Next to You in Malibu Cocktail – Coconut Rum Sunset Drink

If you’ve been dreaming of a tropical escape, I’m so grateful you’re here—because this drink is going to sweep you straight off your feet. The Next to You in Malibu Cocktail is more than just a beverage; it’s a golden-hued escape in a tall glass, kissed by coconut and warmed by the colors of a beachy sunset. The moment I first stirred one together, I knew this was the kind of cocktail I had to share with you. It’s stunning, refreshing, and anything but boring.

What Is the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail?

This cocktail is what happens when you blend the laid-back charm of coconut rum with juicy tropical fruits and a splash of grenadine that sinks like a sunset. Designed to look as beautiful as it tastes, the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail layers mango nectar, pineapple juice, and a touch of lime with Malibu Coconut Rum. It finishes with a slow drizzle of grenadine that cascades down to the bottom, creating a gorgeous ombré effect reminiscent of a coastal sunset in Malibu.

It’s a drink that invites you to relax and savor—whether you’re by the pool, lounging on the patio, or just closing your eyes and pretending you’re listening to ocean waves.

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

There are countless reasons this cocktail has become one of my go-to favorites, but here are a few that really stand out:

1. Visually stunning: The layered gradient is a showstopper every time. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, it brings that extra wow factor.

2. Bright, tropical flavor profile: With pineapple, mango, coconut, and lime all playing together, each sip is a little trip to paradise.

3. Quick and easy to make: You don’t need a fancy bar setup. Just a shaker, a glass, and a spoon for the grenadine pour.

4. Crowd-friendly: It can be scaled up easily for batches or pitchers without losing its beauty or flavor.

5. Adaptable: Want it stronger? Add a float of dark rum. Prefer it without alcohol? Swap in coconut water for a mocktail that still feels indulgent.

What Does the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail Taste Like?

This cocktail is like a tropical fruit bowl in liquid form—elevated by the smooth, creamy finish of coconut rum and balanced with the brightness of lime. The pineapple juice adds tang and natural sweetness, the mango nectar brings body and richness, and the lime cuts through the sweetness with a bit of tartness.

But what really ties it all together is the Malibu Coconut Rum, which is subtle enough not to overpower but distinct enough to remind you this isn’t just fruit juice—it’s a cocktail meant to transport you.

The final touch, grenadine, doesn’t just make it look like a sunset; it adds a soft cherry-like sweetness that deepens the drink’s complexity as it settles at the base.

Is This Cocktail a Healthier Option?

While still considered an indulgent treat, the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail uses real juices like pineapple and mango nectar, which offer some nutritional benefits. Pineapple is high in vitamin C, and mango nectar contains beta-carotene and antioxidants. When made without heavy syrups or artificial mixers, it stands as a relatively cleaner cocktail compared to sugar-loaded frozen drinks.

And if you opt for the non-alcoholic version with coconut water instead of rum, you’ll be sipping on a drink that’s naturally hydrating and loaded with electrolytes.

Ingredients for the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail

To make one tall, sunset-hued glass, you’ll need the following:

• 2 ounces Malibu Coconut Rum
• 3 ounces pineapple juice
• 2 ounces mango nectar
• ½ ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• ½ ounce grenadine
• Ice (either crushed or cubed)

Optional Garnishes

• Lime wheel
• Pineapple wedge or frond
• Maraschino cherry

These garnishes aren’t just for looks—they add aroma and a festive touch that elevates the whole experience.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a professional bar setup, but having a few basic tools will make the process smoother:

• Tall cocktail glass
• Cocktail shaker or any mixing container
• Bar spoon or regular spoon (for layering grenadine)
• Jigger or measuring tools
• Straw (optional, but nice for stirring and sipping)

Substitutions and Additions

I love how versatile this drink is—it allows for plenty of creative swaps and upgrades without losing its essence.

Substitutions:

• Malibu Coconut Rum: You can use another brand of coconut rum or even plain white rum with a splash of coconut extract.
• Mango nectar: Peach nectar or orange juice makes for a fun twist.
• Grenadine: Substitute with pomegranate juice or raspberry syrup for a different kind of sunset hue.
• Pineapple juice: Tropical juice blends (especially those with passion fruit) work wonderfully too.
• Lime juice: If you don’t have fresh limes, use bottled juice, but scale back slightly.

Additions:

• Float of dark rum on top for a more layered, spiced flavor.
• Splash of soda water for a lighter, more spritz-like version.
• Coconut cream to turn it into a creamy cocktail closer to a piña colada.

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail

1. Fill a tall cocktail glass with crushed or cubed ice. This keeps your drink chilled and helps maintain the gradient.
2. In a shaker or mixing glass, combine:
   • 2 oz Malibu Coconut Rum
   • 3 oz pineapple juice
   • 2 oz mango nectar
   • ½ oz freshly squeezed lime juice
3. Shake gently or stir to mix the ingredients evenly. No need to shake too hard—just enough to combine.
4. Pour the mixture over the ice in your prepared glass.
5. Now comes the fun part: slowly pour the grenadine (½ oz) over the back of a spoon so it drizzles gently down the inside of the glass. Watch as it settles at the bottom and creates that mesmerizing sunset effect.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel, a pineapple leaf or wedge, and a maraschino cherry for maximum tropical vibes.
7. Serve with a straw. Encourage guests to give it a gentle stir if they prefer a more blended flavor.

How to Batch It for a Party

To scale up for a group:

• 8 oz Malibu Coconut Rum
• 12 oz pineapple juice
• 8 oz mango nectar
• 2 oz lime juice
• 2 oz grenadine (add to individual glasses)

Mix the rum, juices, and lime in a large pitcher without ice. When serving, pour over fresh ice in individual glasses and add grenadine to each to preserve that layered look. Garnish per glass for the best presentation.

What to Serve With the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail

This cocktail pairs beautifully with tropical-inspired appetizers and light meals. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Coconut shrimp with chili-mango dipping sauce
• Pineapple and prosciutto skewers
• Grilled chicken sliders with spicy aioli
• Tropical fruit salad with mint and lime
• Mini tacos with citrus slaw and avocado crema

Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau or planning a chill evening on the deck, these pairings make it a perfect mini feast.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor—it adds brightness that bottled juice just can’t match.
• Layer grenadine slowly for the most dramatic visual impact.
• Use crushed ice to help hold the gradient in place longer.
• Chill your glass ahead of time for extra refreshment.
• Make a mocktail version by swapping Malibu for coconut water or coconut milk, depending on your preferred texture.

How to Store or Prep Ahead

While the cocktail is best made fresh, you can mix the rum, juices, and lime juice ahead of time and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Don’t add ice or grenadine until ready to serve to avoid dilution and loss of the sunset effect.

For a party, prep a large batch in a pitcher, chill well, and pour over fresh ice. Layer the grenadine in each glass individually just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?
Absolutely. Just replace the Malibu Coconut Rum with coconut water for a lighter, non-alcoholic version. Coconut milk also works for a creamier mocktail.

Can I make this in advance for a party?
Yes. Mix everything except the grenadine ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Add ice and grenadine just before serving.

What’s a good alternative if I don’t have grenadine?
You can use pomegranate juice or raspberry syrup. They create a similar visual effect and bring a slightly different but delicious flavor.

Is mango nectar the same as mango juice?
Not quite. Mango nectar is thicker and usually sweeter than mango juice, which is lighter and more diluted. For the best flavor and consistency, nectar is recommended.

Related Tropical Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re in love with this sunset drink, here are more tropical, fruity cocktails that share the same warm-weather spirit:

• Pineapple Mudslide Cocktail Recipe – A creamy twist on the classic mudslide, with a pineapple-coconut flair that pairs beautifully with this cocktail.
• Girl in Red Colada Cocktail – A seductive and bold piña colada variation that offers a romantic complement to the Malibu-inspired flavors.
• Pink Lemon Paradise Cocktail Recipe – Light, citrusy, and effervescent—perfect for brunch or when you want a refreshing contrast.

These drinks all share a sense of tropical escape and vibrant color that will make any gathering feel like a getaway.

Conclusion

The Next to You in Malibu Cocktail is more than just a pretty drink. It’s a sensory journey, a moment of calm, and a taste of island life all in one tall, icy glass. Whether you’re mixing one up for a quiet evening or making a pitcher for a celebration, this cocktail brings sunshine and joy to any occasion.

Its vibrant layers, lush flavors, and easygoing preparation make it a must-try for coconut rum lovers, tropical drink enthusiasts, and anyone who just wants to sip something that looks and tastes like summer.

Let this cocktail be your next excuse to pause, breathe, and toast to good things.

Share Your Experience

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your version of the Next to You in Malibu Cocktail. Snap a photo, share it on Pinterest, or tag me with your creation. Leave a review below and tell me where you enjoyed your Malibu moment—by the beach, on the balcony, or wrapped in a blanket with island dreams.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 190
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugars: 20g
• Alcohol: 14g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g

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