Sex on the Beach Cocktail | Vodka, Peach Schnapps, Cranberry & Orange Juice
A vibrant, fruit-forward classic blending vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry, and orange juice. Smooth, sweet, and tart in perfect harmony—this drink captures the carefree spirit of summer in every glass.
Intro
Sex on the Beach is one of the most iconic modern cocktails—bright, easy-drinking, and unapologetically fun. Its balance of vodka, fruit liqueur, and tangy juice makes it a mainstay from beach bars to brunch menus.
Background
Born in the 1980s during America’s flavored-liqueur boom, the drink rose to fame thanks to its cheeky name and approachable sweetness. Despite its lighthearted origins, it remains a balanced, refreshing cocktail when built with quality ingredients.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – 1½ oz
- Peach Schnapps – ½ oz
- Orange Juice – 2 oz
- Cranberry Juice – 2 oz
- Grenadine – ½ oz
Equipment
Highball glass · Bar spoon · Jigger · Ice
Flavor Profile
A tart-sweet fruit medley with a soft peach backbone and citrus lift. The grenadine adds color and gentle sweetness without overpowering the base spirits.
Variations & Twists
- Fuzzy Beach: Use pineapple juice instead of cranberry for a tropical tone.
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with crushed ice for a slushy serve.
- Light Edition: Halve the grenadine and top with soda water for a spritz-style drink.
Tips
Use 100 % juice for best color and flavor. Chill ingredients before mixing. Serve immediately to preserve layering.
Sex On The Beach Recipe
Type of Glass
Highball Glass
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz.
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 2 oz.
- 2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add vodka and peach schnapps.
- Pour in orange and cranberry juice.
- Drizzle grenadine slowly for a layered look.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
A true 1980s icon—colorful, refreshing, and timeless. Sex on the Beach proves that simple ingredients, when balanced right, can stay forever modern.
