Hey friend! If you’re dreaming of beach days, warm sunsets, and fruity drinks that make you feel like you’re on vacation—this Tropical Layered Rum Runner is exactly what you need.
It’s colorful, refreshing, and surprisingly simple to put together. With sweet pineapple, creamy coconut, and that splash of bold blue on top, this drink is pure island vibes in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just chilling on the patio, this cocktail brings the beach to you.
What You’ll Need to Make One Tropical Drink
This recipe is for 1 drink, but feel free to scale it up for a whole party pitcher!
Tropical Ingredients:
- 1 oz Grenadine – for that sweet, pretty red base (hello, beach sunset 🌅)
- ½ oz Coconut Rum – adds a hint of creamy coconut
- 4 oz Pineapple Juice – like sunshine in a glass
- 1 oz Pineapple Rum – because why stop at just juice?
- 1 oz Blue Curaçao – for that stunning blue lagoon top
At-Home Tools:
- Ice – keeps everything frosty and fresh
- Shaker (or a cup with a lid) – great for blending your layers
- Glass – a hurricane or tall glass shows off those gorgeous colors
Fun Garnish Ideas (optional, but recommended!):
- Pineapple wedges
- Grapefruit slices
- Maraschino cherries

How to Make This Beautiful Layered Drink
Step 1: Start with Ice
Fill your glass with ice to keep everything nice and cold while you build those layers.
Step 2: Pour the Sunset
Start by pouring **1 oz of grenadine** directly into the bottom of the glass. It’ll settle beautifully and look just like a tropical sunset.
Step 3: Shake Up the Golden Layer
In a shaker (or any container with a lid), combine 4 oz pineapple juice and ½ oz coconut rum with a bit of ice. Shake it until it’s blended and chilled.
Gently pour this golden mixture over the grenadine. You’ll see a second layer form—like sunshine floating on the sea.
Step 4: Create the Lagoon
Now, mix 1 oz pineapple rum and 1 oz blue curaçao in the shaker with a little more ice. Shake or stir to chill.
Slowly pour this mix over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the golden layer. This creates that dreamy blue lagoon effect right on top.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Dress up your drink with pineapple slices, a cherry, or a wedge of grapefruit. It’s optional—but it really brings the island vibes!
Your Backyard Just Became a Beach Bar
And that’s it—your Layered Rum Runner is ready to sip and enjoy! It’s fruity, tropical, and guaranteed to impress with its sunset-to-lagoon layering. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this drink makes every moment feel like vacation.