17 Refreshing Summer Drinks to Beat the Heat

When the sun is shining and the heat is rising, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing summer drink to keep you cool. From fruity cocktails to icy smoothies, there’s a wide array of tasty beverages that are easy to whip up and perfect for enjoying outdoors. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, these drinks are sure to hit the spot and elevate your summer vibes.

Watermelon Mojito

Watermelon Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito, perfect for hot summer days. It combines the sweet, juicy flavor of watermelon with the crispness of mint and the zing of lime, creating a drink that’s both hydrating and delightful.

This easy-to-make cocktail is not only visually appealing but also incredibly simple to whip up. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a taste of summer in every sip!

Ingredients

• 2 cups watermelon, diced
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
• 1 cup club soda
• Ice cubes
• Watermelon slices and mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. Blend the Watermelon: In a blender, puree the diced watermelon until smooth. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher, discarding the pulp.
2. Muddle the Mint: In the bottom of a glass, muddle the fresh mint leaves with sugar and lime juice to release the mint’s flavor.
3. Mix the Drink: Fill the glass with ice cubes, then pour in the watermelon juice and top it off with club soda. Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish: Add a slice of watermelon and a sprig of mint for a gorgeous finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Mojito!

Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash

The Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash is a delightful summer cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and herbal flavors. Fresh strawberries and aromatic basil come together with bourbon for a refreshing drink that’s simple to whip up, making it a go-to option for warm evenings and gatherings.

This cocktail offers a lively combination of tartness from the strawberries and a fragrant hint of basil, creating a vibrant taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make in just a few steps, so you can spend more time enjoying your company and less time behind the bar!

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 4-5 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves
• Ice
• Soda water (optional)
• Strawberries and basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Muddle the strawberries and basil: In a cocktail shaker, add the sliced strawberries and basil leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle them together.
2. Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup: Pour in the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice. If desired, top with a splash of soda water for a fizz.
4. Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with additional strawberries and a basil leaf. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita

Looking for a refreshing twist on a classic cocktail? The Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita is your answer! This drink combines the coolness of cucumber with a spicy kick from jalapeños, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have at home.

Each sip is a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and tart, making it an ideal choice for warm evenings on the patio. Serve it over ice for a refreshing beverage that’s sure to impress your friends and family at your next barbecue or party.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz cucumber juice
• 1/2 oz agave syrup
• 1-2 slices of fresh jalapeño (adjust to taste)
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice
• Cucumber slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Start by rimming your glass with lime juice and dipping it into salt to coat the rim. This adds an extra layer of flavor.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, fresh lime juice, cucumber juice, agave syrup, and jalapeño slices. Muddle the jalapeño lightly to release its flavor.
3. Shake It Up: Add ice to the shaker, then shake well until the mixture is chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass filled with ice. Garnish with cucumber slices and an extra jalapeño slice if desired.

Peach Bellini

The Peach Bellini is a delightful drink that captures the essence of summer with its refreshing and fruity flavors. This cocktail combines sweet peach puree with bubbly prosecco, creating a light and effervescent beverage perfect for warm days or special occasions.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also brings a taste of elegance to any gathering. You can whip it up in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for brunches or backyard parties. Let’s dive into making this lovely drink!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe peaches, peeled and pitted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
• 1 bottle of chilled prosecco
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Peach Puree: In a blender, puree the peeled and pitted peaches until smooth. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add the sugar and blend until well combined.
2. Prepare the Glasses: Pour a small amount of the peach puree into the bottom of each champagne flute.
3. Add the Prosecco: Slowly pour chilled prosecco over the peach puree, filling the glass almost to the top. Stir gently to mix.
4. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with a fresh mint leaf. Enjoy immediately!

Blueberry Thyme Gin Spritz

The Blueberry Thyme Gin Spritz is a refreshing drink, perfect for those warm summer days. With the delightful sweetness of blueberries and the aromatic touch of thyme, it strikes a beautiful balance between fruity and herbal notes.

This cocktail is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. It’s an excellent choice for casual gatherings or a quiet evening on the porch.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1 ounce blueberry syrup
• 3 ounces tonic water
• Fresh blueberries (for garnish)
• Thyme sprigs (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and blueberry syrup. Fill with ice and shake well.
2. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
3. Top with tonic water and gently stir to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh blueberries and a sprig of thyme before serving.

Grilled Pineapple Mezcal Sour

The Grilled Pineapple Mezcal Sour is a delightful summer drink that combines the smoky flavors of mezcal with the sweetness of grilled pineapple. It’s a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for warm evenings, adding a twist of tropical vibes to your gatherings. This drink is simple to make, allowing you to impress your friends with minimal effort.

With its balanced blend of acidity from the citrus and sweetness from the pineapple, every sip brings a burst of flavor that dances on your palate. The grilled element enhances the richness, making it a standout choice for your summer drink repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into rings
• 1 1/2 oz mezcal
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 3/4 oz agave syrup
• 1 egg white
• Ice cubes
• Pinch of salt
• Grilled pineapple slice for garnish

Instructions

1. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the pineapple rings for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have nice grill marks and are softened.
2. Blend the Ingredients: In a shaker, combine the grilled pineapple, mezcal, lime juice, agave syrup, egg white, and a pinch of salt. Dry shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake again for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a grilled pineapple slice.

Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade

Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade is a refreshing summer drink that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. The combination of juicy blackberries and the warmth of bourbon creates a delightful beverage that’s perfect for sipping by the pool or at a backyard barbecue.

This cocktail is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. You’ll enjoy the vibrant color and refreshing taste, making it an ideal choice for hot summer days.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Club soda
• Iced cubes
• Fresh lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Muddle blackberries: In a glass, add fresh blackberries and muddle them to release their juices.
2. Add bourbon and lemon juice: Pour in the bourbon and fresh lemon juice, mixing well.
3. Sweeten: Add the simple syrup to the mixture, adjusting to taste.
4. Add ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes and top with club soda.
5. Garnish: Stir gently and garnish with lemon slices and extra blackberries if desired.

White Sangria With Summer Stone Fruits

White sangria with summer stone fruits is a refreshing twist on the classic sangria. Bursting with the flavors of juicy peaches, cherries, and other seasonal fruits, this drink is perfect for warm days. It combines crisp white wine with a hint of sweetness and a touch of citrus, creating a light and delicious beverage that’s easy to sip on.

This recipe is simple to make, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or a relaxing afternoon at home. Just chop up your favorite fruits, mix them with wine and a splash of soda, and let everything chill. In no time, you’ll have a delightful drink that captures the essence of summer.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 cup peach slices (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup club soda or lemon-lime soda
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a large pitcher, combine the peach slices and cherries. If using fresh fruit, wash and slice them beforehand.
2. Add the Liquid: Pour in the white wine, orange juice, and brandy (if using). Stir gently to combine.
3. Sweeten the Mix: Add sugar to taste, stirring until dissolved. The amount of sugar will depend on the sweetness of your fruit and wine.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Just before serving, add the club soda or lemon-lime soda for fizz. Pour into glasses over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy your refreshing summer drink!

Frozen Mango Daiquiri

The Frozen Mango Daiquiri is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of summer with its sweet and tangy flavor. Blending ripe mangoes with rum and a splash of lime juice, this drink is perfect for warm afternoons or lively gatherings. It’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it a go-to choice for both seasoned mixologists and casual sippers alike.

This delightful frozen treat not only looks appealing but also offers a burst of tropical flavors that dance on your palate. With its creamy texture and zesty notes, it’s like a mini-vacation in a glass. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, this Frozen Mango Daiquiri is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup white rum
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 2 cups ice

Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the mango chunks, white rum, lime juice, and sugar (if using). Add the ice and blend until smooth and slushy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or lime flavor as needed.
3. Serve: Pour the frozen daiquiri into chilled glasses. Garnish with a slice of lime or a mango wedge if desired.
4. Enjoy: Sip and enjoy your refreshing Frozen Mango Daiquiri!

Honeydew Cucumber Cooler With Gin

Beat the summer heat with a refreshing Honeydew Cucumber Cooler with Gin! This drink combines the light sweetness of honeydew melon with the crispness of cucumber, creating a delightful sip that’s both hydrating and invigorating. The addition of gin adds a subtle botanical flavor, making this cocktail a perfect companion for lazy afternoons or lively gatherings.

Simple to make and packed with fresh ingredients, this cooler is not only easy to prepare but also offers a unique twist on traditional summer drinks. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can treat yourself and your friends to a drink that’s as refreshing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup honeydew melon, pureed
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
• Club soda, to top
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Honeydew: Start by cutting the honeydew melon into chunks and blending them until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp, if desired.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a shaker, combine the honeydew puree, cucumber slices, gin, lime juice, and honey or agave syrup. Muddle the cucumber slightly to release its flavor.
3. Shake and Serve: Fill the shaker with ice, shake well, and strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.
4. Top with Club Soda: Add club soda to fill the glass and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish: Finish with fresh mint leaves and a few additional cucumber slices for a refreshing touch. Enjoy your cooler!

Rosé Berry Slushie

The Rosé Berry Slushie is a delightful, refreshing treat perfect for hot summer days. This drink combines the light, fruity flavors of rosé wine with a mix of fresh berries, creating a slushy texture that’s both fun and satisfying.

Not only is it a breeze to whip up, but it’s also a great way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of summer. The sweetness of the berries balances beautifully with the crispness of the rosé, making it an ideal drink for gatherings or a relaxing afternoon by the pool.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of rosé wine (750 ml)
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups ice
• Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Blend the berries: In a blender, combine mixed berries and simple syrup. Blend until smooth.
2. Mix with rosé: Pour the blended berry mixture into a large pitcher and stir in the rosé wine.
3. Add ice: In the blender, add the ice and blend until crushed. Fold this into the berry and wine mixture until combined.
4. Serve: Pour the slushie into glasses and garnish with mint leaves. Enjoy immediately!

Cantaloupe Prosecco Punch

Summer is all about refreshing drinks that bring a burst of flavor to your gatherings. The Cantaloupe Prosecco Punch is a delightful blend of sweet cantaloupe and bubbly prosecco, making it an easy-to-make option that’s perfect for warm days. This light and fruity drink is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for parties.

The combination of cantaloupe and prosecco creates a sweet, effervescent beverage that’s sure to please your guests. It’s simple to whip up and can even be made in larger batches for a crowd, allowing you to enjoy your time with friends while sipping on this refreshing punch.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cantaloupe, pureed
• 2 cups prosecco
• 1 cup club soda
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cantaloupe: Cut the cantaloupe in half, remove the seeds, and scoop out the flesh. Blend it in a blender until smooth.
2. Mix the Punch: In a large pitcher, combine the cantaloupe puree, prosecco, club soda, and lime juice. Stir gently to combine.
3. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the punch over the ice, and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy your refreshing drink!

Cherry Lime Rickey With Rum

The Cherry Lime Rickey with Rum is a refreshing cocktail that perfectly blends sweet and tart flavors. The bright notes of cherry and zesty lime come together with a splash of rum, creating a drink that’s both delicious and easy to make.

Ideal for summer gatherings, this cocktail is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful taste that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying a barbecue with friends, this drink will surely enhance your experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry juice
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1-2 teaspoons simple syrup (optional, to taste)
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Fresh cherries and lime slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker, combine cherry juice, fresh lime juice, and white rum. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add simple syrup to taste.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
4. Top off with club soda for a fizzy finish.
5. Garnish with fresh cherries and lime slices before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Cherry Lime Rickey with Rum!

Grapefruit Paloma

The Grapefruit Paloma is a refreshing cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With its bright, citrusy flavors and a hint of sweetness, it’s a delightful drink for warm days. Not only does it taste great, but it’s also super simple to whip up, making it a go-to choice for casual gatherings or relaxing afternoons.

This cocktail combines the tartness of grapefruit with the smoothness of tequila, creating a balanced drink that’s easy to enjoy. The addition of a salted rim adds a savory touch, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a barbecue, the Grapefruit Paloma is sure to quench your thirst and uplift your spirits.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• Club soda to top off
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Grapefruit slice and rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it in salt to coat.
2. Mix the Drink: In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice and shake well.
3. Pour and Top: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice. Top off with club soda.
4. Garnish: Add a grapefruit slice and a sprig of rosemary for a pop of color and flavor.

Frozen Strawberry Rosé (Frosé)

Refreshing and fruity, Frozen Strawberry Rosé, or Frosé, is the ultimate summer drink. This slushy cocktail combines the delicate flavors of rosé wine with sweet strawberries, making it a delightful treat for warm days. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and a blender.

The taste is a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, complemented by the chilled, slushy texture. It’s a fun and casual drink that’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply relaxing in your backyard. Get ready to impress your friends with this vibrant and delicious beverage!

Ingredients

• 2 cups frozen strawberries
• 1 bottle (750 ml) rosé wine
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh strawberries for garnish

Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the frozen strawberries, rosé wine, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and slushy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste and add more simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink. Blend again.
3. Serve: Pour the Frosé into glasses and garnish with fresh strawberries on the rim.
4. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing drink with friends!

Grilled Peach Old Fashioned

The Grilled Peach Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, bringing the essence of summer right to your glass. With the sweet, smoky flavor of grilled peaches combined with the rich notes of bourbon, this drink is both refreshing and sophisticated. It’s straightforward to make, making it a great option for gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.

This cocktail highlights the natural sweetness of peaches, balancing it with the bitterness of the cocktail bitters and the warmth of bourbon. Each sip is a delicious journey that evokes lazy summer afternoons. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply unwinding after a long day, this drink is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes until charred and softened.
2. Remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool slightly. Muddle one half in a mixing glass with simple syrup and bitters.
3. Add the bourbon and ice cubes to the mixing glass. Stir for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice, then garnish with the remaining grilled peach half and mint leaves.

Fresh Herb Garden Gin Fizz

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing drink, and the Fresh Herb Garden Gin Fizz is just the ticket. This cocktail combines the crisp flavor of gin with the fresh notes of herbs, creating a delightful balance that’s both invigorating and aromatic. It’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for backyard gatherings or a quiet evening on the porch.

The combination of citrus and herbs brings a unique twist to a classic gin fizz. With every sip, you’ll experience a burst of freshness that makes this drink truly special. Let’s dive into the simple recipe so you can enjoy this refreshing beverage all summer long!

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or mint)
• Soda water
• Ice
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker, muddle a few sprigs of fresh herbs to release their flavors.
2. Fill the shaker with ice, then add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake well until combined and chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water and gently stir to combine.
6. Garnish with a sprig of herbs and a slice of lemon.