Malibu Bay Breeze
A tropical 80s highball blending coconut rum, cranberry, and pineapple.
The Malibu Bay Breeze (often simply called a Bay Breeze when ordered at resorts) modifies the vodka classic by swapping the neutral spirit for coconut rum. This substitution amplifies the tropical profile, bridging the gap between a crisp highball and a fruit punch. The coconut flavor softens the tartness of the cranberry, while the pineapple reinforces the island aesthetic. It is perhaps the most ubiquitous coconut rum drink in existence, defining the flavor of accessible tropical drinking.
Ingredients
- • 2 oz coconut rum
- • 2 oz cranberry juice
- • 2 oz pineapple juice
Did you know?
“While the vodka Bay Breeze dates to the mid-century, the coconut variation surged in popularity following Malibu's UK launch in 1980 and US debut in 1982.”
Bartender's Note
Adjust the ratio of cranberry to pineapple to control the sweetness; more cranberry yields a drier, tarter drink.
How to make the Malibu Bay Breeze
- 1Fill a highball glass with ice
- 2Add coconut rum
- 3Top with equal parts cranberry and pineapple juice
- 4Stir gently to combine
- 5Garnish with a lime wedge
