Malibu Sunset Cocktail Recipe
I didn’t set out to find the perfect summer cocktail. Honestly, I just wanted something cold, easy, and a little fun to sip while sitting outside on a warm afternoon. That’s how the Malibu Sunset Cocktail found its way into my life — and somehow, it stuck.
It started with leftover ingredients from a weekend get-together: a half-empty bottle of coconut rum, some pineapple juice, and that bottle of grenadine we all buy once and forget about. I wasn’t expecting much. But when I poured that grenadine and watched it slowly sink, creating a soft gradient of sunset colors, I paused. It looked… impressive. A lot more impressive than the five minutes it took to make.
One sip later, and I knew this would be my go-to whenever the sun was shining. It’s the kind of drink that doesn’t ask for effort but gives you that vacation feeling in return. Over time, it’s become a bit of a ritual — whether I’m hosting friends or just rewarding myself after a long day.
And if you’re like me, once you’ve got a good drink in hand, you start thinking about what light snack would make it even better. I usually throw together something fresh like this Watermelon Feta Salad, or if I’m expecting company, I’ll keep a Watermelon Slushie ready for those who prefer something booze-free.
Why I Keep Coming Back to the Malibu Sunset Cocktail
There are plenty of cocktails out there — some fancier, some stronger, some with ingredients I can barely pronounce. But the Malibu Sunset Cocktail? It’s simple in the best way possible.
It’s not just about the tropical flavors (though the mix of pineapple and coconut never fails). It’s also about how it looks — like you put in way more effort than you actually did. Every time I serve it, someone comments on the colors. And every time, I smile and let them think I’ve mastered some bartending magic.
But here’s the truth: it’s three ingredients, some ice, and a slow pour. That’s it. It’s sweet, refreshing, and light enough that you can enjoy it without feeling weighed down — exactly what I want in a summer drink recipe.
What’s in My Malibu Sunset Cocktail? Just the Basics.
I’m not one to clutter my kitchen with specialty bottles I’ll only use once. That’s another reason I love this drink — everything you need is easy to find and likely already in your pantry or fridge.
Here’s what I grab when I’m making one:
Plenty of crushed ice (it makes a difference)
4 oz pineapple juice — always 100%, never the sugary blends
2 oz coconut rum
1/2 oz grenadine
A fresh pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry for garnish
I learned early on that cutting corners with ingredients changes the drink — and not in a good way. Stick with pure juice and a decent grenadine, and your Malibu Sunset Cocktail will taste as good as it looks.
How I Make My Malibu Sunset Cocktail — No Fuss, No Stress
I’ve probably made this drink more times than I can count. Sometimes for guests, sometimes just for me. Either way, the process never changes — and that’s part of the charm.
1. Fill the Glass with Ice
I like using a tall glass and loading it with crushed ice. Not only does it keep things cold, but it also helps with that layered effect.
2. Shake the Juice and Rum
In a shaker — or if I’m being honest, sometimes just a mason jar — I mix the pineapple juice and coconut rum with a bit of ice. A quick shake until it’s chilled.
3. Pour Over Ice
I strain the mix into my glass. At this point, it already smells like a beachside bar.
4. Add the Grenadine (Slowly!)
This is where patience pays off. I pour the grenadine gently into the center and let it settle. Watching the colors shift is half the fun.
5. Garnish and Relax
A slice of pineapple, a cherry, maybe even a paper umbrella if I’m feeling festive. Then it’s time to sit back and enjoy.
A Few Things I’ve Learned Along the Way
After making the Malibu Sunset Cocktail so many times, I’ve picked up a couple of habits:
If I’m in the mood for something stronger, I’ll swap in a bit of white rum. It gives the drink a nice little edge.
When friends come over, I prep a pitcher of pineapple juice and rum ahead of time. Then I just pour, add ice, and finish each glass with grenadine. Easy and always a hit.
I stopped buying the cheapest grenadine on the shelf. It’s worth spending a little more for better flavor.
And whenever I’m hosting, I like to have a Watermelon Slushie nearby — it’s refreshing, looks great on the table, and gives everyone an option.
Mistakes I’ve Definitely Made (So You Don’t Have To)
I’ll admit, my first few attempts weren’t perfect. Here’s what I figured out:
Pouring grenadine too fast turns your pretty layers into a pink blur. Slow is key.
I once used a “juice cocktail” instead of pure pineapple juice. Big mistake — way too sweet.
Skipping the garnish might save a few seconds, but it takes away from the whole experience. Trust me, the little details matter with the Malibu Sunset Cocktail.
Other Tropical Drinks I Reach for When I’m Not Making This One
While the Malibu Sunset Cocktail holds a special place in my summer routine, I do like to mix things up now and then. A few favorites:
The Painkiller Cocktail when I want something creamy and indulgent.
Jamaican Rum Punch for those lively afternoons with friends.
A classic Piña Colada when I’m craving something frozen.
The Rum Runner when I’m feeling adventurous.
Why I’ll Always Have a Soft Spot for the Malibu Sunset Cocktail
There’s something to be said for a recipe that never lets you down. The Malibu Sunset Cocktail doesn’t try to be fancy or complicated — and that’s exactly why I love it.
It’s become more than just a drink for me. It’s a signal to slow down, enjoy the weather, and make even the simplest moments feel like a treat. Whether I’m pairing it with a light bite like my Watermelon Feta Salad, or just enjoying it on its own, it always delivers that little taste of summer I’m looking for.
So if you’re searching for an easy, beautiful, and refreshingly simple cocktail to add to your lineup, this is it. Give it a try — I have a feeling it’ll become your go-to too.
Malibu Sunset Cocktail
Ingredients
- Crushed or pebbled ice
- 4 oz 100% pineapple juice
- 2 oz coconut rum
- 1/2 oz grenadine
- 1 fresh pineapple wedge for garnish
- 1 maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball or tall glass with crushed or pebbled ice.
- In a shaker, combine pineapple juice and coconut rum with ice. Shake until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over ice.
- Slowly pour grenadine into the center of the drink, allowing it to settle and create a layered sunset effect.
- Garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a stronger version, substitute half the coconut rum with white rum.
- Use pure pineapple juice to avoid an overly sweet cocktail.
- Pour grenadine slowly to maintain the beautiful layered look.
- Easily scale up by mixing pineapple juice and rum in a pitcher for parties—add grenadine individually to each glass.
