Refreshing Homemade Summer Cocktail Recipes

As the weather starts to warm up, thoughts inevitably drift towards sandy beaches, sun-kissed skin, and that first sip of a refreshing cocktail under the sun. Whether you’re already counting down the days to your summer getaway or simply longing for those holiday vibes, why not bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your home?

We've curated a list of delicious, easy-to-make summer cocktails that capture the essence of a perfect beach holiday. They're ideal for garden parties, BBQs, or simply sipping while planning your next sunny escape—perhaps to the Turkish Riviera?

 

Mediterranean Citrus Spritz

Inspired by: The breezy beach bars of Antalya

Ingredients:

·        50ml Aperol

·        100ml sparkling lemonade

·        Slice of orange

·        Fresh mint

·        Ice

How to Make:

Fill a glass with ice, pour over the Aperol and sparkling lemonade, stir gently, and garnish with a slice of orange and a sprig of mint. It’s as vibrant and zesty as a Mediterranean sunset.

 

Tropical Basil Cooler

Perfect for: Garden days when you're dreaming of palm trees

Ingredients:

·        50ml white rum

·        100ml pineapple juice

·        A squeeze of lime

·        Fresh basil leaves

·        Crushed ice

How to Make:

Muddle a few basil leaves in the bottom of your glass, add ice, rum, lime juice, and pineapple juice. Stir well and enjoy with your feet up.

 

Strawberry & Pomegranate Sparkle

Best served with: A side of sunshine and a hammock

Ingredients:

·        50ml vodka

·        100ml pomegranate juice

·        A few fresh strawberries (sliced)

·        Splash of soda water

·        Ice

How to Make:

Combine vodka, pomegranate juice, and ice in a shaker. Pour into a glass, top with soda water, and garnish with strawberry slices. A fruity, Instagram-worthy refresher!

 

Savour the Finest Cocktails Where They’re Made Best: at Side Star Hotels

While these homemade cocktails are a great start, nothing quite beats sipping the real thing by a poolside. At Side Star Hotels, located along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast, our skilled bartenders serve up fresh, locally inspired cocktails every day. Whether you prefer a mojito by the sea or a martini on the terrace, we’ve got your summer drink dreams covered.

 

Cucumber Lemon Gin Fizz

For those who: Prefer something light, crisp, and refreshing

Ingredients:

·        50ml gin

·        100ml tonic water

·        Juice of ½ lemon

·        A few slices of cucumber

·        Ice and mint

How to Make:

In a glass filled with ice, combine gin, lemon juice, and tonic water. Stir and garnish with cucumber slices and mint. Light, aromatic, and effortlessly elegant.

 

Peach Iced Tea Sangria

A twist on a classic: For those lazy weekend afternoons

Ingredients:

·        200ml chilled peach iced tea

·        100ml white wine (dry)

·        Peach slices and berries

·        Ice

How to Make:

Mix iced tea and wine in a jug, add fruit and ice, and let sit for 10 minutes to infuse. Pour into glasses and enjoy with friends—or while planning your next sun-soaked adventure.

 

These homemade cocktails are a lovely way to bring the spirit of summer into your everyday routine. And when you're ready to trade your back garden for golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and poolside refreshments, Side Star Hotels is ready to welcome you.