Sex on the Beach Cocktail Drink

Sex on the Beach

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

To taste summertime anytime, turn to this Sex on the Beach recipe. Gather ingredients and make this refreshing cocktail for a straightforward, delightful drink.

Sex on the Beach Recipe

Savor the breeze of tropical bliss with this simple Sex on the Beach recipe! It's a refreshing melody of vodka, fruit juices, and peach schnapps, perfect for any summer festivity.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

186 kl

Ingredients

  • oz Vodka
  • ½ oz peach Schnapps
  • 2 oz cranberry juice
  • 2 oz orange juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange slice, for garnish, optional
  • Maraschino cherry, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to the brim.
  • Add Peach Schnapps: Pour ½ oz peach Schnapps over the ice into the glass.
  • Add Vodka: Measure 1½ oz Vodka and pour it into the glass.
  • Add Juices: Add 2 oz orange juice and 2 oz cranberry juice.
  • Mix Well: Take a bar spoon and give it a good stir, blending all the flavors.
  • Garnish: Slide an orange slice onto the rim of the glass or float it in the drink, and drop a maraschino cherry on top.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Vodka: When I ran out of vodka, tequila was my go-to, and it added an interesting twist. For a fruitier profile, try using a flavored vodka like raspberry or citrus.
  • Peach Schnapps: When unavailable, I've replaced peach schnapps with peach liqueur or nectar. It's sweeter, so you might want to adjust the juice content to balance the sweetness.
  • Cranberry Juice: Pomegranate juice is a great alternative when cranberry juice isn't at hand. It's tart and adds a wonderful depth of color.
  • Orange Juice: In place of orange juice, try pineapple juice. It alters the taste profile but keeps the tropical vibe alive.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: For a gathering, I usually multiply the ingredients by 8 for a pitcher serving. That's 12 oz of vodka, 4 oz of peach schnapps, and 16 oz each of cranberry and orange juice.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a pitcher and stir. Refrigerate for an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve: Serve in individual ice-filled glasses garnished with an orange slice and a cherry, and watch the smiles appear.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Vodka Substitute: Skip the vodka and use a non-alcoholic spirit or more peach nectar for the body.
  • Peach Schnapps Substitute: Peach syrup or fresh peach puree can replace the schnapps.
  • Proceed As Usual: Mix the non-alcoholic substitutes with the juices as directed and serve with the same festive garnishes for a refreshing mocktail.

Making it Vegan:

  • Some spirit and liqueur brands use animal products in refining, so choose brands known for vegan processes.
  • Opt for organic or natural cranberry and orange juices, as some commercial juices use animal-derived colorings or additives.
  • For the garnish, use vegan maraschino cherries (some standard maraschino cherries use non-vegan dyes).

Nutrition Facts

Calories
186
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.2
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
 
0.02
g
0
%
Sodium
 
2
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
16
g
5
%
Fiber
 
0.2
g
1
%
Sugar
 
15
g
17
%
Potassium
 
157
mg
4
%
Protein
 
1
g
2
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.03
g
Vitamin A
 
139
IU
3
%
Vitamin C
 
34
mg
41
%
Calcium
 
11
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.3
mg
2
%

 

Sex on the Beach Cocktail Drink

Sex on the Beach Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
Jump to Video
Savor the breeze of tropical bliss with this simple Sex on the Beach recipe! It's a refreshing melody of vodka, fruit juices, and peach schnapps, perfect for any summer festivity.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 186

Ingredients
 

  • oz Vodka
  • ½ oz peach Schnapps
  • 2 oz cranberry juice
  • 2 oz orange juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange slice - for garnish, optional
  • Maraschino cherry - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to the brim.
  • Add Peach Schnapps: Pour ½ oz peach Schnapps over the ice into the glass.
  • Add Vodka: Measure 1½ oz Vodka and pour it into the glass.
  • Add Juices: Add 2 oz orange juice and 2 oz cranberry juice.
  • Mix Well: Take a bar spoon and give it a good stir, blending all the flavors.
  • Garnish: Slide an orange slice onto the rim of the glass or float it in the drink, and drop a maraschino cherry on top.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Vodka: When I ran out of vodka, tequila was my go-to, and it added an interesting twist. For a fruitier profile, try using a flavored vodka like raspberry or citrus.
  • Peach Schnapps: When unavailable, I've replaced peach schnapps with peach liqueur or nectar. It's sweeter, so you might want to adjust the juice content to balance the sweetness.
  • Cranberry Juice: Pomegranate juice is a great alternative when cranberry juice isn't at hand. It's tart and adds a wonderful depth of color.
  • Orange Juice: In place of orange juice, try pineapple juice. It alters the taste profile but keeps the tropical vibe alive.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: For a gathering, I usually multiply the ingredients by 8 for a pitcher serving. That's 12 oz of vodka, 4 oz of peach schnapps, and 16 oz each of cranberry and orange juice.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a pitcher and stir. Refrigerate for an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve: Serve in individual ice-filled glasses garnished with an orange slice and a cherry, and watch the smiles appear.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Vodka Substitute: Skip the vodka and use a non-alcoholic spirit or more peach nectar for the body.
  • Peach Schnapps Substitute: Peach syrup or fresh peach puree can replace the schnapps.
  • Proceed As Usual: Mix the non-alcoholic substitutes with the juices as directed and serve with the same festive garnishes for a refreshing mocktail.

Making it Vegan:

  • Some spirit and liqueur brands use animal products in refining, so choose brands known for vegan processes.
  • Opt for organic or natural cranberry and orange juices, as some commercial juices use animal-derived colorings or additives.
  • For the garnish, use vegan maraschino cherries (some standard maraschino cherries use non-vegan dyes).

What is a Sex on the Beach?

A Sex on the Beach is a cocktail combining vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry juice. The drink’s fame rose in the ’80s, capturing the allure of sunny beaches and carefree days in its name. While evoking luxurious beachside bars, this cocktail surprises with its simplicity, inviting everyone to recreate its iconic taste. The name often sparks curiosity, but it’s all in good fun, reflecting the cocktail’s playful, laid-back vibe. The cocktail is also an official drink listed by the International Bartenders Association, making it a well-known classic in the cocktail world.

A side shot of a Sex on the Beach cocktail in a highball glass on a white table with a straw, a jigger, a white cloth, and oranges around, in front of a light green background.

What is Sex on the Beach made of – The ingredients

To prepare an exquisite Sex on the Beach, start with these ingredients:

  • Vodka: Provides a strong base for the cocktail, giving it a crisp, clear foundation without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Peach Schnapps: Adding a sweet, peachy nuance contributes to the drink’s fruity character.
  • Cranberry Juice: Introduces a slightly tart contrast, enhancing the cocktail’s depth and complexity.
  • Orange Juice: Brings a citrusy sweetness, rounding out the flavor profile and adding a refreshing quality.

Peach Liqueur, Vodka, crankberry juice, and two oranges laid out on a white bar table.

How do you make a Sex on the Beach?

Our guide simplifies the process of mixing a Sex on the Beach into easy steps:

1
<p>Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes to set the foundation for a chilled cocktail.</p>

Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes to set the foundation for a chilled cocktail.

2
<p>Add the peach schnapps to introduce a sweet, fruity layer.</p>

Add the peach schnapps to introduce a sweet, fruity layer.

3
<p>Pour in the vodka, serving as your drink’s strong, neutral base.</p>

Pour in the vodka, serving as your drink’s strong, neutral base.

4
<p>Include the orange juice, adding a final sweet and tangy note that brings balance.</p>

Include the orange juice, adding a final sweet and tangy note that brings balance.

5
<p>Follow with cranberry juice, which provides a touch of tartness and a rich color.</p>

Follow with cranberry juice, which provides a touch of tartness and a rich color.

6
<p>Stir the components together thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.</p>

Stir the components together thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.

7
<p>If necessary, add more ice cubes to the highball glass.</p>

If necessary, add more ice cubes to the highball glass.

8
<p>Garnish with an orange slice or a maraschino cherry if desired, adding a visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor.</p>

Garnish with an orange slice or a maraschino cherry if desired, adding a visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor.

9
<p>Enjoy your Sex on the Beach cocktail!</p>

Enjoy your Sex on the Beach cocktail!

Sex on the Beach with Rum

A Sex on the Beach with rum is a twist on the classic cocktail, where rum replaces the traditional vodka. This variant maintains the original’s fruity, sweet profile but introduces rum’s distinct flavors, often adding a hint of warmth or spice depending on the rum used. It’s an appealing option for rum enthusiasts or those seeking a tropical nuance. While it deviates from the classic recipe, this adaptation resonates with those who appreciate rum’s contribution to cocktail flavors.

Sex on the Beach Mocktail

The Sex on the Beach Mocktail replicates the fruity sweetness of the original cocktail without the alcohol, making it a refreshing option for non-drinkers and drinkers alike. To capture the essence of the classic drink, you’ll use a blend of peach nectar or peach juice to mimic the peach schnapps, combined with equal parts of cranberry and orange juice for that familiar tangy-sweet balance. If you’re aiming for a bit more authenticity in flavor, consider adding a splash of non-alcoholic vodka, you can find very interesting ones in the market. Serve it over ice, and you have a vibrant, tropical mix that stays true to the spirit of its alcoholic counterpart, perfect for sunny afternoons, social gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for a beachy vibe without the booze. Garnish with an orange slice or a maraschino cherry to elevate the visual appeal and add an extra sensory layer to this enjoyable, alcohol-free alternative.

A side shot of a Sex on the Beach cocktail in a highball glass on a white cloth placed on a white table with a straw and oranges around, in front of a light green background.

Pre-mixed Sex on the Beach

When it comes to pre-mixed Sex on the Beach, convenience meets flavor in a bottle, and there are a couple of brands that enthusiasts tend to reach for. Twisted Mist is a name that gets attention in this space and is known for its bold flavors. Their rendition of the cocktail combines the fruity zest you’d expect but with an undercurrent of wine’s subtle dryness, adding an unexpected but welcome complexity to each sip. It’s not overly sweet, which is perfect for those who prefer their cocktails with a bit of an edge.

On the other hand, Party Pouch appeals to the health-conscious crowd. Their take on this classic cocktail is all about natural ingredients, no added sugar, and comes in an easy-to-carry bottle. It’s the choice you’d go for when you’re mindful of what you’re consuming but still want a tasty, pre-mixed drink.

Out of the two, Twisted Mist holds a slight edge as a favorite. The reason lies in its balance — it captures the essence of the drink, the peachy-orange-cranberry trio, while the wine’s presence doesn’t overpower but rather complements it.

Variations

Are you on the lookout for different twists? Check out these favorites of ours:

  • Woo Woo: This approach simplifies the original by focusing on peach schnapps and cranberry juice, leaving out the orange juice. The peach schnapps brings a sweet, fragrant quality, while the cranberry juice adds a tart edge. I really enjoy the harmony between the peachy sweetness and the sharpness of the cranberry; it’s refreshing and vibrant.
  • Sex in the Driveway: This eye-catching blue mix swaps the typical juices for blue curaçao and fizzy soda. The blue curaçao introduces a unique citrus flavor, while the soda adds a bubbly, refreshing touch. I’m especially drawn to its striking blue color and the playful, effervescent feel it brings.
  • Creamy Sex on the Beach: This introduces cream or a creamy liqueur, offering a silky, rich texture. The cream smooths out the fruit flavors, creating a softer, more indulgent experience. It’s the velvety texture of this one that I find most appealing; it’s like a luxurious dessert in a glass.
  • Bliss on the Beach: This delightful twist might include champagne or a different fruit liqueur, adding a touch of luxury and fizz. The champagne brings an elegant effervescence, elevating the drink’s sophistication.
  • Safe Sex on the Beach: The non-alcoholic option retains the fruity flavors without the vodka, making it suitable for all ages and occasions. It keeps the spirit of the original while being inclusive for those who prefer or need a non-alcoholic choice.

A Sex on the Beach cocktail, shot from above, on a white marmol table with a Vodka bottle, a cranberry juice bottle, a peach Liqueur, and two oranges around.

History and Origins

The Sex on the Beach cocktail boasts a vibrant history, mirroring its lively name and flavors. Its story begins in the United States in the early 1980s, marked by the rise of sweet, fruity cocktails. The drink’s creation is widely attributed to a bartender named Ted Pizio, who worked in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Eager to win a contest pushing the sales of the newly introduced peach schnapps, Pizio crafted a cocktail that would appeal to the crowds of tourists flocking to Florida for spring break.

Pizio combined the peach schnapps with vodka, orange juice, and cranberry juice, creating a drink that was both easy to make and irresistibly tropical. Needing a catchy name to attract attention, he chose “Sex on the Beach.” The name was a hit, as it perfectly captured the fun, carefree spirit of the times and the allure of sunny Florida beaches.

The cocktail quickly gained popularity, spreading from the sun-kissed bars of Florida to establishments across the country. Over the years, the drink has seen numerous variations, but the original mix remains a favorite.

 

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FAQ

How many calories are in a Sex on the Beach?
The standard version contain approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the specific quantities and brands of ingredients used.
How strong is Sex on the Beach?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) is around 11-12%, which translates to about 22-24 proof, given that it mixes spirits and juices.
What alcohol is used in a Sex on the Beach?
The drink traditionally uses vodka and peach schnapps.
In which glass is a Sex on the Beach typically served?
This cocktail is commonly served in a highball glass.
What does a Sex on the Beach taste like?
It tastes fruity and sweet, with the crispness of vodka, the sweetness of peach schnapps, and the tartness of cranberry and orange juices creating a balanced flavor profile.
What is the ratio of ingredients in a Sex on the Beach?
The typical ratio is 1.5 part vodka, 0.5 part peach schnapps, 2 cranberry juice, and 2 orange juice.
How is a Sex on the Beach usually served in terms of ice?
It's typically served over ice, meaning the drink is poured over ice cubes and served immediately, ensuring it's cold and refreshing.

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