How To Make Refreshing Summer Cocktails For Fun Beachside Sipping

Are you looking for some refreshing summer cocktails to enjoy on the water this summer? Check out these easy drink recipes along with some great tips for a delightful time with your friends.

When You Have A Lake House You Must Get A Boat!

For many of us, summers in Michigan revolve around lots of lake time. Some fish, some surf or ski, and some just like to float.

In our family, we like to do it all. But what I love the most is going out on the pontoon with friends and family to just relax and enjoy each other’s company.

On our lake, we have lots of places to anchor and enjoy swimming, sun, and socializing. We usually have a plan for weekend meet-ups where we anchor together, eat, drink, and have fun. 

Occasionally I will bring a jug of one of my fun cocktails for everyone to enjoy. I will jump from boat to boat, filling people’s cups with my tasty concoctions. We have even done this in the Caribbean on our favorite island. 

Choosing The Right Cocktails For Your Day

Whether you’re fishing, swimming, or just lounging on a boat, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of the sun on your face and the wind in your hair – and a drink in hand.

There are countless mouthwatering summer cocktail recipes, but not all of them are suitable for a day on the lake. I have learned this the hard way- like if you are surfing, it’s probably not the right time for Margaritas!

When choosing cocktails to enjoy on the water, it’s important to consider factors such as what you will be doing on the water, ease of preparation, portability, and how well it holds up in the heat.

So please sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of summer cocktails on the lake.

Start With The Right Supplies

When planning for drinks at the beach or on the boat you will need good preparation. First off, having the right items to keep your drinks cool and your ice frozen is a must.

Also, be sure to have lots of snacks to enjoy with your drinks.

Here are some items I highly recommend having on hand to make your day go more smoothly:

1. A 2-liter pitcher that has a tight lid with a good seal
2. Yeti-style cups with lids that are insulated (they will help keep your drinks cold longer)
3. An insulated ice bucket (Good for those hot days)
4. A large enough cooler to hold all of your snacks, drinks, and mixers.
5. Plastic cups (for last-minute guests to be able to taste your refreshing summer cocktails)
6. Plastic shot glasses for samples
7. Plenty of bottled water

The Most Refreshing Summer Cocktails In A Pitcher

Cadillac Margarita

The Margarita is a classic cocktail that is perfect for sipping on the lake. Made with tequila, lime juice, and Grand Marnier, it is both refreshing and tangy. 

Here are the ingredients and instructions for making a jug of my Cadillac Margarita that serves six: If you would like my individual Margarita Recipe click here!

• 9 oz. Reposado Tequila
• 6 oz Grand Marnier
• 6 oz. Lime Juice
• 3 oz Simple Syrup
• (Those who prefer can substitute 15 oz Margarita Mix in place of lime juice and simple syrup)
• Salt for rimming the glass (this can be messy on a boat so I usually skip this step)

To make Margaritas, simply combine the ingredients in a plastic container that seals. Shake well. At the time of serving, pour into an ice-filled Yeti (or similar) cup. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy! Serves 6

Mojito

The Mojito is another classic cocktail that is perfect for a day on the lake. I find it the perfect refreshing summer cocktail.

Here are the ingredients and instructions for making Mojitos for 6:

First, Make Your Own Mint (Mojito) Simple Syrup: 

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 12 mint leaves
• 1 lime (cut into wedges)

Place ingredients into a saucepan. Muddle mint and lime.  Cover and lightly simmer for 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Let cool. Strain out mint and lime, then place in a sealed container (keep for up to 10 days).

Mojito Jug Recipe

• 12 oz. White Rum
• 6 oz. Lime Juice
• 6 Tbsp Simple Syrup (see above)
• 1 Bunch of  Fresh Mint Leaves (approx. 80)
• Soda water

To make your jug of  Mojitos, put rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and approx 60 mint leaves into a container. Muddle the mint leaves to release the flavor. When serving, pour the mix into cups filled with ice and a sprig of mint. Top with soda water and stir. Enjoy!

Rum Punch

Rum Punch is a tropical cocktail that you can mix up in larger quantities for a fun boozy day on the lake. This is one of my favorite cocktails for the beach. Made with two kinds of rum it packs a nice kick for you and 5 of your closest friends. 

Here are the ingredients and instructions for making a Rum Punch:

• ½ Cup white rum
• ½ Cup Dark Rum
• ¾ Cup Grenadine
• 1 ½ Cup Orange Juice
• 1 ½ Cup Pineapple juice
• ½ Cup Lime Juice
• Cherries and orange slices for garnish

To make Rum Punch simply mix the ingredients in a travel-safe pitcher with a small amount of ice to chill. When ready to serve, pour into a cup filled with ice, and garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. Enjoy!

Sea Breeze

This cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day on the lake. The tartness of this delicious concoction will jazz up your waterside afternoon. Here is a simple recipe to try:

• 8 oz Ketel One Vodka
• 16 oz Cranberry Juice
• 8 oz Grapefruit Juice
• 2 Limes Cut Into Wedges
• Ice

Mix ingredients into your pitcher. Add a few lime wedges and chill. Serve over ice and add an additional lime wedge into the glass. Makes 6

Blueberry Lemonade Vodka Fizz

I find this drink perfect for summer! This cocktail is a delicious combination of sweet and tart flavors that must be shared! The blueberries add a burst of fresh flavor and color, while the lemonade and vodka provide a refreshing kick. 

Here is my easy recipe to try:

• 1 ½  Cups Smirnoff Blueberry Vodka
• 3  Cups Lemonade
• 3 Cups Fresh Blueberries
• 1 Cup Club Soda (or Sprite)
• Lemon slices for garnish

Slightly muddle the blueberries. Then add the lemonade and vodka and stir. Next top with club soda and a few lemon slices. When serving pour into an ice-filled cup and garnish with a lemon slice and a few blueberries. Serves 6

Strawberry Basil Gin and Tonic (Renee’s Favorite)

Refreshing summer gin cocktails are a big hit these days. This cocktail has a fruity and herbaceous twist on the classic gin and tonic. The strawberries add a sweet flavor, while the basil provides a fresh and aromatic element. 

• 12 Fresh Strawberries
• 12 Fresh Basil Leaves
• 1 ½  Cups Tangueray Gin
• 1 Cup Tonic water
• 2 Limes (cut into wedges) for garnish

Muddle the strawberries and basil in your pitcher. Add the gin and stir. Next top with tonic water and stir again. Chill. When serving, garnish with a lime slice. Serves 6

Peach Bourbon Iced Tea

This cocktail is a Southern classic with a twist. The peach and bourbon flavors combine perfectly with the black tea to create a refreshing and flavorful beverage. 

Try this simple recipe:

• 3 Cups Brewed Black Tea (cooled)
• 1 ½  Cups Peach  Nectar
• 1 ½ Cups Bourbon
• Lemon Slices for garnish

Combine the black tea, peach nectar, and bourbon in a pitcher then stir. When serving, pour over ice and garnish with a lemon slice.

Mocktail Options for Non-Alcoholic Beverages on the Lake

Here are a few cocktails that will light up your taste buds without the alcohol. But don’t be fooled they taste wonderful!

Cucumber Limeade

Cucumber limeade is a light and refreshing mocktail that is perfect for staying hydrated on the lake.  It takes a bit of prep but you will be so happy you put in the extra effort. It tastes just like summer in a glass!

• 1 Cup Fresh Lime Juice (7-8 Limes)
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 ½ TBSP Lime Zest (about 3 limes)
• 2 Cups Water
• ¼ Cup Mint Leaves
• 4 Cups Lemon/Lime Seltzer
• 1 Cucumber (sliced thin)

In a saucepan place juice, sugar, lime zest, and water. Then simmer and stir until the sugar is dissolved (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, add the mint leaves, and let sit for about 30 minutes. Strain into a pitcher and stir in cucumber slices. Chill for at least 1 hour. When you are ready to serve add seltzer. Serve over ice. Makes 1 Quart

Ginger Beer and Lime

Ginger beer and lime is a simple mocktail that packs a flavorful punch and is so refreshing in the hot sun.

Mix a can of ginger beer and a small squeeze of lime juice in your favorite boat cup. Add ice and garnish with a slice of lime for a refreshing, thirst-quenching drink.

Enjoy Your Summer Sipping All The Way To Sunset

These summer cocktails are the perfect way to beat the heat and relax on the lake. With a wide variety of options available, there is a cocktail for almost everyone.

We have a great Cocktail Journal to collect all of your favorite recipes. Check it out below!

Do you have a favorite go-to summer cocktail? Do you make it for just yourself or share it with your group? We would love for you to share it with Next Cocktails. Cheers!