7 Traditional Caribbean Cocktails to Try on Your Next Adventure

When one thinks of the Caribbean, white sandy beaches, turquoise seas, and delicious tropical drinks with those little umbrellas come to mind. However, no island in the Caribbean is alike, and the same idea goes for their signature cocktails.

Crafted with local ingredients and spirits, these libations are not only refreshing but also highlight the rich history and culture of these islands. Therefore, here are seven traditional Caribbean cocktails that will have you drinking like a local on your next Caribbean adventure.

1. Piña Colada, Puerto Rico

The national drink of Puerto Rico since 1978, the Piña Colada is famous thanks to the song “Escape” by Rupert Holmes. While its origins are shrouded in mystery, some claim it was created at the Caribe Hilton in 1954.

Piña Colada Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of Caribe Hilton)

• 2 oz rum
• 1 oz cream of coconut
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 6 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup crushed ice

Blend the rum, cream of coconut, heavy cream, and pineapple juice. Add ice and mix for 15 seconds. Serve in a 12-ounce glass garnished with fresh pineapple and a cherry.

2. Gully Wash, Bahamas

Gully Wash is an unofficial drink of the Bahamas, typically served at house parties, BBQs, and local bars. It combines coconut water, sweetened condensed milk, and gin, which is unusual for an island known for its rum. This drink is popular among locals due to its inexpensive and easy-to-make ingredients.

Gully Wash Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of Deneki Outdoors)

• 1 gallon of fresh coconut water
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup coconut flavored rum
• 1 cup gin
• 2 cans condensed milk

Mix all ingredients well and serve chilled.

3. Mama Juana, Dominican Republic

Mama Juana is a medicinal elixir from the Dominican Republic, made by combining rum, red wine, and honey, soaked with tree bark and herbs. Originally created in the 1950s, this drink is often sold as an herbal remedy and aphrodisiac.

Mama Juana Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of Dame Cacao)

• A handful of seasoned Mama Juana bark
• 16 oz dark rum (preferably Dominican)
• 8.5 oz red wine
• 4-10 tsp of honey

Combine the ingredients in a jar and store for several days.

4. Antiguan Smile, Antigua

The Antiguan Smile is a fruity tropical drink featuring two local ingredients: Cavalier Rum from the Antigua Distillery and black pineapples. Be cautious, as this cocktail packs a punch.

Antiguan Smile Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of beach.com)

• 2 oz of rum (Cavalier if possible)
• 1 oz of crème de banana
• 4 oz of pineapple juice

Shake all ingredients together, pour over ice, and garnish with a slice of pineapple.

5. Aruba Ariba, Aruba

Created by bartender Juan “Jocky” Tromp at the Hilton Aruba in 1963, the Aruba Ariba features Coecoei, a sweet red liquor made from agave, mixed with rum and cane sugar. This specialty spirit is exclusively found on the island.

Aruba Ariba Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of visitaruba.com)

• 1/2 oz vodka
• 1/2 oz 151 rum (preferably Ron Rico from Aruba)
• 1/8 oz cocoa
• 1/8 oz crème de banana
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

Pour all ingredients into a tall glass, stir slightly, add a splash of grenadine, and top with Grand Marnier. Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry.

6. Ti Punch, Martinique

Ti Punch, Martinique’s national cocktail, is a straightforward drink made with just three key components. It is short for “little punch” and can only be made with Rhum Agricole, the island’s native spirit. This potent drink is best enjoyed before a meal.

Ti Punch Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of PUNCH)

• 2 oz Rhum Agricole (light or dark)
• 1 bar spoon cane syrup
• 1 wedge lime
• Garnish: lime peel coin

In a rocks glass, add a splash of cane syrup and a squeeze of lime. Add Rhum Agricole and a few ice cubes. Stir gently and garnish with a lime coin.

7. Cuba Libre, Cuba

More than just a rum and coke, Cuba Libre’s origin is tied to the United States’ involvement during the Spanish–American War, associated with helping Cuba gain its independence from Spain. According to legend, this drink is named after the slogan of the Cuban independence movement, “Cuba Libre” (Free Cuba).

Cuba Libre Recipe

(Recipe courtesy of Bacardi)

• 2 oz. Bacardi rum
• 2 lime wedges
• Coca-Cola

Fill a highball glass with ice, squeeze the limes into the glass, and add them as well. Top with rum and chilled cola, stirring gently.