My recipe for a Malibu sunset cocktail makes a gorgeous layered drink that is perfect to sip on a warm summer day or evening. I am using just three ingredients to make this delicious fruity cocktail drink that will make you feel like you just landed on a tropical island.

A Malibu sunset cocktail is my go-to drink during the warmer months of the year. It’s easy to make, has amazing tropical flavor, and is so pretty to look at.

The combination of flavors really go well together and the hint of coconut rum really sets it off. It’s like a mini vacation in a glass.

Be sure to check out this watermelon margarita and ranch water recipe if you are looking for more refreshing cocktails.

What is a Malibu sunset?

This tropical drink is full of island flavor and can sometimes be referred to as a “Malibu Barbie drink”. It’s a layered cocktail that is made with Malibu rum, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Because the drink is layered, it is supposed to look like a sunset.

Why this Malibu rum drink works

• Show stopper – This is a beautiful drink that looks just like a beachy sunset.
• Budget friendly – Only need 3 ingredients that are typically reasonably priced to make this cheap cocktail.
• No shaker – You don’t need a cocktail shaker to make this recipe.
• Great for a crowd – You can easily make this a single drink or enough for a large crowd.

Ingredients

• Malibu rum – This is a coconut flavored rum that you can usually find at most stores.
• Pineapple juice – Adds a wonderful, fruity flavor to the drink.
• Grenadine – You can use bottled grenadine or maraschino cherry juice to add sweetness and a beautiful bright red color.
• Garnish – Try adding maraschino cherries or pineapple chunks for garnish.

How to make a Malibu sunset cocktail

Scroll down for full printable recipe, ingredients and video. 

Step one: Fill a glass with ice.

Step two: Carefully pour in the pineapple juice first. Next pour in the Malibu rum.

Step three: Slightly tip the glass and then drizzle in the grenadine for a layered cocktail look.

Step four: Add a garnish like cherries, pineapple, or even a tiny cocktail umbrella.

Step five: Serve the cocktail. I like serving this in a shorter glass but feel free to use the glass of your choice.

Heather’s recipe tips

• Make this a non-alcoholic drink by replacing the Malibu rum with coconut water.
• If you would like your drink a little sweeter, add more grenadine. To make it stronger, add a little extra rum.
• Don’t forget, don’t stir the drink. You want to keep the pretty layered look of the sunset.
• You can change up the drink by adding a splash of orange juice or cranberry juice to enhance the fruit flavor.

Common questions

What to serve with this Malibu cocktail

There are many tasty things you can serve alongside your cocktail. It’s perfect to serve by the pool, at BBQ’s and so much more. A few of my favorites include bacon wrapped water chestnuts, million dollar crack dip, and jalapeno popper dip.

More cocktail recipes

• Malibu bay breeze is another tasty rum cocktail.
• Midori sour is made with green midori, sour mix, citrus, and soda.
• Blushing mimosa is a similar drink to a Malibu sunset but uses sparkling wine.
• Pineapple upside down cake shot is another cocktail that uses pineapple juice.

Let me know if you made this Malibu Sunset recipe by leaving a comment and rating below. This recipe is for people of drinking age. Please drink responsibly.