Summer Cocktails: Cool & Refreshing

When the heat of summer sets in, nothing hits the spot like a cool and refreshing cocktail. With so many choices out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why this article narrows your options to a list of summer cocktails that offer fresh twists on some timeless classics. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply relaxing on the patio, these drinks are designed to keep you cool while adding a splash of creativity to your glass.

Mojito

The combination of herbaceous mint, tart lime, and fizzy soda water is so refreshing. I love how pretty it is too. Garnished with mint leaves and a lime wedge, this mojito looks like a fancy drink you’d get at a restaurant or bar. But in fact, it’s easy to make at home. Recipe: Mojito

Mai Tai

Perhaps the most well-known Tiki cocktail, the Mai Tai is a true celebration of rum. The pale yellow cocktail topped with a classic rum float elegantly marries citrus flavors with just the right amount of sweetness. Made with the juice of a whole lime and orange curaçao, the Mai Tai highlights a complex bouquet of citrus. Freshly squeezed lime — yes, it is imperative that you use the real stuff for this drink — brings bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the rum, orgeat, and sugar. Recipe: Mai Tai

Sex on the Beach

Combine vodka with peach schnapps and cranberry juice to make a classic sex on the beach cocktail. Garnish with cocktail cherries and orange slices. Recipe: Sex on the Beach

Aperol Spritz

Bubbly, citrusy, herbal, subtly bitter and lightly sweet: the Aperol spritz is an iconic summer cocktail! This drink blew up in popularity in the 2000’s, but it’s an Italian classic cocktail that’s been capturing hearts and minds since the 1950’s. It’s one of the most refreshing mixed drinks of all time. Recipe: Aperol Spritz

Pina Colada

This Pina Colada is sweet, but balanced, with crisp rum and tart fruit complementing the rich coconut. Whether you’re on vacation or just making drinks at home, don’t neglect the Piña Colada. Put one of these in everyone’s hand, and good times are imminent. Recipe: Pina Colada

Sweet Tea Smash

Sweet tea is a summertime treat enjoyed during backyard hangouts, quiet conversations and anytime one requires a delicious respite from the heat. The Sweet Tea Smash was created at Please Don’t Tell (aka PDT) in New York City, the famed speakeasy-style bar with a phone booth entrance. Recipe: Sweet Tea Smash

Lemon Drop

A lemon drop cocktail is simple to make at home.  Use lemon vodka, triple sec orange liqueur, lemon juice (fresh squeezed), and lemonade for built in sweetness!  Give it a shake with crushed ice, strain into a sugar rimmed martini glass, and enjoy. Recipe: Lemon Drop

Watermelon Margaritas

A super seasonal cocktail that’s positively bursting with yellow watermelon, this tasty take on the margarita is fruitier and has a more vibrant color than the classic. Recipe: Watermelon Margaritas

Blackberry Wine Slushy

When it’s too hot for a glass of red wine, this blender drink will cool you down. Vodka, blackberries, orange juice and wine are sweetened with agave then, after a whir, garnished with yet more blackberries. Recipe: Blackberry Wine Slushy

Vida Paloma

This twist on a traditional Paloma from Fat Baby Tacos in Chicago uses mezcal instead of tequila to give the fruity cocktail a smoked touch. Fresh grapefruit juice, simple syrup and club soda replace the traditional grapefruit soda, and the chile-piquín-rimmed glass adds a layer of spice. Recipe: Vida Paloma

Final Thoughts

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with cocktails that are as cool and refreshing as the season itself. By starting with a few creative twists on classic recipes, you can keep things simple while still impressing your guests—or just treating yourself. If you have a favorite summer cocktail or a go-to variation that always hits the spot, I’d love to hear about it. Share your recipes or suggestions in the comments below and let’s keep the inspiration flowing all season long.