Malibu Bay Breeze

Float away to a tropical paradise with this classic Tiki cocktail.

I’m a big fan of Tiki drinks, Polynesian music and flowy, breezy Aloha shirts. Even before I vacationed on the island of Kauai in Hawaii a few years ago, I was fascinated with the history and culture of Tiki. Living in Los Angeles, we’re blessed to have a ton of themed bars peppered throughout the city and the South Bay. Right around the corner from me is the legendary Tiki-Ti, which first opened its doors in 1961. A short drive to North Hollywood will bring you to the popular and vibey Tonga Hut, which I’ve also visited in Palm Springs. And in Burbank, there’s the Broken Compass. These are only a few, and they happen to be my favorites. The cocktails are strong and, because they’re so fruity and delicious, can be a little deadly if you’re not careful. Just last night we went to the Broken Compass and I ordered a Sufre Batard, which is overproof gin and Navy strength rum mixed with ginger beer… I hadn’t imbibed any alcohol in twenty days, and the two Batards I had hit me like a train the next morning.

One of my favorite Tiki tipples is a relatively simple one, the Malibu Bay Breeze. Since we’ll be making this drink today, let’s take a closer look at what goes into it. Don’t worry, like I said before, it’ll be easy. You don’t even need a cocktail shaker. All that goes into this recipe is coconut rum, along with pineapple and cranberry juices. Sweet, fruity, tropical and tart, this layered beverage will allow you to visit the Tiki land of your imagination as you sink into your comfiest chair. Vacations don’t just have to involve physical travelling. Your mind can be allowed to wander with the right drink in your hand.

The Malibu Bay Breeze is said to have originated during the Tiki craze of the 1950s here in Southern California. It also appears to be born of the Cape Codder cocktail, which used vodka as its base and was mixed with cranberry juice. Adding pineapple and swapping the vodka for coconut rum brought a more Polynesian flair to the flavor, as well as its look. When the sun is high in the sky and the sounds of a pedal steel guitar are making you feel as though you’ll float away, make sure you have a Malibu Bay Breeze in your hand to keep you company.

What is the Best Rum to Use in a Malibu Bay Breeze?

A coconut rum, like the popular Malibu brand, is an ideal choice for this fruity and tropical-tasting concoction. If you don’t necessarily enjoy coconut, or happen to be allergic, you can use an overproof or Navy strength rum. These are a little more potent than a regular bottle, and are often used as toppers or floats in many Tiki cocktails.

FAQs & Tips

Similar Cocktails to the Malibu Bay Breeze

Grab your straw hats and board shorts and throw yourself into the nearest hammock. Summer is here and its time to enjoy all manner of Tiki drinks. If the Malibu Bay Breeze quenched your thirst and you’re craving more similarly strong potions, Twist & Toast has the tastiest recipes to add to your backyard barbecue’s menu. Try some of these cocktails out, then explore the site for even more ideas.

• Zombie – This classic Tiki drink will bring you back to life this summer.
• Blue Hawaiian Punch – You’ll be the life of the party as you sashay around with this cool blue beverage.
• Coconut Mojito – Creamy and minty, this refreshing cocktail is guaranteed to keep you from overheating.
• Blue Margarita – Tequila and blue curaçao make the perfect pair in this sweet and delicious elixir.