Over the years, the Caribbean has provided many cocktail lovers and bartenders alike with numerous classic staples. From Mexican-based tequila cocktails to colorful Curacao masterpieces, the root of rum cocktails is firmly planted in Caribbean culture. Nowadays, cocktail creation has reached almost peak popularity with everyone looking to try something new and exciting.

If you’re new to Caribbean cocktails or are looking for new inspiration to experiment with, look no further. We’ve compiled a fresh list of cocktail recipes to try.

Let’s Get Started

All Caribbean cocktails have some needed preparation. Particularly if you’re aiming to ace these specialty drinks, you’re going to want to do some groundwork before you start. Start by  gathering all the alcoholic ingredients you need. For Caribbean cocktails, you’ll want the best of the best. Whether it’s a specific kind of rum straight from a particular country or a unique tequila, this can be the small variable that makes a huge difference. When purchasing, look into online alcohol delivery. Some can offer you specialty alcohol brands you may not be able to find in stores near you. Check to see what’s available in your area!

Next, gather your garnishes. Many Caribbean drinks require sweet fruits like oranges, pineapples and more. Make sure you have more than the base amount needed so you can munch while you mix.

Last but not least, be sure to have your bartending equipment handy! Cocktail shakers will be needed for most of these recipes so be sure to have them ready to go. Plus, ice makers, fancy glasses, and any other alcohol gadgets can help you out as you try out these new drinks

1. Pina Colada (Puerto Rico)

For the most classic of Caribbean cocktails, we had to start off with the luxurious Pina Colada. Originating in Puerto Rico over 60 years ago, this tasty rum-based coconut concoction is synonymous with a vacation in paradise. Between the delicious tropical and fruity flavors, and the ease in throwing the drink together, nothing says relaxation like a homemade pina colada.

Check out our recipe here to get started.

2. Dark “N” Stormy (Bermuda)

Born and raised in the Bermuda area, the Dark “N” Stormy is a staple rum cocktail for those who really love a bit of spice. It is said that due to the area’s abundance of rum and sailors, this drink was a favorite among many locals for quite some time. It still is to this day. Similar to an American rum and coke recipe, a Dark “N” Stormy incorporates rum and ginger beer. Adding the two together with some lime juice to finish it off creates a refreshing citrusy flavor.

Full recipe here.

3. Rum Punch (Saint Lucia)

This recipe originates in one of the most beautiful countries in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia’s. The island’s colorful and natural terrain lends itself perfectly to a sweet and colorful cocktail, like this Rum Punch. Again made with a base of rum, this punch concoction uses some of Saint Lucia’s favorite fruits like oranges, pineapples, and limes to give a sweet and refreshing kick. If you’re looking for the perfect combo of taste and appearance, this is the drink for you!

Find step-by-step instructions here.

4. Blue Lagoon (Curacao)

If you’ve ever set foot on a Caribbean island, you’re probably familiar with the crystal blue ocean water that surrounds as far as the eye can see. With this inspiration in mind, we introduce: the Blue Lagoon. Unsurprisingly, this concoction from Curacao incorporates Blue Curacao liqueur. And while you may think it would give a standard “blue drink” flavor, this recipe is focused instead on a lemonade taste. If you’re looking for something sweet for your next pool party or even a night at home, give this colorful drink a shot.

Find the full drink here!

5. Classic Margarita (Mexico)

Although Mexico isn’t always considered part of the Caribbean, we would be remiss if we omitted the classic Mexican margarita. This drink has risen to extreme popularity since its initial introduction in 1942. It consists of classic, pure tequila mixed with liqueur and juice. You can’t go wrong with a margarita that not only tastes good, but also looks good! 

See our recipe here.

6. Painkiller (British Virgin Islands)

This drink derives from the British Virgin Islands, a stretch of islands in the Caribbean known for its historical connection to England. The “painkiller” name comes from local lore claiming that a few glasses will make you forget your all your pain. Locals and vacationers of the area enjoy it as they swim back and forth between their boats and beach-side bars, a tradition you can still take part in today.

What makes this drink unique is the usage of darker rum rather than lighter variations of rum that are recommended for the previous concoctions. This is a nice mix-up if you’re a fan of dark rum!

Full recipe here.

7. Aruba Aribe (Aruba)

Using Coecoei, a local Aruban liquor, as a base, this drink is a unique rum and vodka combination that puts it in a class of its own. It can be combined with any of your favorite fruit juices like pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and orange juice. This rich, red cocktail is a yummy, fruity option that you should consider trying!

If you’re able to acquire Aruba specialty liquors, this recipe should be a no-brainer!

Check out the full recipe on the official Visit Aruba blog!

Whether you’re from the Caribbean and want to have a taste of home this holiday season, or you simply have a love of tropical foods and want to include them in your holiday menu, these delicious Caribbean holiday desserts are sure to satisfy. This list of carefully selected traditional recipes includes cakes, puddings, dessert bread, and even ice cream. When it’s time to eat, just remember to save some room for dessert 😉

1. Tembleque (Puerto Rican Coconut Pudding)

Tembleque is a sweet and mild coconut dessert from Puerto Rico resembling pudding or gelatin. The name literally translates to “jiggle” and when you try it you’ll see why! This delicious dessert only requires a handful of ingredients and about 5 minutes of active cooking time. Try this authentic tembleque recipe.

2. Grenadian Nutmeg Ice Cream

Flavorful and delightfully aromatic nutmeg is showcased in velvety nutmeg ice cream from the “spice isle”, Grenada. For the best flavor, use freshly ground nutmeg. Try this simple nutmeg ice cream recipe, no ice cream machine required.

3. Cake de Ron (Cuban Rum Cake)

Cuba’s version of rum cake, cake de ron, is different from other rum cakes commonly made throughout the Caribbean. You won’t find any rum-soaked fruits in this super moist Bundt cake, but with lemon zest, banana liquor, and of course plenty of nice dark rum, the flavors are complex and delicious. Try this traditional cake de ron recipe.

4. Jamaican Black Cake (Christmas Fruit Cake)

Jamaican black cake, or christmas pudding, is a spiced cake made with a combination of raisins, cherries, prunes, and other fruits. This classic holiday dessert has endless variations, and surely no two households make it exactly the same way. Most recipes call for soaking the dried fruits in wine and/or rum for up to a year before baking. Try this classic Jamaican black cake recipe.