Bright, beachy cocktails always seem to steal the show, and this Mermaid Water cocktail is no exception. With its ocean inspired green hue and tropical rum base, it looks like something straight off a resort menu. If you are searching for a green drink that tastes as good as it looks, this one deserves a spot in your rotation.
The first time I made Mermaid Water, it instantly became a summer favorite. I love this because it feels fun and playful, yet the flavors are simple and balanced. The mix of spiced rum, coconut rum, pineapple juice, and lime creates a smooth tropical base, and the splash of blue curaçao transforms it into that signature sea green color. Whether you are planning a pool party, a beach themed gathering, or just want colorful cocktails for a weekend get together, this recipe delivers both flavor and visual appeal.
Why You Will Love This
Mermaid Water is one of those cocktails that feels festive the moment you pour it. The green color alone makes it a conversation starter.
- Beautiful ocean inspired green color
- Tropical rum flavors with a bright citrus finish
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for themed parties and summer events
- Customizable sweetness and strength
- Great for both beginners and experienced home bartenders
It looks impressive in the glass, yet it comes together in just minutes. That is always a win.
Ingredients
The beauty of this drink lies in how these ingredients work together to create a layered tropical flavor.
- 2 oz Spiced Rum
- 1 oz Coconut Rum
- 6 oz Pineapple Juice
- 0.5 oz Lime Juice
- Splash Blue Curaçao
Spiced rum adds warmth and subtle vanilla notes. Coconut rum brings a creamy tropical sweetness that pairs perfectly with pineapple juice. Fresh lime juice keeps the drink from becoming overly sweet and adds a bright finish. The splash of blue curaçao provides that ocean inspired color and a gentle citrus touch.
If possible, use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor. It makes a noticeable difference.
Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions
Quality rum makes this cocktail shine. Since rum is the base, choose something smooth and flavorful.
- Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum for warm spice notes
- Bacardi Spiced Rum for a lighter spice profile
- Malibu Coconut Rum for classic coconut flavor
- Blue Curaçao by Bols for vibrant color
- Swap pineapple juice with fresh blended pineapple for a richer taste
If you prefer a slightly stronger citrus note, you can add a tiny extra squeeze of lime.
Equipment and Glassware
You do not need any advanced tools to make Mermaid Water at home.
A clear glass works best because it shows off the green color. A highball glass gives it a lighter, beachy presentation, while a rocks glass makes it feel bold and punchy.
How to Make It
The process is simple and straightforward. The key is shaking long enough to fully chill the mixture.
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine the spiced rum, coconut rum, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Fill a glass with ice to prepare for serving.
- Strain the mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass over the ice.
- Top the drink with a splash of blue curaçao to give it a beautiful ocean like color.
- You can garnish with a slice of lime or a pineapple wedge to enhance the tropical feel.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Mermaid Water cocktail.
For a layered look, pour the blue curaçao slowly over the top before gently stirring.
Pro Tips
Small details can take this cocktail to the next level.
- Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled
- Chill your glass before serving for extra refreshment
- Shake for at least 15 seconds to fully blend flavors
- Add the blue curaçao slowly for better color control
- Use crushed ice for a more beach style presentation
- Taste before serving and adjust lime if needed
- Garnish generously for visual impact
Do not overdo the blue curaçao. A splash is enough for color and balance without overpowering the rum flavors.
Once you get comfortable with the recipe, feel free to tweak it to suit your taste.
Variations
This green drink is easy to customize.
- Add a splash of soda water for a lighter texture
- Use dark rum instead of spiced rum for deeper flavor
- Blend with ice for a frozen version
- Add a splash of coconut cream for a richer feel
- Make it alcohol free by replacing rum with coconut water and pineapple juice
Each version keeps that tropical spirit while offering a slightly different experience.
When to Serve and Pairings
Mermaid Water is perfect for summer events, beach themed parties, birthday gatherings, or any occasion where colorful cocktails make sense.
It pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled shrimp skewers
- Fish tacos
- Pineapple salsa
- Coconut chicken
- Fresh fruit platters
The tropical flavors complement seafood especially well, and the citrus helps cut through richer foods.
Storage and Serving Notes
This cocktail is best served fresh, but you can pre mix the rums and juices ahead of time. Store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to one day.
When ready to serve, shake with ice and add the splash of blue curaçao just before pouring. Garnish right before serving to keep everything looking fresh.
FAQs
Why is it green instead of blue?
The yellow pineapple juice combines with blue curaçao to create the green color.
Can I make this less sweet?
Yes. Add extra lime juice or reduce the pineapple juice slightly.
What glass works best?
A clear highball or rocks glass shows off the color nicely.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes. Multiply the rum and juice ingredients, chill the mixture, and add blue curaçao individually when serving.
Is this a strong drink?
It is moderately strong because it contains two types of rum, but the juices balance it well.
More Cocktails to Try
If you love tropical and colorful cocktails, you might enjoy:

Ingredients
- 2 oz Spiced Rum
- 1 oz Coconut Rum
- 6 oz Pineapple Juice
- 0.5 oz Lime Juice
- Splash Blue Curaçao
Instructions
- Mix the Rums and Juices: In a shaker filled with ice, combine the spiced rum, coconut rum, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Prepare the Glass: Fill a glass with ice to prepare for serving.
- Pour: Strain the mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass over the ice.
- Add a Splash of Color: Top the drink with a splash of blue curaçao to give it a beautiful, ocean-like color.
- Garnish (optional): You can garnish with a slice of lime or a pineapple wedge to enhance the tropical feel.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Mermaid Water cocktail!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled
- Chill your glass before serving for extra refreshment
- Shake for at least 15 seconds to fully blend flavors



