Surfin’ USA

Celebrate the Fourth of July with the Surfin’ USA, a tropical, fruit-forward cocktail that’s as festive as it is refreshing. Coconut, pineapple, watermelon, and citrus blend into a smooth, colorful drink that captures the easygoing spirit of summer and backyard fireworks.

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Tasting Notes

Surfin’ USA delivers a smooth, fruity profile that’s refreshing from the first sip. The pineapple and watermelon juices give it a sweet-tart mix, while the coconut milk adds a soft, tropical finish. The blue curaçao brings in a citrus edge and eye-catching color. Lime juice brightens the blend, adding balance without overpowering the other elements. The texture is creamy yet light, with just enough acidity to keep it crisp. With every sip, you get a bit of fruit, a touch of coconut, and a mellow warmth from the rum that makes it ideal for warm-weather sipping.

Equipment and Glassware

To make Surfin’ USA, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for proper mixing and chilling. A jigger helps you measure each ingredient accurately. Use a paring knife and small star-shaped cutter if you plan to prep fruit garnishes like watermelon or pineapple stars. A small dish will help with rimming your glass in shredded coconut. For serving, a large rocks or stemless hurricane glass works well—it should be wide enough to hold ice and showcase the layered garnish. Don’t forget a cocktail strainer to keep ice shards out of the final pour, and tongs or a pick for placing fruit stars.

Ingredients

• 1 oz coconut rum
• 0.75 oz blue curaçao
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz watermelon juice
• 1 oz coconut milk
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• Agave syrup and shredded coconut, for rimming
• Pineapple and watermelon stars, for garnish

Instructions

• Rim the edge of your glass with agave syrup, then dip into shredded coconut to coat.
• Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
• In a shaker, combine coconut rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, watermelon juice, coconut milk, and lime juice.
• Add ice and shake well until chilled.
• Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
• Garnish with pineapple and watermelon cut into star shapes.

Pro Tips

• Use cold fruit juices to keep the drink well-chilled without over-diluting during shaking.
• For a cleaner rim, freeze the glass after applying agave and coconut.
• Blend the cocktail for a frozen version, just skip the shaker and use crushed ice.
• Use fresh watermelon juice when possible; strain it to remove pulp for a smoother texture.
• Make the fruit star garnishes ahead of time and store them chilled.
• Try canned coconut milk for creaminess, not coconut cream, it’s too thick.
• Serve immediately for best presentation and texture.

When to Serve

Surfin’ USA is an excellent choice for Fourth of July gatherings, beach parties, and backyard cookouts. The colors and garnishes make it fitting for patriotic events, but its fruity base and chilled serve make it a natural for any warm-weather occasion. It works well as a welcome drink or signature cocktail at summer events, especially ones where presentation matters. Since it’s not overly strong, it’s also a good afternoon cocktail that guests can enjoy without feeling weighed down. Serve it when you want something colorful, refreshing, and easy to sip in the sun.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Coconut Rum: Malibu, Parrot Bay, Koloa Kaua‘i
• Blue Curaçao: DeKuyper, Giffard, Bols
• Pineapple Juice: Lakewood Organic, Dole, Ceres
• Watermelon Juice: WTRMLN WTR, Natalie’s, Fresh pressed
• Coconut Milk: Thai Kitchen, Aroy-D, Trader Joe’s
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed preferred; or Nellie & Joe’s Famous Key West Lime Juice

Similar Cocktails

• Frozen Blue Moscato Margarita
• Strawberry Coconut Daiquiri
• Mermaid Margarita
• Seaweed Cocktail
• Blue Hawaiian Long Island