Malibu Bay Breeze Cocktail Recipe

There’s something about the crisp, tropical vibes of a Malibu Bay Breeze that instantly transports you to a sun-drenched beach, toes in the sand, and a warm breeze on your skin. This cocktail blends coconut rum, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice into a fruity, refreshing drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

The first time I made a Malibu Bay Breeze, it was on a whim during a girls’ night in. We were craving something light and tropical, and this simple drink stole the spotlight. It’s now my go-to cocktail whenever I want something easy, flavorful, and undeniably fun to sip.

Let’s dive into what makes this cocktail a must-have for your home bartending rotation.

Why You'll Love This Malibu Bay Breeze Cocktail

Get ready to meet your new favorite happy hour drink. The Malibu Bay Breeze is vibrant, simple to make, and perfect for any occasion, whether you're poolside or just winding down after work.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just three ingredients and no fancy tools, you can mix this up in under five minutes. It’s practically foolproof, even if you're new to mixing drinks.

It’s also an absolute crowd-pleaser. The balance of sweet pineapple, tart cranberry, and smooth coconut rum makes it universally appealing – not too strong, not too sweet.

The presentation is stunning. Thanks to the layered juices, the Malibu Bay Breeze boasts a beautiful ombré effect in the glass. It’s one of those drinks that looks as good as it tastes.

And let’s not forget versatility. You can serve it over ice, blend it into a frozen drink, or even scale it up for a party punch bowl. However you choose to enjoy it, this cocktail fits the vibe.

Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue or a laid-back movie night, the Malibu Bay Breeze brings a splash of summer to every sip.

Ingredient Notes

The charm of this cocktail lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient adds a distinct layer of flavor, creating a drink that’s refreshing, well-balanced, and just the right amount of sweet.

Malibu Coconut Rum is the star of the show. Its light, tropical coconut flavor adds a beachy twist to the drink that’s instantly recognizable. You can substitute with other coconut-flavored rums, but nothing quite matches the smoothness of Malibu.

Pineapple juice gives the cocktail its bright, juicy sweetness. Go for 100% pineapple juice if possible—fresh or bottled both work, though cold-pressed options will bring the most flavor.

Cranberry juice balances out the sweetness with a slight tart edge. For a more vibrant color and cleaner taste, use a cranberry juice cocktail rather than straight unsweetened cranberry juice, unless you prefer a sharper finish.

Ice plays a surprisingly important role. Since this drink is served over ice, it helps dilute and chill the mixture just right. Use plenty of fresh ice cubes to keep everything cold without overwhelming the flavors.

You won’t need any special bar tools—just a highball or cocktail glass, a measuring jigger (or shot glass), and a spoon for layering, if you want to keep the ombré effect.

How To Make This Malibu Bay Breeze Cocktail

Whipping up this cocktail is just about as easy as it gets. Whether you're making one or a whole tray, the process is fast and straightforward.

Start by filling a tall glass with ice. You want it about three-quarters full to ensure a good chill without overflowing once the liquids go in. Clear ice cubes work best for a clean look, especially if you're going for presentation points.

Next, pour in 2 ounces of Malibu Coconut Rum. Let it cascade over the ice, coating the cubes and giving the drink a solid tropical base. No need to shake—this cocktail is all about easy layers.

Then add 2 ounces of pineapple juice. Pour it gently over the rum so the two can begin to mix. You’ll start to see the cocktail take on that signature golden hue, like a sunset in a glass.

To finish, slowly pour 2 ounces of cranberry juice over the back of a spoon just above the drink. This creates the classic layered effect, with the cranberry settling at the bottom and pushing the pineapple rum mix upward.

Give it a quick stir if you prefer a fully blended flavor, or leave it layered for a visual treat. Garnish with a lime wedge, pineapple slice, or even a maraschino cherry if you’re feeling festive.

The whole process takes less than five minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect last-minute drink for any gathering or solo unwind session.

Storage Options

While this cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep parts of it ahead if you're hosting or batching drinks.

If you're mixing for a group, combine the Malibu rum and pineapple juice in a pitcher and chill. When it’s time to serve, pour over ice and top with cranberry juice individually to preserve the layered look.

Any leftover juice or rum should be stored separately in the fridge in their original containers or tightly sealed jars. Be sure to shake the juice well before each use, as separation is natural.

If you’ve already mixed the cocktail and have leftovers, you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just note that the ice will dilute the drink, so strain out the ice before storing for best results.

To re-serve, pour the chilled mix over fresh ice, and add a splash of cranberry juice for brightness and color.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about the Malibu Bay Breeze is how easily you can tweak it to fit your taste or pantry.

Want it a little stronger? Add a splash of vodka or substitute half the coconut rum with white rum for a punchier finish. It changes the profile just enough without losing that tropical charm.

Not a fan of coconut? Swap the Malibu for regular white rum or even a flavored vodka. Mango or pineapple vodka work great here and still deliver those beachy vibes.

For a mocktail version, simply replace the rum with coconut water or coconut-flavored soda. You’ll keep the refreshing tropical essence with zero alcohol content—perfect for kids or non-drinkers.

Turn it into a frozen treat by blending all the ingredients with ice until smooth. Garnish with a paper umbrella, and suddenly it’s a party in a glass.

You can also try mixing up the juices—swap pineapple for mango nectar, or use white cranberry juice for a lighter, slightly sweeter take. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

The Malibu Bay Breeze is the ultimate “vacation in a glass,” and once you try it, you’ll see just how easy it is to adapt. Trust your taste buds and have fun with it—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this breezy classic.

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