Sex on the Beach is a refreshing tropical cocktail that’s made with vodka, peach schnapps, and cranberry and orange juice. This classic cocktail has been around for decades and it’s the perfect thing to sip on beachside or to just cool down on a hot day.

Since the drink appeared in the 1980s, it’s become a cocktail icon with its easy-to-make fruity profile. While the origin of the drink isn’t known for sure, it’s thought that it came about from a Florida bartender trying to find a drink to promote peach schnapps, and since spring break and Florida beaches are so linked, the provocative name was born.

Related: Fuzzy Navel, French 75, Peach Bellini (Only 3 Ingredients!), Mimosa, Cranberry Spritz

What’s the best vodka to use for Sex on the Beach?

While the choice of vodka is up to you and your pocketbook, it’s worth it to skip the lowest level vodkas and opt for something smoother like Tito’s, Absolut, Three Olives, or Skyy. 

Ingredients

• Vodka: Vodka is a nice choice for the base of this drink as it has a more neutral flavor and allows the other fruity flavors to shine.
• Peach Schnapps: While it doesn’t add a ton of alcohol factor to the drink, this touch of peach adds a special sweetness to the drink.
• Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice adds a slight tartness to the drink and the red color makes the pretty color gradation. 
• Orange Juice: While you can use store bought juice, try adding fresh-squeezed orange juice for an extra fresh flavor.

Sex on the Beach cocktails are traditionally served in a hurricane glass, but you can also use a tall tumbler as well.

Directions

Fill your glass with ice and add your orange juice, peach schnapps, and vodka. Stir gently to combine.

Add your cranberry juice and either stir to combine or leave the layers visible.

Garnish with cherries or orange wedges and enjoy!

Tips for Making

• If you find that your cranberry juice isn’t sinking to the bottom of your drink and you really want a layered look, add some grenadine to your cranberry juice and then pour. Since the grenadine is heavy, it will help pull it to the bottom and add a delicious cherry flavor as well. 
• Add some peach juice for a heavier peach flavor without adding more alcohol.
• Feel free to try a flavored vodka, like pineapple or coconut, to add another tropical layer to the drink.

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