There’s nothing like a perfectly mixed cocktail to set the tone for summer—whether you’re lounging by the pool, throwing a garden party, or just enjoying a quiet sunset on the balcony. The best summer cocktails are refreshing, light, and full of seasonal flavours like citrus, berries, herbs, and tropical fruits.
Here are 10 summer cocktail favourites that will keep your spirits high and your glass chilled all season long.
1. Aperol Spritz
Taste: Light, bitter-sweet, and bubbly
How to make:
- 3 parts Prosecco
- 2 parts Aperol
- 1 part soda water
Pour over ice in a large wine glass, garnish with an orange slice. Effortlessly chic and perfect for golden hour sipping.
2. Mojito
Taste: Minty, citrusy, and incredibly refreshing
How to make:
- Fresh mint leaves
- 2 tsp sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- White rum
- Soda water
Muddle mint, lime juice, and sugar, then top with rum and soda water. Serve over ice for the ultimate cool-down cocktail.
3. Strawberry Daiquiri (Frozen or Classic)
Taste: Sweet, fruity, and tangy
How to make (frozen):
- Fresh or frozen strawberries
- White rum
- Lime juice
- Simple syrup
Blend with ice until smooth. It’s like summer in slushie form.
4. Paloma
Taste: Crisp, citrusy, and lightly bitter
How to make:
- Tequila
- Fresh grapefruit juice
- Lime juice
- Soda water or grapefruit soda
Serve over ice in a salt-rimmed glass. It’s the grapefruit-lover’s answer to a margarita.
5. Pimm’s Cup
Taste: Herbaceous, fruity, and lightly spiced
How to make:
- Pimm’s No. 1
- Lemonade (or ginger ale)
- Cucumber, mint, strawberries, orange slices
Pour over ice and load it with fresh fruit and herbs. A British summer staple.
6. Frozen Margarita
Taste: Tart, salty, and festive
How to make:
- Tequila
- Triple sec
- Lime juice
- Ice
Blend until frosty. Rim the glass with salt for that iconic zing.
7. Rosé Sangria
Taste: Light, fruity, and slightly floral
How to make:
- Chilled rosé
- Mixed berries
- Sliced peaches or citrus
- Dash of brandy or orange liqueur
Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. It’s summer picnic perfection.
8. Gin & Tonic with a Twist
Taste: Botanical and crisp
How to make:
- Gin
- Quality tonic water
- Garnishes: cucumber, grapefruit, basil, or rosemary
Swap lemon for something seasonal to elevate this classic with a refreshing twist.
9. Mai Tai
Taste: Tropical, strong, and slightly nutty
How to make:
- Light and dark rum
- Orange curaçao
- Lime juice
- Orgeat syrup
Shake with ice and serve over crushed ice with a mint sprig and lime wedge. A tiki bar in a glass.
10. Watermelon Basil Cooler
Taste: Sweet, herbal, and ultra-refreshing
How to make:
- Fresh watermelon juice
- Vodka or gin
- Lime juice
- Basil leaves
Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a basil sprig.
🧊 Pro Tips for Summer Sipping:
- Use fresh ingredients: Summer fruits, citrus, and herbs make all the difference.
- Keep it cold: Pre-chill your glassware and use crushed or large ice cubes to keep drinks cooler longer.
- Make it a mocktail: Most of these cocktails can be made alcohol-free and still taste amazing.
Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or simply toasting the weekend, these cocktails bring bright, seasonal flavour to any occasion. Shake, stir, sip—and let summer begin.