Sex On The Beach Cocktail Recipe

There is something unapologetically fun about this cocktail. It is colorful, a little retro, and instantly puts people in a relaxed mood without trying too hard.

I started making this at home on a whim one summer evening, and it quickly became one of those drinks friends started requesting by name. Not because it is fancy, but because it tastes genuinely good.

The balance is what makes it work. You get fruitiness, a bit of citrus brightness, and just enough tartness to keep it from feeling sugary.

And the best part? You do not need any complicated bar tools or hard-to-find ingredients. This is the kind of drink you can throw together in minutes and still feel proud serving.

Ingredients Needed for the Recipe

• Ice - Keeps the drink cold and slightly dilutes it as you sip, which helps mellow the sweetness.
• Vodka - The clean base spirit that lets all the fruit flavors shine without competing.
• Peach schnapps - Adds sweetness and that signature juicy peach aroma that defines the cocktail.
• Orange juice - Brings freshness and citrus brightness that ties everything together.
• Cranberry juice - Adds a tart contrast and gives the drink its beautiful layered color.
• Orange wedge - A fresh garnish that enhances the citrus notes while making the glass look inviting.
• Maraschino cherries - A playful finishing touch that adds a pop of sweetness.

Choosing the Right Glass and Ice

You do not need anything overly specific, but a tall glass really shows off the color gradient. A highball or hurricane-style glass works beautifully and feels classic.

I like using plenty of ice rather than a few cubes. More ice keeps the drink cold without watering it down too quickly, which makes a noticeable difference.

If you have time, chilling the glass in the freezer for about 15 minutes is a small step that makes the cocktail feel extra refreshing. It is one of those little tricks that feels professional without any effort.

How to make ?

Step 1 - Fill the Glass with Ice

Start by filling your glass almost to the top with ice. This sets the foundation for a properly chilled drink and keeps everything crisp.

I like to do this first so the glass gets cold while I gather the rest of the ingredients. It makes the final result taste more refreshing.

Step 2 - Add the Vodka

Pour the vodka directly over the ice. Because vodka is neutral, it carries the fruit flavors without overpowering them.

Use a vodka you enjoy drinking, but it does not have to be top shelf. Smooth and simple works perfectly here.

Step 3 - Add the Peach Schnapps

Next goes the peach schnapps, which gives the cocktail its signature sweetness and aroma. This is where that unmistakable fruity character starts to build.

The peach note should feel present but not overwhelming. It blends with the juices rather than standing alone.

Step 4 - Pour in the Orange Juice

Add the orange juice and gently stir to combine with the spirits. Stirring instead of shaking keeps the flavors vibrant and prevents over-dilution.

You will notice the color becoming a warm golden orange at this stage. That is your base layer.

Step 5 - Slowly Add the Cranberry Juice

Pour the cranberry juice slowly over the mixture. This helps create that soft layered look that makes the drink so visually appealing.

There is no need to stir again. Let the juices settle naturally so you get that subtle ombre effect.

Step 6 - Garnish and Serve

Finish with an orange wedge and a couple of maraschino cherries. These small touches make the drink feel festive and complete.

Serve immediately while it is cold, bright, and at its most refreshing.

Tips

• Use pulp-free orange juice if you want a smoother texture, though pulp lovers can absolutely keep it.
• Do not shake this cocktail unless you want a more diluted version. Stirring keeps the flavors clean.
• Pour the cranberry juice slowly to maintain the layered look.
• Taste your juices before mixing since their sweetness levels can vary.
• Fill the glass generously with ice to control dilution.
• If making multiple drinks, prep the glasses with ice first to speed things up.
• A simple bar spoon helps with gentle stirring, but any long spoon works fine.
• Chill your ingredients ahead of time if you want an extra-cold cocktail.

Fun Variations to Try

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this recipe is how easy it is to tweak. You can adjust it depending on what you have in the fridge without losing its personality.

For a more tropical twist, swap the orange juice for pineapple juice. It adds a slightly tangier flavor that leans into vacation-mode vibes.

If you want the drink less sweet, try using peach brandy instead of schnapps. It still delivers peach flavor but with a drier finish.

Flavored vodkas can also be fun to experiment with. A citrus or peach-infused vodka adds another subtle layer without complicating things.

To make a lighter version, increase the juice slightly and reduce the alcohol just a bit. The cocktail stays flavorful while feeling more session-friendly.

Serving Ideas

This cocktail shines in casual settings. Think backyard gatherings, relaxed dinners, or even a quiet evening when you want something cheerful but not fussy.

I like serving it alongside simple snacks like salted nuts, grilled shrimp, or fresh fruit. The drink pairs well with foods that are light and not overly rich.

It is also a great welcome drink when friends come over. You can assemble it quickly without stepping away from the conversation for long.

If you are hosting, set out garnish options so guests can customize their glasses. It becomes interactive, which always makes things feel more relaxed.