About the Blue Hawaii cocktail

The Blue Hawaii is a drink that screams vacation — bright, fruity, and unapologetically fun. It was created in 1957 by bartender Harry Yee at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki.

A sales rep from Bols asked Yee to showcase their new blue curaçao, and the result was this vibrant cocktail that quickly became a symbol of tiki and resort culture.

Its striking color, courtesy of that curaçao, made it instantly recognizable, and its blend of rum, vodka, pineapple, and citrus created a balanced but approachable tropical flavor.

Even today, it remains a favorite at poolside bars and beach resorts worldwide.

What Makes the Blue Hawaii Cocktail Special

The Blue Hawaii cocktail recipe is fruity, tart, and delightfully tropical.

The combination of light rum and vodka builds a smooth backbone, while pineapple juice and sweet-and-sour mix (or fresh lemon juice and simple syrup) deliver juicy, citrus brightness.

Blue curaçao adds a touch of orange flavor and, of course, the electric ocean-blue hue.

It’s a drink that embodies summer escapism — sweet enough to be approachable, tart enough to stay refreshing, and colorful enough to turn heads across the bar.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

Want to riff on this tropical classic?

• Swap light rum for coconut rum to emphasize tropical sweetness.

• Use only rum and skip the vodka for a more tiki-forward version.

• Replace sweet-and-sour mix with fresh lemon juice + simple syrup for a brighter, fresher profile.

• Garnish with a cherry and pineapple wedge for a resort-style finish.

Pair the Blue Hawaii with salty snacks or tropical fare: coconut shrimp, grilled fish tacos, or teriyaki skewers. It also pairs wonderfully with spicy Asian dishes since the sweetness helps mellow the heat.

Why the Blue Hawaii Still Shines

The Blue Hawaii is bold, fun, and built for celebration.

It’s a piece of tiki history that remains as eye-catching today as it was in 1957. Whether you’re at a backyard luau, a summer pool party, or just craving something playful, the Blue Hawaii is the perfect ticket to the tropics.