Malibu Grapefruit Cooler Cocktail Recipe

I love mixing up simple drinks that feel refreshing without much fuss. The Malibu Grapefruit Cooler is definitely one of my go-to’s—it brings together sweet coconut rum and tart grapefruit juice for this crisp, balanced vibe.

Here’s how I whip up a tropical cocktail that’s light, bright, and honestly just fun to sip.

Whenever I want something that screams summer, this Malibu cocktail does the trick. It comes together quickly, no need for fancy gadgets, and the flavors stay clean—not heavy at all.

The citrus and coconut combo just nails it, whether I’m lounging outside or making drinks for friends.

Let me walk you through the steps, from what you’ll need to the easiest way to get it in your glass. I’ll toss in some tasting notes too, so you know what you’re getting into before that first sip.

Malibu Grapefruit Cooler Cocktail Recipe

What I like most about this drink is how the bright citrus flavors play off that smooth coconut rum. The mix of juices keeps things fresh, and you don’t need to be a pro bartender to get it right.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I use this to mix the juices and rum evenly.
• Jigger or measuring tool – Makes it way easier to pour the right amount.
• Bar spoon – I stir gently when I don’t want too much foam.
• Citrus juicer – Squeezing fresh lime or grapefruit is so much easier with one of these.
• Strainer – Helps keep ice and pulp out of the glass.
• Highball or tall glass – I always reach for a tall glass for this one.
• Ice – Cubed ice is my pick since it melts slower.

Honestly, keeping the tools basic just speeds things up. If I set everything out before I start, I save myself a headache later.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Malibu rum (coconut rum)
• 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz orange juice
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz grenadine
• Splash of lemon-lime soda
• Ice cubes

Fresh juice just hits different, doesn’t it? I try to use fresh lime and grapefruit juice whenever possible—they taste so much cleaner than anything from a bottle.

Grenadine gives a little sweetness and some color, which really balances out the tartness.

Instructions

• Fill the shaker halfway with ice.
• Pour in the Malibu rum, grapefruit juice, pineapple juice, orange juice, and lime juice.
• Shake well for about 10–15 seconds, just until it feels chilled.
• Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
• Slowly pour grenadine so it settles at the bottom.
• Add a splash of lemon-lime soda on top.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or grapefruit slice if you’re feeling fancy.

I shake the drink firmly, but I don’t overdo it—just enough to mix without watering things down. Pouring the grenadine last gives that cool layered look.

Notes

This cocktail really shines when you get the juices balanced. If I add too much grapefruit, it gets a little too sharp, but if I go heavy on the pineapple, it can turn out too sweet.

If I’m not in the mood for sweetness, I’ll use less grenadine or sometimes skip the soda altogether. Every once in a while, I’ll add a splash of cream of coconut for a creamier vibe, though that totally changes the texture.

Swapping cranberry juice for orange juice gives it a tart little twist, which I like now and then. I always stick with the Malibu rum and grapefruit juice as the base, though—that combo makes the drink what it is.

Tasting Notes

When I take the first sip, it hits me as light and crisp. That grapefruit juice gives everything a clean, slightly tart edge, which keeps the Malibu rum’s sweetness in check.

The coconut from the rum sneaks in gently. It doesn’t try too hard—it just adds this smooth, tropical vibe that kind of reminds me of a Malibu Bay Breeze, but with a sharper citrus pop.

The finish? Super refreshing, honestly. I get this mix of sweet, tangy, and a little bitterness from the grapefruit, so the drink never turns cloying.

I really like how the flavors stack up:

• Sweetness: mild coconut and rum
• Citrus: tart grapefruit
• Texture: light and smooth

It’s just easy to enjoy, especially on a warm day. The drink isn’t all that strong, and the balance means I can sip it slowly without feeling heavy or overwhelmed.