too.
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the rum, vodka, blue Curaçao, pineapple juice, and sweet and sour mix.
- Shake well-about 15 seconds-until the shaker feels cold to the touch.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice or a cherry (or both if you’re feeling fancy).
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh pineapple juice if you can-it really lifts the flavor and adds brightness.
– Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink colder longer.
– Want that gorgeous layered look? Pour the blue Curaçao last and gently stir once or twice to create a gradient.
Make-Ahead Note
You can mix the rum, vodka, blue Curaçao, and pineapple juice in advance and store in the fridge (up to 24 hours). Add the sweet and sour mix and ice just before serving for the freshest taste.
Ingredient Swaps
– No vodka? Just use 2 oz (60 ml) of rum instead.
– Don’t have sweet and sour mix? Combine equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup.
– Want it less sweet? Cut back the sweet and sour mix to ½ oz (15 ml), or add a splash of soda water.
Flavor & Texture
The Blue Hawaii is sweet and tangy with a tropical punch. The pineapple juice adds body, while the blue Curaçao brings in that orange-citrus note with a pop of color. When shaken well, the drink feels light and refreshing-perfect for warm days and laid-back evenings.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio-it’s just the right mix of fun and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Blue Hawaii with:
– Grilled chicken skewers: The smoky char goes great with the cocktail’s fruity notes.
– Shrimp ceviche or salad: The citrus in the drink plays nicely with seafood.
– Fresh tropical fruit: Think mango, papaya, and kiwi on a platter for easy, colorful snacking.
Storage
This cocktail is best served fresh, but if you’re prepping for a party, mix the ingredients (minus ice) in a large pitcher and refrigerate. Just stir and pour over ice when ready to serve.
Variations to Try
Green Hawaii
– Replace blue Curaçao with melon liqueur.
– Result: A fun green twist with a hint of honeydew flavor.
Spicy Hawaii
– Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker.
– Muddle before adding liquids for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
Berry Hawaii
– Toss in a few fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries).
– Muddle them first for a tangy, colorful version.
Pink Hawaii
– Swap the blue Curaçao for a splash of grenadine.
– It gives the drink a rosy hue and a slightly different fruit note.
Virgin Blue Hawaii
– Mix 3 oz (90 ml) pineapple juice, 1 oz (30 ml) lemon-lime soda, and a tiny drop of blue food coloring.
– Stir and serve over ice for a fun alcohol-free version.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use coconut rum?
Absolutely! It adds a creamy tropical twist that works beautifully here.
Too sweet?
Try reducing the sweet and sour mix or adding a little extra vodka to balance things out.
Frozen version?
Yes! Blend all the ingredients with a cup of ice for a slushy-style cocktail-great for hot afternoons.
Serving a crowd?
Multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a pitcher. Keep chilled and pour over ice to serve.
Blue Hawaii vs. Blue Lagoon?
They’re similar in color, but the Blue Lagoon uses lemonade and skips the pineapple juice, so it leans more citrusy.
Final Touch
Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or serving a crowd, the Blue Hawaii is all about carefree vibes and tropical flavor. It’s simple to make, easy to tweak, and always a crowd-pleaser. Add a little island flair to your next happy hour-you’ll be glad you did.
