Coconut Water Paloma Cocktail Recipe

I’m always looking for new spins on classic cocktails, and honestly, the Paloma is just hard to beat. A Coconut Water Paloma is light, bright, and has that perfect blend of coconut water with the zing of grapefruit and lime.

It’s a super simple way to give the classic Paloma a little extra fun—and hey, it feels more hydrating too.

If you’re into cocktails that are easy to make, taste fresh, and have a bit of a tropical vibe (without being sugary), this one’s worth a try. I mean, who doesn’t want to impress their friends with something that looks and tastes this good?

Coconut Water Paloma Cocktail Recipe

What I really enjoy about this Coconut Water Paloma is how the tart grapefruit and sweet coconut water balance out, especially with that crisp tequila edge.

You don’t need any fancy gadgets, either. The mix is straightforward and honestly, it just feels like something you’d want to sip on a sunny afternoon.

Equipment

• Rocks glass: My go-to for Palomas—looks good, feels right in your hand.
• Jigger: Makes measuring a breeze, and I’m less likely to mess up the ratios.
• Bar spoon: For stirring it all together (nothing complicated).
• Citrus juicer or reamer: I squeeze every last drop from my limes and grapefruit.
• Cocktail shaker (optional): On days I want it extra cold and a bit frothy, I’ll give it a shake.
• Small plate: Perfect for rimming with salt if I’m feeling fancy.
• Ice: Gotta have it—keeps things cool.

Ingredients

• 2 oz blanco tequila
• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 oz coconut water (unsweetened)
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz agave syrup (or less, if you prefer)
• 2 oz grapefruit soda (Jarritos, Fresca, Squirt—whatever you like)
• Salt (for the rim, totally optional)
• Grapefruit wedge or lime wheel (garnish)
• Ice cubes

Instructions

• Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your rocks glass, then dip it in salt if you want that salty kick.
• Fill the glass all the way with ice cubes.
• Grab your jigger and pour in tequila, grapefruit juice, coconut water, lime juice, and agave syrup.
• Stir it up with your bar spoon until everything’s mixed.
• Top with grapefruit soda and give it a gentle stir.
• Add a wedge of grapefruit or a lime wheel for garnish—looks great, tastes even better.
• Drink up while it’s cold.

Notes

Honestly, fresh lime juice is a game changer—bottled stuff just doesn’t cut it for me. If I want it less sweet, I’ll use less agave or go for a drier grapefruit soda.

Blanco tequila is my favorite for a clean, crisp base, but sometimes I’ll use reposado if I’m in the mood for something a little warmer. Want more coconut flavor? Just splash in a bit more coconut water and dial back the soda.

Grapefruit sodas can be wildly different—some are super sweet, some more tart. I usually taste and tweak as I go. If someone wants a lighter drink, I’ll just add more soda or coconut water.

And if I’m feeling a little wild, I’ll throw in a sprig of mint or a pinch of sea salt on top. It’s surprisingly good with all that citrus and coconut.

Tasting Notes

Honestly, the first thing I notice when I sip the Coconut Water Paloma is just how light and refreshing it is. There’s this soft sweetness from the coconut water, and a little tropical vibe that makes it stand out compared to your usual Paloma.

The grapefruit juice brings a gentle tang, but it doesn’t punch you in the face or anything. I actually think the citrus balances out the mellow coconut really well, so every sip feels smooth and, I don’t know, just kind of satisfying.

It’s not a strong cocktail, which I appreciate—sometimes you just want something easygoing. That salt rim? It somehow makes the coconut and lime flavors pop even more.

Here’s what jumps out at me most:

• Sweetness from coconut water
• Tartness from grapefruit juice
• Fresh lime brightness
• Slight saltiness from the rim

If I go with soda water, the drink gets this light fizz that’s honestly pretty fun. The whole thing feels crisp and cool—definitely the kind of drink I’d reach for on a warm day, or just when I’m craving something a little tropical but not over-the-top.