Picture this: You’re sitting under a palm tree with the sun warming your face, and a gentle breeze rustling the leaves.
What’s in your hand? A coconut margarita, of course!
This cocktail is everything you want in a tropical drink—refreshing, creamy, and a little bit indulgent, with just the right kick of tequila. I love this recipe because it’s like a vacation in a glass.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau, looking for the perfect summer sip, or just want to elevate Taco Tuesday, this coconut margarita is your new best friend.
Trust me, after one taste, you’ll feel like you’re on an island getaway—even if you’re just on your couch.
In this post, you'll find...
When to Serve Coconut Margaritas
This coconut margarita is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests or treat yourself:
- Summer BBQs – Pair it with grilled shrimp or fish tacos for a match made in heaven.
- Beach Parties – Even if the beach is just your backyard kiddie pool.
- Brunches – Swap your mimosa for a coconut margarita and watch your friends swoon.
- Me Time – Sometimes, the best company is your couch and a killer margarita.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For one serving:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz triple sec (or Cointreau)
- 1.5 oz coconut cream
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz coconut water
- 1 tsp agave syrup (optional)
- Ice (crushed or cubed)
- Toasted coconut flakes and lime wedges (for garnish)
Ingredient Breakdown
Silver Tequila
Go for a good-quality silver tequila—it’s the backbone of this cocktail. Its clean, crisp flavor balances the creaminess of the coconut without overpowering it. No need to break the bank, but avoid the super-cheap stuff that reminds you of bad spring break decisions.
Triple Sec or Cointreau
This adds a sweet, citrusy layer that ties the lime juice and coconut cream together beautifully. If you want to go fancy, use Cointreau for a smoother, more refined taste.
Coconut Cream
The star of the show! Coconut cream is rich and velvety, giving this margarita its dreamy, tropical vibe. Be sure to grab the unsweetened kind (not to be confused with coconut milk or cream of coconut).
Fresh Lime Juice
Nothing beats freshly squeezed lime juice—it’s zesty, tangy, and miles better than the bottled stuff. This ingredient cuts through the richness of the coconut cream, bringing balance to the cocktail.
Coconut Water
A little splash of coconut water keeps things light and adds a natural sweetness. Plus, it gives a hydrating touch—so this margarita is practically a health drink, right?
Agave Syrup
Optional, but highly recommended if you like a hint of sweetness. Just a teaspoon enhances the coconut and lime flavors without making it overly sugary.
Garnishes
Toasted coconut flakes add a crunchy, nutty element, while lime wedges make your drink look extra Instagram-worthy.
How to Make a Coconut Margarita
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
Start by prepping your glass to set the tropical mood. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into a plate of toasted coconut flakes. Not only does this look amazing, but it also adds a delicious texture with every sip.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the silver tequila, triple sec, coconut cream, lime juice, coconut water, and agave syrup. Add a generous handful of ice to the shaker. Don’t have a shaker? No problem—use a jar with a tight lid.
Step 3: Shake It Like You Mean It
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 20-30 seconds. You want everything to blend beautifully while chilling the drink to perfection. Pro tip: The longer you shake, the creamier and frothier the coconut cream gets.
Step 4: Pour and Serve
Fill your prepared glass with ice—crushed ice works best for that vacation vibe, but cubed ice will do the trick too. Strain your cocktail mixture over the ice, letting the creamy goodness flow into the glass.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Add a lime wedge to the rim and sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for a finishing touch. For extra flair, you can even pop in a cute tropical drink umbrella. Take a sip and let the island vibes transport you!
Tips for the Perfect Coconut Margarita
- Chill Everything: Make sure your ingredients are cold before mixing. A warm margarita is a no-go.
- Balance is Key: Taste your mixture before pouring it into the glass. If it’s too tangy, add a touch more agave syrup. Too sweet? Add a splash of lime juice.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Want more coconut flavor? Add a splash of coconut rum. Feeling adventurous? Toss in a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Batch It: Hosting a party? Multiply the ingredients and whip up a batch. Mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge. Shake individual servings with ice when ready to serve.
Coconut Margarita Recipe
Coconut Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz triple sec or Cointreau
- 1.5 oz coconut cream unsweetened
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz coconut water
- 1 tsp agave syrup optional
- Ice crushed or cubed
- Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass.
- Dip the rim into a plate of toasted coconut flakes to coat evenly.
- In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz silver tequila, 1 oz triple sec, 1.5 oz coconut cream, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 1 oz coconut water, and 1 tsp agave syrup (optional for sweetness).
- Add a generous handful of ice to the shaker.
- Secure the lid and shake the mixture for 20-30 seconds until well chilled and frothy.
- Fill the prepared glass with ice (crushed or cubed).
- Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.
- Add a lime wedge to the rim and sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top.
- Optional: Add a fun tropical drink umbrella for a festive touch.
- Enjoy!
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Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!