Sex on the Beach

Every now and then, a cocktail comes along that instantly brings a sense of fun with it. Sex on the Beach is one of those drinks. It has been around for decades, yet it still shows up on menus, at parties, and in beach bars for a reason. The first time I had one was at a casual summer gathering, and it quickly became clear why this cocktail has stuck around. It is approachable, fruity, and easy to enjoy from the first sip.

The combination of vodka, peach schnapps, citrus, and cranberry juice creates a flavor that feels light without being boring. I love this because it never feels intimidating. You do not need to be a cocktail expert to enjoy it, and it does not ask you to slow down and analyze flavors. It just works. This drink fits a wide range of moments. It is just as comfortable at a backyard party as it is at a beach-themed event or a casual night with friends.

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Why You Will Love This

Sex on the Beach has stayed popular because it delivers exactly what people want from a fruity cocktail. It is smooth, bright, and easy to drink without sacrificing flavor.

• Balanced fruit flavors that are not too sweet
• Simple ingredients that are easy to find
• Quick to prepare with no complicated steps
• Appealing color and presentation
• Works well for single drinks or batching

Once you make it, it becomes one of those reliable cocktails you can always fall back on when you want something fun and familiar.

Ingredients

The ingredients in this cocktail are classic for a reason. Each one plays a role in building a drink that feels refreshing and well-rounded.

• 1 ½ oz vodka
• ½ oz Chambord or Creme de Cassis
• ½ oz Peach Schnapps
• 1 ½ oz orange juice
• 1 ½ oz cranberry juice
• orange slice, for garnish, optional
• cocktail umbrella garnish, optional

Vodka provides a clean base that lets the fruit flavors shine. Peach schnapps adds sweetness and aroma that defines the drink. Chambord or Creme de Cassis brings a berry note that deepens the flavor and gives the cocktail its signature color. Orange juice keeps things bright, while cranberry juice adds a light tart finish that keeps the drink refreshing instead of heavy.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

You do not need top-shelf spirits to make this cocktail work, but choosing decent-quality options helps keep the flavors clean.

• Tito’s Vodka for a smooth and neutral base
• Absolut Vodka if you want a slightly sharper profile
• DeKuyper Peach Schnapps for classic sweetness
• Chambord for a rich raspberry flavor
• Creme de Cassis as a slightly drier berry option

If you prefer a lighter drink, you can reduce the peach schnapps slightly and add more juice. For a more pronounced berry note, increase the Chambord just a touch.

Equipment and Glassware

This cocktail does not require much equipment, which makes it easy to prepare at home or for a group.

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Hurricane Glass

A highball glass works well for a casual presentation, while a hurricane glass gives it a more playful look. Either option keeps the drink easy to serve and enjoy.

How to Make It

This cocktail comes together quickly and is perfect when you want something fast without sacrificing flavor.

1. Get all the ingredients you’ll need ready
2. Pour the ingredients into an ice-filled cocktail shaker
3. Shake it up
4. Pack a highball or hurricane glass with ice and strain the mixture into it
5. Add the cocktail umbrella and orange slice as a garnish

Once strained, serve immediately while the drink is cold and fresh.

Pro Tips

These small tips help make sure your Sex on the Beach turns out balanced and refreshing every time.

• Use plenty of ice when shaking
• Chill your glass ahead of time if possible
• Shake well to fully blend the juices and spirits
• Taste before serving and adjust juice ratios if needed
• Use fresh orange juice for brighter flavor
• Garnish just before serving for best appearance
• Keep cranberry juice unsweetened for balance

Once you feel comfortable, adjusting ratios slightly can help you fine-tune the drink to your taste.

Variations

This cocktail is easy to customize, which is part of why it has stayed popular for so long.

• Make it alcohol free using orange juice, cranberry juice, and peach syrup
• Add pineapple juice for a tropical twist
• Use flavored vodka like citrus or peach
• Serve it frozen by blending with ice
• Add soda water for a lighter version

Each variation keeps the core flavor profile while offering a slightly different experience.

When to Serve and Pairings

Sex on the Beach works best in relaxed settings where fun is the priority. It is not a formal cocktail, and that is part of its charm.

Serve it at summer parties, poolside gatherings, beach-themed events, or casual nights with friends. It also works well as a welcome drink since it is easy to sip.

• Grilled chicken or shrimp
• Light appetizers and finger foods
• Chips with salsa or fruit dips
• Other fruit-forward cocktails

Keeping food pairings casual matches the laid-back feel of the drink.

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail is best served fresh, but it can be batched if needed. Mix the spirits and juices ahead of time and store covered in the refrigerator.

Shake or stir with ice before serving to chill. Add garnishes right before serving to keep them looking fresh.

FAQs

Is Sex on the Beach a strong cocktail?
It has a moderate alcohol level and is easy to drink.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Mix the liquids ahead and chill, then shake with ice before serving.

Do I need Chambord specifically?
No. Creme de Cassis works well and offers a slightly different berry flavor.

Can I skip the garnish?
Yes. Garnishes are optional and mainly for presentation.

What juice works best?
Fresh orange juice and unsweetened cranberry juice give the best balance.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy this classic, here are a few other cocktails worth trying next.

• Fuzzy Navel
• Bay Breeze
• Tequila Sunrise
• Woo Woo
• Sex in the Driveway