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When you picture yourself relaxing in Hawaii, there is a good chance a tropical drink is somewhere in the scene. A cool cocktail beside the ocean, sunset colors over the water and nowhere important to be for the next few hours is a pretty good way to settle into island time.
Hawaii restaurants, resort bars, luaus and cruises serve plenty of tropical drinks, and recipes often vary from one place to another. Fresh pineapple, passion fruit, citrus, coconut and locally produced spirits frequently find their way into island-inspired cocktails.
Here are a few favorites you may come across during your trip:
Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is one of the drinks most closely associated with a Hawaii vacation. Traditionally a rum-based cocktail with citrus and almond flavors, Hawaii versions often add tropical fruit juices and colorful garnishes. Every bartender seems to have a slightly different recipe, which gives you a perfectly reasonable excuse to compare a few.
Blue Hawaiian
The bright blue color makes this cocktail hard to miss. A Blue Hawaiian typically combines rum, pineapple and blue curaçao, sometimes with coconut or other tropical flavors. It is sweet, colorful and especially popular around resort pools and beachside bars.
Pina Colada
If you prefer frozen drinks, the Pina Colada is a classic choice. Rum, pineapple and coconut create a creamy tropical combination that fits particularly well with a warm afternoon near the beach.
Local Beer
Hawaii also has a growing selection of locally brewed beer. A cold island beer with fresh poke, grilled fish or another local dish can be just as satisfying as a tropical cocktail, especially after a day at the beach or sightseeing.
Tropical drinks are also part of many evening experiences around the islands. If sunset on the water sounds better than staying at the hotel bar, you can compare Hawaii dinner cruises that combine ocean views, dinner and drinks with an evening sail.
Be sure to ask your bartender about house specialties and locally inspired drinks. You will find plenty of creative options beyond the familiar classics. Enjoy the scenery, take your time and drink responsibly.