Sex on the beach

Sex on the Beach

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A vibrant, fruity cocktail with vodka, peach schnapps, and tropical juices that captures the essence of summer beach parties.

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Recipe

1 cocktail (200ml)
  • Vodka 
    45 ml
  • Peach Schnapps 
    20 ml
  • Cranberry Juice 
    45 ml
  • Orange Juice 
    45 ml
  • Lemon Wheel 
    1 piece
  • Maraschino Cherry 
    1 piece
Recipe credit: Classic 1980s Florida beach bar creation

Instructions

Step

Fill a hurricane glass with ice cubes and set aside to chill.

Step

Add vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

Step

Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to properly chill and integrate all flavors.

Step

Strain the mixture into the prepared hurricane glass over fresh ice.

Step

Garnish with an orange wheel and maraschino cherry, securing both with a cocktail pick if desired.

Step

Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy this tropical escape.

Equipment

Shaker
Hawthorne Strainer
Jigger
Bar spoon

Description

The Sex on the Beach cocktail originated in Florida during the 1980s as part of a peach schnapps promotion. This iconic drink quickly became a worldwide favorite thanks to its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, beautiful sunset colors, and refreshing character. The cocktail embodies the fun-loving, carefree atmosphere of Florida’s party scene and remains a staple at beach bars and summer gatherings.

Nutritional information

1 cocktail (200ml)
Calories
245
ABV
16.2 %
Alcohol
20.5 g
Carbs
22 g
Carbs from Sugar
20 g
Fat
0.1 g
Protein
0.8 g
Sodium
8 mg
Nutritional information is approximate and includes estimated 30% dilution from ice. Values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.
Allergens
Sulfites

Tips & Notes

  • For the most vibrant color and best flavor, use 100% cranberry juice rather than cranberry cocktail, which contains added sugars and artificial flavors.

  • Shake the cocktail vigorously for proper integration - building directly in the glass creates a beautiful layered effect but results in less flavor harmony.

  • Always use freshly squeezed orange juice when possible, as it provides superior taste and natural sweetness compared to bottled varieties.

  • For a frozen version perfect for pool parties, blend all ingredients with 1 cup of ice until smooth and serve in a hurricane glass.

  • Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of peach schnapps - use less for a more tart drink or add a splash of grenadine for extra sweetness and color.

Absolutely! Pineapple juice creates a more tropical flavor profile and is commonly used in many variations. The drink will be slightly more tart and exotic tasting.

Build the drink directly in the glass by pouring the cranberry juice first, then slowly pouring the orange juice over the back of a bar spoon to create distinct layers. Add the spirits last for the full ombre effect.

Bay Breeze contains vodka, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice but no peach schnapps or orange juice. Sex on the Beach is sweeter and more complex due to the peach schnapps addition.

You can mix the liquid ingredients in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours, but add ice and garnish just before serving to maintain proper dilution and presentation.

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Cocktail Difficulty Levels

We’ve added a difficulty rating to every cocktail so you’ll know what to expect before you start mixing. It’s not about being “hard” or “easy” in the strict sense—it’s about how much preparation, skill, and hunting for ingredients you’ll need.

  • Beginner – Quick builds or simple shakes with common ingredients you’ll likely already have at home. Perfect for beginners or a casual evening.

  • Intermediate – A bit more technique (stirring, shaking, muddling, layering) and a few extra ingredients. You might need to buy one or two bottles or garnishes you don’t already stock.

  • Advanced – Multiple steps, specialty techniques (infusions, syrups, foams), or rare ingredients. These drinks take more effort and planning, but reward you with something truly impressive.

The rating is based on things like the number of ingredients, how rare they are, and the skills needed to bring the cocktail together.

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Quick recipe

Ingredients

  • Vodka
    45 ml
  • Peach Schnapps
    20 ml
  • Cranberry Juice
    45 ml
  • Orange Juice
    45 ml
  • Lemon Wheel
    1 piece
  • Maraschino Cherry
    1 piece

Method

  1. Fill a hurricane glass with ice cubes and set aside to chill.
  2. Add vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to properly chill and integrate all flavors.
  4. Strain the mixture into the prepared hurricane glass over fresh ice.
  5. Garnish with an orange wheel and maraschino cherry, securing both with a cocktail pick if desired.
  6. Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy this tropical escape.