The Malibu Sunset Cocktail is a beautiful, tropical drink that captures the look of a summer sunset in a glass. Made with coconut rum, pineapple and orange juice, and finished with a drizzle of grenadine, it’s a visually striking and deliciously fruity cocktail I always love serving at warm-weather gatherings.

Malibu Sunset Cocktail

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to put this drink together, yet it looks so impressive with its layered colors. The mix of coconut rum with tangy juices and sweet grenadine is refreshing and smooth, perfect for sipping poolside or at a party. I also appreciate that I can make it in just a few minutes with no special tools required.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ice cubes
pineapple-orange juice blend (or use pineapple and orange juices separately)
Malibu coconut rum
grenadine
maraschino cherries for garnish
pineapple and/or orange slices for garnish

directions

Fill a tall glass with ice.
Pour in the pineapple-orange juice and coconut rum, then give it a gentle stir.
Slowly drizzle grenadine down the inside of the glass so it sinks and forms a red layer at the bottom—don’t stir.
Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a slice of pineapple or orange. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 2 minutes
Total time: 2 minutes

Variations

I sometimes switch up the flavor by using a splash of cranberry juice in place of grenadine for a more tart version. If I want a frozen drink, I blend all the ingredients with crushed ice. For a twist, I’ve swapped coconut rum with pineapple rum or added a bit of dark rum for more depth. This cocktail is also easy to turn into a mocktail—just skip the alcohol and enjoy the tropical taste.

storage/reheating

This drink is best served fresh. If I’m preparing for a group, I pre-mix the juices and rum and keep the mixture chilled. I add ice, grenadine, and garnish just before serving to maintain the visual layers and flavor.

FAQs

How do I keep the grenadine from mixing?

I always pour the grenadine slowly down the inside of the glass after the other ingredients. Since it’s denser, it naturally settles at the bottom to create the sunset effect. I avoid stirring after adding it.

Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

Yes, I simply replace the rum with extra juice or a splash of coconut water. It keeps the tropical flavor and the layered appearance.

What type of glass works best?

I usually use a highball or any tall glass. The height really helps show off the sunset effect.

How do I make it for a group?

I mix a larger batch of the juices and rum ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, I pour it over ice in individual glasses, then add the grenadine and garnishes.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Definitely. If I want it less sweet, I use less grenadine or opt for juices with no added sugar. A splash of soda water also helps cut through the sweetness.

Conclusion

The Malibu Sunset Cocktail is one of my favorite drinks for its tropical flavor, easy preparation, and stunning presentation. Whether I’m enjoying a quiet evening on the patio or hosting a party, this cocktail always brings a splash of sunshine and a taste of the tropics to my day.