The Blue Lagoon Cocktail

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

You don’t need it to be summer to enjoy this thirst-quenching blue drink. The Blue Lagoon Cocktail is a neon beacon of tropical refreshment ready to be sipped poolside or at your next 80s-themed bash.

There are a few variations when it comes to making this cocktail, but the one I’m sharing with you is my favorite as it is easy to make and amazingly refreshing.

When you hear the term “Blue Lagoon” You may recall the 1980s film of the same name starring a young Brook Shields running around on a deserted island half naked.

Well, this drink certainly could have been named after that movie, as I’m sure you can imagine sipping one of these on a deserted island overlooking a crystal blue lagoon nestled between palm trees…right?

Nevertheless, it became a popular choice at local watering holes after the movie came out. Of course, anything blue or neon colored was already popular in the 1980s and simple drinks built directly into the glass were a bartenders best friend in those days.

Most information flying around on the internet ties this drink to being invented in the 70s in a bar in Paris. But, regardless of who invented it or when it was concocted, it is a delight to the taste buds to sip a Blue Lagoon Cocktail. Balancing between sweet and tart, this tropical cocktail is the perfect libation for the dog days of summer or to pull you out of those winter blues that like to set in around January.

Ingredients needed for a Blue Lagoon cocktail:

• Vodka. Pick your favorite.
• Blue Curaçao
• Lemon Juice. The freshly squeezed variety. If you must use a bottles variety I recommend Santa Cruz lemon juice as it is not from concentrate and organic.
• Simple Syrup. Recipe Below.

How to make a Blue Lagoon cocktail:

1. Pour your measured ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously.
3. Pour unstrained into a hurricane glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon wheel or wedge and a bright red maraschino cherry.
5. Enjoy!

How to make Simple Syrup:

1. Add equal parts water and sugar to a small saucepan. I typically do 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar.
2. Heat the mixture and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Let it cool before mixing it into your drinks.

Can I make this with Lemonade?

Yes, most recipes actually call for lemonade and this would have been how it was built in most bars because it’s easy…but trust me it tastes so much better with the fresh lemon juice and simple syrup!

What if I don’t have Blue Curaçao?

You can use standard Triple Sec or Grand Marnier, which is the same thing, but without the blue dye in it. Then add some of your own blue food coloring until you get the right shade of blue.

Can this be made non-alcoholic?

Absolutely!

Vodka Substitute: Water…or for a bubbly version sub the vodka for Sprite or Seven Up.

Blue Curaçao Substitute: use a non-alcoholic Blue Curaçao syrup like Master of Mixes Blue Curaçao. It’s affordable and tastes pretty good.

For an easy kids version, you can also mix lemonade with the Blue Curaçao syrup.

Other variations to try:

1. This drink is equally good with fresh squeezed lime juice.
2. You can also blend this drink in a blender for a frozen concoction even Jimmy Buffet would approve of.

What are some other iconic ‘80s cocktails to try?

• Harvey Wallbanger. Vodka, OJ, and Galliano. Delightful.
• Alabama Slammer. Amaretto, Sloe Gin, Southern Comfort and OJ. You will feel slammed.
• Singapore Sling. Gin, Cherry Brandy, Pineapple Juice, Grenadine and several other ingredients. If you can manage to find them all it’s worth the effort.
• Woo Woo. Vodka, Peach Schnapps, Cranberry Juice. Woo Woo indeed.
• Amaretto Sour. Amaretto, Bourbon, lemon juice and simple syrup. A must try if you are a bourbon lover.

What type of glass should I use?

Traditionally this would go in a hurricane glass. I found this hurricane glass set to be very well made and a good size. But in a pinch you can also use a rocks glass or high-ball glass. Just make sure it is clear glass so you can see that electric blue color!

What garnish should be used?

The traditional garnish is a lemon wheel and maraschino cherry, but a solo cherry or an orange wheel will work too. Anything brightly colored will help to accentuate this fun cocktail. This also makes a great 4^th of July drink when garnished with cherries and a red and white striped paper straw.

More mouth-watering libations:

• Creamy Root Beer Cocktail
• Spiced Pomegranate Rum Sour
• Cranberry Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
• Bee’s Knees Cocktail
• The High Score Sips Pac-Man Cocktail