Tropical Escape: The ‘Piña Colada’

IBA Cocktail

Have you ever imagined sipping on a taste of the beach right at home? The Piña Colada, created by Ramón ‘Monchito’ Marrero, is all about sun-soaked relaxation and easygoing vibes. With its smooth mix of Rum, Coconut Cream, and Pineapple Juice, this classic truly feels like a little vacation in a glass.

Tropical Escape: The ‘Piña Colada’

The Piña Colada might be the very definition of a carefree tropical drink. Its key ingredients are Rum, Coconut Cream, and Pineapple Juice, all combined to form a frothy, silky texture that goes down smoothly. The Rum brings a soft, warming kick, while the coconut cream adds a velvety richness. Pineapple Juice brings refreshing tang and that beloved fruity pop. Taken together, they create a sweet but not overpowering cocktail that tastes like sunshine.

Visually, it’s often served in a tall glass, showing off its pale, creamy colour. A garnish of a pineapple wedge or a Maraschino Cherry on top signals the delightful blend of sweet and tangy inside. Though it’s undeniably indulgent, the Piña Colada’s light-hearted charm has helped it remain a go-to option for beach bars and fancy lounges alike. It’s also part of the IBA official cocktail list, signifying its well-earned global status.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a sandy shore or in your living room, the Piña Colada delivers a laid-back taste of island life. Its comforting balance of creaminess and tropical fruit invites you to slow down, take a sip, and imagine you’re listening to gentle waves. No wonder it has endured for decades as a symbol of laid-back escape—one sip can make you forget the bustle of daily life.

a chilled swirl of coconut sweetness and bright tropical tang.

Did you know that Piña Colada...

... became the official drink of Puerto Rico in 1978, honouring its origins?

Who invented this cocktail

The Piña Colada was crafted by Ramón ‘Monchito’ Marrero in Puerto Rico in the mid-1950s, aiming to delight hotel guests.

The origin and history of "Piña Colada"

Introduced at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan, the Piña Colada quickly won over visitors longing for something refreshing. Legend says Ramón ‘Monchito’ Marrero spent months perfecting the right combo of Rum, coconut, and pineapple. Since the 1950s, it has climbed in popularity, spreading across bars worldwide and becoming an icon of tropical relaxation.

Get Our Free Cocktail App

Start making cocktails at home within minutes!

download mishela app from android
download mishela app from ios

Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Piña Colada"

To make the perfect Piña Colada, try these tips:
  • Choose a smooth, light Rum so other flavours shine through.
  • Use thick Coconut Cream to achieve a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
  • Opt for fresh Pineapple Juice for a brighter, more authentic tang.
  • Blend with ice for a creamy yet lightly frozen consistency.
  • Garnish with a pineapple slice or cherry for that vacation vibe.

Piña Colada recipe

Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min

Ingredients

  • 60 ml WHITE RUM
  • 45 ml COCONUT CREAM
  • 60 ml PINEAPPLE JUICE
  • 4-5 cubes ICE
  • 2 oz WHITE RUM
  • 1½ oz COCONUT CREAM
  • 2 oz PINEAPPLE JUICE
  • 4-5 cubes ICE

Garnish

  • PINEAPPLE SLICE
  • COCKTAIL CHERRIES

Preparation

  1. Add all the ingredients into a blender with ice
  2. Blend until smooth
  3. Pour into a chilled glass
  4. Garnish and serve

Nutritional Info

  • Calories:312 kcal
  • Alcohol units:2.4 units
  • ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~15%

Dietary Info

VeganVegetarianGluten-free

"Piña Colada" Variations

  • Spiced Colada – Adds a dash of Spiced Rum for extra warmth and cinnamon notes.
  • Colada Float – Tops the drink with a bit of overproof Rum for a strong finish.
  • Tropical Colada – Mixes in Mango or Passion Fruit pulp for a fruit-forward twist.
  • Skinny Colada – Uses lighter coconut milk and reduced sugar for fewer calories.
  • Blue Colada – Swaps plain Rum for Blue Curaçao and cuts back on the pineapple for a striking colour.

Let each sip of the Piña Colada transport you to a breezy paradise. With its smooth mix of coconut, pineapple, and gentle Rum, this classic is as comforting as it is fun. Whether savoured poolside or at your kitchen table, you’ll find a tropical retreat in every glass.

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before appearing on the site and will be reviewed within 24 hours.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Current Comments: 7

Carla D.
Nov 29, 2024
Reminded me of my vacation in the Caribbean. Added a splash of dark rum on top for an extra kick. The presentation was fantastic with the pineapple slice and cherry.
Francesca_11
Oct 29, 2024
Batch-making Piña Coladas for a party was a smart move. Mixed all ingredients in a large blender and kept it chilled. Everyone loved the consistent flavor and creamy texture.
Marco7
Aug 27, 2024
Found the perfect ratio for my Piña Colada by using 2 parts rum to 1 part coconut cream. It’s balanced and not too thick. The pineapple garnish always makes it look inviting.
AnaRivera
Apr 10, 2024
Prefer using crushed ice for a slushier texture. It blends more smoothly and gives that authentic frozen Piña Colada feel. Plus, it's quicker to prepare for a party.
Max_L
Mar 4, 2024
Decided to skip the pineapple slice garnish this time and used a lime wheel instead. It added a nice tang to the sweetness of the drink. Still looked festive and tasted great.
IslandMixer
Nov 3, 2023
Split base between white and aged rum adds depth. Fresh pineapple juice is essential - canned lacks brightness.
TikiTom
Apr 17, 2023
Try coconut cream from fresh coconuts - game changer. Diplomatico Reserva adds amazing vanilla notes.