Health

15 Summer Mocktails To Try If You’re Taking A Break From Alcohol

These non-alcoholic mixed drinks will have you rethinking your go-to summer sipper.

By Renée Walton2 min read
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Shutterstock/Svitlana Denysiuk

Summer is here, and with it comes a calendar full of pool days, backyard barbeques, and weddings. And while these warm weather get-togethers are typically enjoyed with an alcoholic drink in hand, let’s face it – we all know drinking does more harm for our bodies than good. I’m not opposed to a refreshing classic cocktail or glass of wine, but sometimes a day of drinking can slow us down, make us feel lethargic, and honestly put a damper on our carefree summer vibe. 

If you’re taking a step back from alcohol this season for whatever reason, consider the mocktail – it gives all the delightful and refreshing fun of a cocktail, but without the boozy aftermath. Here are 15 alcohol-free drinks to try this summer – which one will be your new favorite? 

Spicy Blackberry Margarita

Lately, I’ve been liking my margaritas with some heat. This unexpected combination of jalepeño and blackberry gives this summer classic a fun kick. 

Blood Orange Coconut Mocktail 

Break out the floaties and floppy hats – this drink is just begging to be enjoyed poolside. 

Pineapple Mint Mojito Mocktail 

To me, there’s no cocktail (or mocktail) that is more refreshing than a mojito. The pineapple in this one adds some summery, tropical flair. 

Blood Orange Bee Sting Mocktail

Sweet honey and spicy Tajíin pairs with tangy citrus for all the flavors of a delicious summer cocktail – without the buzz. 

Pink Drink Spritz Mocktail

Fresh strawberries and coconut milk give this drink a beautiful light pink hue – perfect to serve for a girls’ night on the patio this summer, or for a bridal or baby shower. 

Strawberry Basil Simple Syrup

Strawberry and basil give me June vibes – when strawberries are in season and before my basil plant inevitably dies (every year!). This simple syrup is perfect to have on hand for whenever the mocktail mood strikes. Mix with club soda and pour over ice. Garnish with basil leaves and fresh strawberries. 

Barbie Mocktail with Dragon Fruit Syrup

With Barbie coming out in July 2023 and Barbiecore styles continuing to heat up, it truly is a Barbie girl summer. This drink will help you celebrate accordingly. 

Mango Margarita Mocktail

A pinch of red pepper flakes gives this sweet and tangy marg a spicy kick. Olé!  

Sleepy Girl Digestion Mocktail

With the natural melatonin in cherry juice, this drink gives the term nightcap a whole new meaning. Not to mention, it’s tasty and encourages healthy digestion to boot. 

Carrot Margarita Mocktail

This one seems odd – this earthy root vegetable doesn’t exactly lend itself to the classically tart margarita. But when you consider the fact that carrot juice is loaded with vitamins and may improve your immunity and skin health, this drink is definitely worth a try. 

Thyme Well Spent

If you’re more of an herby girl, this thyme and ginger combo might be more your style. It's light, bubbly, and perfectly balanced – ideal for sipping at your next garden party

Bee’s Knees Mocktail

A classic old-school cocktail, minus the hangover tomorrow. 

Anti-Inflammatory Citrus Mocktail

Get the antioxidant benefits of tea with a fun twist.  

Mango Mint Mojito Mocktail

What says summer drinks more than fresh mango? Fresh mango with lime and mint.

Brazilian Lemonada

Rehydrate after a day in the sun with a summer slushie that you can feel good about. Coconut milk and salt make the perfect electrolyte combo, and the lime provides plenty of vitamin C. 

Closing Thoughts 

Whatever your reason for taking some time off from drinking, it’s refreshing to know that you can still have a fancy, flirty drink this summer, without the effects of alcohol. After all, it’s the unexpected flavor combinations, elegant glassware, and whimsical garnishes – not necessarily the alcohol content – that make mixed drinks so fun. Bottoms up!

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