There's something irresistibly tropical about a Malibu Bay Breeze. One sip, and you’re whisked away to a breezy beach with the scent of coconut in the air, the sweetness of pineapple on your tongue, and the soft hum of waves in the background.

I first discovered this vibrant cocktail during a summer beach trip with friends, and it quickly became our go-to drink. It's incredibly easy to make, refreshingly fruity, and perfect for entertaining — whether you're poolside or just dreaming of warmer weather.

This cocktail checks every box: quick to mix, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why this drink deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You'll Love This Malibu Bay Breeze

Say hello to your new favorite tropical cocktail. The Malibu Bay Breeze isn’t just gorgeous to look at — it’s effortlessly delicious, too.

First and foremost, it’s unbelievably easy. With only three main ingredients, this drink takes less than two minutes to throw together. No shaking, no muddling, no fancy tools required.

It’s also incredibly refreshing. The combination of coconut rum, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice creates the perfect balance of creamy, tart, and sweet — a flavor profile that’s light yet flavorful.

Looking for something budget-friendly? You’re in luck. With Malibu and common juices from your fridge or grocery store, you can whip up a party's worth of cocktails for the price of a single bar drink.

Lastly, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, barbecue, or casual get-together, this cocktail fits the vibe. Want it stronger or less sweet? Adjust to your heart’s content.

Now that you’re craving one, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make it.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of the Malibu Bay Breeze lies in its simplicity — just three key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the drink’s signature flavor and tropical charm.

Malibu Coconut Rum is the heart of this cocktail. Its smooth coconut flavor adds an unmistakable beachy vibe that instantly transforms this drink into a tropical treat. While you could substitute with another coconut rum, Malibu’s slightly sweet, mellow taste is hard to beat.

Pineapple juice brings the tropical punch. Its bright, citrusy sweetness complements the coconut rum beautifully. I recommend using a high-quality, 100% pineapple juice for the best flavor, though canned or bottled varieties will also work just fine.

Cranberry juice is the final touch that gives the drink its stunning pink hue and a tangy balance to the sweetness. Opt for a cranberry juice cocktail if you like it sweeter, or go for unsweetened juice if you prefer a more tart finish.

As for equipment, all you need is a tall glass (a highball or hurricane glass works beautifully), some ice, and a spoon or straw to give it a quick stir. No cocktail shaker required!

How To Make This Malibu Bay Breeze

Making a Malibu Bay Breeze couldn’t be simpler. You don’t need to be a seasoned mixologist to nail this one.

Start by filling a tall glass with ice. Crushed or cubed ice both work here — just make sure your glass is nice and full, as this helps keep the drink cold without too much dilution.

Next, pour in 1½ ounces of Malibu Coconut Rum directly over the ice. This forms the smooth and flavorful base of the cocktail.

Then, add 3 ounces of pineapple juice. As you pour, you’ll notice the golden hue blending with the rum to create a light, tropical color.

Slowly top it off with 3 ounces of cranberry juice. This is where the magic happens — the cranberry juice will float on top for a gorgeous layered effect. For an ombré finish, pour the cranberry juice gently over the back of a spoon.

Give the drink a gentle stir if you prefer a blended look, or leave it layered for presentation. Garnish with a lime wedge, a slice of pineapple, or a maraschino cherry if you’re feeling festive.

From start to finish, this drink takes less than five minutes. You’ll be sipping and smiling before you know it.

Storage Options

Because the Malibu Bay Breeze is a single-serve, freshly mixed drink, it’s best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

If you're prepping for a party, you can premix the rum and juices (in the right ratio) in a pitcher and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Be sure to stir well before serving and pour over fresh ice for best results.

Avoid adding ice to the pitcher ahead of time, as it will water down the flavor. Keep the pitcher chilled instead, and allow guests to add their own ice as they serve.

Leftovers? Unlikely. But if you do have some, cover and refrigerate. It’s still safe to drink within a day, though the taste and presentation won’t be as crisp.

To recreate the layered look, always add the cranberry juice last just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

The Malibu Bay Breeze is wonderfully flexible, which makes it ideal for experimentation and personal twists.

For a lighter version, use coconut water instead of coconut rum for a mocktail that still feels tropical. Or use half Malibu and half soda water to cut the alcohol without sacrificing the coconut flavor.

Switch up the juice ratios to suit your taste. Love tart? Add more cranberry. Want it sweeter? Up the pineapple juice. You can also try mango or orange juice for a fun variation.

Want to make it stronger? Add a splash of vodka along with the Malibu. It won’t change the flavor much, but it will definitely up the potency.

Feeling fancy? Turn it into a frozen cocktail by blending all the ingredients with a cup of ice until slushy. Serve with a straw and a wedge of lime for the ultimate summer treat.

No matter how you mix it, the Malibu Bay Breeze offers a perfect base for creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment — you might just find your signature version.