There’s something about a Sex on the Beach cocktail that just feels like summer in a glass. It’s fruity, colorful, and refreshing—kind of like the drink version of a beach vacation. I’ve made this cocktail countless times for backyard get-togethers and lazy afternoons, and it never fails to bring a smile. It’s easy to make, easy to enjoy, and easy to tweak to your taste.
Sex on the Beach
What You’ll Need
Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
Glass: Highball or old-fashioned glass
Make-ahead: You can pre-mix everything (except the ice) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Ingredients
– Vodka – 1.5 oz (45 ml)
– Peach schnapps – 0.5 oz (15 ml)
– Orange juice – 2 oz (60 ml), preferably fresh
– Cranberry juice – 2 oz (60 ml), unsweetened if you like it less sweet
– Ice – enough to fill your glass
– Orange slice or maraschino cherry – for garnish
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid works too)
– Strainer (optional)
– Jigger or shot glass for measuring
Method
- Fill your shaker about halfway with ice.
- Pour in 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka and 0.5 oz (15 ml) peach schnapps.
- Add 2 oz (60 ml) orange juice and 2 oz (60 ml) cranberry juice.
- Shake it up well—about 10–15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your glass with ice and strain the drink over it. If you’re skipping the shaker, just build it right in the glass and stir gently.
- Garnish with a slice of orange, a cherry, or even a little umbrella for fun.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh juice when you can—it really makes the flavor pop.
– Chill your glass ahead of time for extra refreshment.
– If it tastes too sweet, use unsweetened cranberry juice or add a splash of soda water.
– Want to tone down the alcohol? Add a bit more juice or use less vodka.
Storage
If you’re making a batch ahead of time, mix the vodka, peach schnapps, and juices in a pitcher (skip the ice). Store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Stir before serving and pour over fresh ice.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, summery foods. Here are a few of my favorites:
Grilled Chicken Skewers
The smoky, savory flavor of grilled chicken balances the cocktail’s fruity sweetness. Try brushing the skewers with a citrusy glaze to echo the drink’s flavors.
Fresh Summer Salad
Think greens, strawberries, goat cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for warm-weather sipping.
Spicy Bites
Jalapeño poppers, spicy shrimp, or buffalo wings are great choices. The sweetness of the drink helps cool down the heat.
Variations
Here’s where you can have some fun. I thought I’d share a few of my favorite spins on this classic cocktail:
Tropical Sunset
– Swap vodka for coconut rum
– Use pineapple juice instead of orange juice
– Garnish with a pineapple wedge
Tastes like a beach vacation, no passport needed.
Berry Bliss
– Add a splash of raspberry liqueur
– Replace cranberry juice with lemon-lime soda
– Serve over lots of ice for a fizzy, fruity twist
Winter Sun
– Add a splash of pomegranate juice
– Sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top for a festive touch
Virgin Sex on the Beach (Mocktail)
– Use peach nectar instead of schnapps
– Mix with orange juice and cranberry juice
– Serve over ice and garnish just like the original
Substitutions
– Vodka: Try white rum or coconut rum for a different base
– Peach schnapps: Apricot brandy or peach nectar works well
– Orange juice: Mango or pineapple juice adds a tropical vibe
– Cranberry juice: Pomegranate juice is a tasty swap
Fun Facts
– The name likely came from a bartender in Florida trying to sell more peach schnapps—funny how these things catch on!
– You’ll see different colors depending on how it’s poured—some versions look more orange, others more pink.
– There are even popsicles and jello shots inspired by this cocktail!
FAQs
Can I make this in a pitcher for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Stir it all together in a pitcher and keep it chilled until ready to serve. Just give it a quick stir before pouring.
What if I don’t have a shaker?
No worries—just build the drink directly in the glass over ice and stir. It’ll still taste great.
What’s the best garnish?
A classic orange slice works perfectly, but a cherry or pineapple wedge adds a little flair. For fun, throw in a cocktail umbrella.
Can I use bottled juices?
Yes, but if you can, go for fresh. It makes a big difference in flavor. If you’re using bottled, choose high-quality, 100% juice with no added sugar.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use unsweetened cranberry juice and reduce the peach schnapps a bit. You can also add a splash of soda water to lighten it up.
Is this a good drink for someone who doesn’t like strong alcohol?
Totally. The fruit juices do a great job of mellowing out the alcohol, so it tastes more like a fruity punch than a stiff drink.
Whether you’re lounging poolside or just looking to bring a little sunshine into your evening, a Sex on the Beach is always a good idea. It’s fun, fruity, and easy to make your own. So grab your shaker, some ice, and get mixing—you’re just a few sips away from your next favorite cocktail. Cheers!
