Tropical Paloma With Pineapple Juice Cocktail Recipe

When I’m craving something bright and refreshing, I reach for a Tropical Paloma with pineapple juice. It’s my favorite twist on the classic Paloma—just a splash of pineapple, and suddenly it’s got this mellow tropical vibe without tipping into syrupy territory.

You get tequila, grapefruit soda, and pineapple juice swirling together, and honestly, it’s like a tiny vacation in a glass.

I love how the pineapple juice softens that sharp grapefruit bite, but the drink still keeps its crisp edge. It kind of reminds me of a lighter, more citrusy tequila sunrise—definitely less sugary.

The sweet, tangy, and fizzy mix just works, especially on a warm afternoon or hanging out with friends in the evening.

You only need a handful of ingredients and some basic bar tools. After you try this, I bet it’ll sneak into your summer rotation.

Tropical Paloma With Pineapple Juice Cocktail Recipe

I swear, the classic paloma just gets better with a splash of pineapple juice. Tequila, grapefruit soda, and fresh lime come together for something crisp and tropical that’s easy to whip up and even easier to sip on a hot day.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – helps mix and chill everything fast.
• Jigger or measuring cup – so you don’t accidentally overpour.
• Citrus juicer – fresh juice makes a big difference.
• Bar spoon – for a gentle stir.
• Strainer – keeps out pulp and stray ice.
• Highball or Collins glass – classic for a paloma.
• Ice cubes – keeps it cold, obviously.
• Small plate and salt – if you’re into a salted rim.
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping garnishes.

I like to keep these tools within arm’s reach so I’m not scrambling mid-cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
• 2 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 3 oz grapefruit soda (or sparkling grapefruit juice)
• ½ oz simple syrup (totally optional)
• Ice cubes
• Salt (for rim, if you want)
• Grapefruit wedge or pineapple slice for garnish

Fresh pineapple and lime juice really make the flavors pop. The grapefruit soda brings the fizz and balances everything out.

If you like it sweeter, just add a touch more syrup—no judgment.

Instructions

• Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip in salt if you want that salty kick.
• Fill the glass halfway with ice.
• Toss tequila, pineapple juice, and lime juice into a shaker.
• Add ice, then shake it up for about 10 seconds.
• Strain right into your prepared glass.
• Top with grapefruit soda and give it a gentle stir.
• Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit or pineapple slice.

I always sneak a quick taste before serving—sometimes it needs a splash more soda or lime, depending on my mood.

Notes

Blanco tequila brings a clean, crisp flavor, while reposado gives you a little hint of oak.

Chill your glass ahead of time if you can—it keeps things colder, longer. No grapefruit soda? No problem—just mix grapefruit juice and club soda together.

If you want to lighten things up, drop the tequila to 1½ oz and add more soda. Sometimes I’ll freeze pineapple chunks and use them as ice cubes—no watery drinks, just extra flavor.

Tasting Notes

Right away, I catch this bright citrus aroma—almost like the grapefruit soda jumps out first. There’s that crisp scent, but then the pineapple juice rolls in and kind of mellows everything out, taking the edge off. It smells fresh, like a sunny afternoon.

When I take a sip, I pick up on the tart grapefruit and sweet pineapple right away, plus just a touch of tequila in the background. Somehow, the flavors manage to play nicely together; nothing really takes over. The drink feels smooth, honestly pretty refreshing.

The texture? It’s light, with just enough fizz to keep things lively. I like how the bubbles lift up the sweetness, so it never feels too heavy.

It stays cool and goes down easy, especially over a bunch of ice.

After each sip, there’s this slightly salty and citrusy finish that lingers. The salt rim hits with a quick pop of flavor—makes me want to go back for another taste. Simple, clean, and honestly, just pleasant.