How to Make a Sex on the Beach Cocktail

One of the first cocktails I remember trying was a simple vodka-and-juice drink my dad made at home. When I ordered my first drink at a bar, I discovered it was essentially a Sex on the Beach—bright, fruity, and easy to drink. This classic cocktail mixes vodka, orange juice, cranberry juice, and peach schnapps for a balanced, refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm evenings or casual gatherings.

What is a Sex on the Beach Cocktail?

A Sex on the Beach is a fruity, easy-to-make mixed drink that combines vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry juice. It’s bright in color and flavor—think citrus and sweet peach balanced by tart cranberry. Garnishes like an orange slice or a maraschino cherry add visual appeal and a touch of sweetness. While the name might raise eyebrows, the cocktail itself is approachable and widely enjoyed at home and at parties.

If you enjoy a thicker, frozen variation, try blending the same ingredients with ice for a slushie-style version that’s especially satisfying on hot days.

What Goes in a Sex on the Beach Drink?

This cocktail uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients. The overall profile is fruity and slightly sweet with an alcoholic backbone from the vodka. Here’s a clear list of what you’ll need for one serving:

• Orange juice
• Cranberry juice (regular or any variety you prefer)
• Vodka
• Peach schnapps
• Maraschino cherry or other fresh fruit for garnish
• Ice

How to Make a Sex on the Beach

Gather a cocktail shaker (or use a glass and stirring spoon), a tall glass for serving, and your garnishes. This recipe is quick: about five minutes from start to finish.

1. Fill a tall glass with ice and set aside a slice of orange or a cherry for garnish.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, peach schnapps, and orange juice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds to chill and combine.
3. Strain or pour the shaken mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
4. Top gently with cranberry juice so it layers slightly or stir to combine, depending on the look and balance you prefer.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. Serve immediately.

Pitcher / Large Batch

To serve a small crowd (about 4 servings), combine the following in a pitcher and stir with ice just before serving:

• 6 oz vodka
• 2 oz peach schnapps
• 6 oz orange juice
• 6 oz cranberry juice
• Ice and garnishes

Mix the vodka, schnapps, and orange juice first, then pour over ice in each glass and top with cranberry juice to preserve some layering and freshness.

Virgin (Non-Alcoholic) Version

For a non-alcoholic cocktail, omit the vodka and peach schnapps. Replace the schnapps with a splash of peach nectar or peach juice, and increase the orange and cranberry juices to taste. This yields a bright, refreshing mocktail that keeps the same fruity character.