Ask Cookix, your sous-chef

Classic Blue Hawaii Tropical Cocktail

Invented in 1957 by legendary bartender Harry Yee at Honolulu’s Hilton Hawaiian Village, the Blue Hawaii remains a vibrant symbol of mid-century tiki culture. Its signature sky-blue hue comes from blue curaçao—an orange-flavored liqueur—balanced by the bright tropical notes of pineapple juice and sweet-and-sour mix. Light rum and vodka provide a clean, boozy backbone, while crushed ice in a tall Hurricane glass evokes sun-drenched beaches and swaying palms. An iconic miniature umbrella and pineapple wedge garnish complete the postcard-perfect presentation. Each sip marries citrus tang, gentle sweetness and a whisper of bitters from curaçao, transporting you straight to the Aloha State. Perfect for summer parties, poolside lounging or any celebration that calls for a splash of color and nostalgia, this cocktail captures the playful spirit of Tiki revival and remains as photogenic as it is refreshing.

Beverage | Hawaiian | Dairy-Free | Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegan | Cocktail | Cocktail Glass | Cocktail Shaker | Mixing Bowl | Sieve | Whisk | Blue Curaçao | Pineapple Juice | Rum | Vodka | Shaking | Straining | Casual Gathering | Cocktail Party | Festive | Summer | Warm Weather | Under 5 Minutes
Time to complete

Prep

5min

Cook

0 minutes

Wait

0 minutes

Total

5min

Ingredients (Makes 1 cocktail)

Main

  • ¾ ounce (22 ml) vodka
  • ¾ ounce (22 ml) light rum
  • ½ ounce (15 ml) blue curaçao
  • 3 ounces (90 ml) pineapple juice
  • 1 ounce (30 ml) sweet-and-sour mix

For Serving/Garnishing

  • 1 pineapple wedge
  • 1 cocktail umbrella
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 120 kcal per 100 g
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
Directions

Mix Cocktail

  • 1. In a shaker, combine 22 ml vodka, 22 ml light rum, 15 ml blue curaçao, 90 ml pineapple juice and 30 ml sweet-and-sour mix. Fill with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled, about 10 seconds.

Strain & Serve

  • 2. Fill a Hurricane glass with crushed or pebble ice. Strain the chilled cocktail into the glass, letting it cascade over the ice to create an even layer of blue.

Garnish

  • 3. Perch a pineapple wedge on the rim and finish with a miniature cocktail umbrella. Serve immediately.
Cookix's Secrets

Berry Hawaii

  • Muddle 3 fresh raspberries in the shaker before adding ice and the rest of the ingredients for a fruity twist.

Coconut Twist

  • Replace half the pineapple juice with coconut water or cream of coconut for extra tropical richness.

Frozen Blue Hawaii

  • Blend all ingredients with 1 cup (240 ml) of ice until smooth for a slushy, frozen version.

Fruit Freshness

  • Chill your pineapple juice beforehand and gently roll the lemon or lime before juicing for maximum brightness.

Garnish Artistry

  • Press the pineapple wedge against the glass before sliding on the rim for a neat, secure presentation.

Glassware

  • Choose a tall Hurricane glass to showcase the vibrant color gradient and hold plenty of ice.

Ice Choice

  • Use fresh crushed or pebble ice to help the cocktail stay cold without watering it down too quickly.

Mixing Technique

  • Shake with a firm, brisk motion to ensure the blue curaçao fully integrates and the drink is icy cold.

Mocktail Blue Lagoon

  • Omit the spirits and use 60 ml blue curaçao syrup with soda water for a non-alcoholic version.

Spiced Hawaii

  • Add a pinch of ground ginger or a splash of spiced rum to introduce warm spice notes.