Safe Sex on the Beach
A vibrant, layered mocktail that combines the sweetness of peach and orange with the tartness of cranberry juice, creating a beautifully balanced and refreshing beverage perfect for any time of day. Its colorful, sunrise-like appearance makes it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. This alcohol-free version captures all the fun and flavor of the classic Sex on the Beach cocktail without the spirits.
Preparation
Preparation time: 3 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
This drink is classified as a mocktail, meaning it is a non-alcoholic beverage crafted to resemble a cocktail. It falls into the fruity category due to its primary ingredients of peach, orange, and cranberry juices.
Serving
Served chilled over ice in a tall Highball glass to showcase its beautiful layers, this is a completely non-alcoholic beverage suitable for all ages.
Serving size
Approximately 240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
The Safe Sex on the Beach emerged as a non-alcoholic alternative to the popular Sex on the Beach cocktail, which gained fame in the 1980s. Its name is a playful nod to the original, created to offer a delicious and inclusive option for designated drivers, non-drinkers, and anyone seeking a lighter choice. It successfully maintains the classic's fruity, tropical vibe without the alcohol.
Origin
United States, likely emerging in the late 1980s or early 1990s as a direct non-alcoholic variation of the original Sex on the Beach cocktail.
Safe Sex on the Beach
This mocktail is most famously known as "Safe Sex on the Beach," a playful take on the alcoholic original. It is also commonly referred to as "Virgin Sex on the Beach" or simply "Virgin on the Beach" to signify its non-alcoholic nature.
Original name
Safe Sex on the Beach
Alternative names
- Virgin Sex on the Beach
- Virgin on the Beach
Characteristics overview
This mocktail is a visual and flavorful delight, featuring a sunrise color gradient and a taste that balances sweet peach and orange with tart cranberry. It possesses a smooth, juicy texture and a clean, refreshing finish, making it an ideal summer drink.
Flavor
Fruity, sweet, tart, peachy, citrusy
Aroma
Peach, cranberry, orange
Taste balance
Sweet, sour
Aftertaste
Clean, fruity, refreshing
Fizziness
Still
Color appearance
Layered, sunrise effect, orange, red
Texture
Smooth, juicy, light-bodied
Seasonality
Refreshing, summery
Flavor intensity & Experience
The flavor is intensely fruity and sweet, nicely balanced by a pleasant tartness from the cranberry and orange juices. It is a completely non-alcoholic, non-spicy, and still beverage.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
This easy-to-make mocktail requires three core ingredients: peach nectar, orange juice, and cranberry juice. All components are non-alcoholic and easily found in most grocery stores.
- Peach Nectar60 ml / 2 ozThis replaces the peach schnapps from the original cocktail. Peach puree or syrup can also be used.
- Orange Juice90 ml / 3 ozFreshly squeezed is recommended for the best flavor, but good quality bottled juice works well.
- Cranberry Juice90 ml / 3 ozUse 100% pure cranberry juice for more tartness or a cranberry juice cocktail for a sweeter finish.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
No special equipment like a shaker is needed, as this drink is built directly in the serving glass. A bar spoon is helpful for layering the final ingredient.
- Highball glass
- Bar spoon
Instructions
The preparation is straightforward: build the ingredients over ice directly in a highball glass. The key technique is to pour the cranberry juice slowly over a spoon to create the signature layered look before garnishing.
1. Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes.
2. Pour the peach nectar and orange juice into the glass.
3. Gently and slowly pour the cranberry juice over the back of a bar spoon onto the top of the drink to create a distinct layered effect.
4. Garnish with a slice of orange and an optional maraschino cherry.
5. Serve immediately with a straw.
Garnishing
A simple garnish of a fresh orange slice or wedge complements the drink's flavors perfectly. For an extra pop of color, a maraschino cherry can be added.
- Orange slice or wedge, placed on the rim or in the glass
- Maraschino cherry, dropped into the drink (optional)
Dietary Information
This mocktail is naturally free from alcohol, caffeine, dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten. It is a vegan and vegetarian-friendly beverage suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
Due to the high content of fruit juices and nectar, this mocktail is moderately caloric and quite high in natural sugars and carbohydrates. It's a sweet indulgence without the alcohol.
Calories
Approximately 120-150 kcal / 502-628 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 30-38 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 28-35 g
Sugar level
Occasions
This drink is perfect for sunny days, social gatherings, and any event where a refreshing, non-alcoholic option is desired. It's a popular choice for brunches, poolside lounging, and family-friendly parties.
- Summer Parties
- Beach Outings
- Brunches
- Baby Showers
Pairing suggestions
The fruity and refreshing profile of this mocktail pairs well with light and fresh foods. It's an excellent choice for brunch, or to accompany light salads, fruit plates, and simple appetizers, as it won't overpower the food.
- Light salads with vinaigrette
- Fresh fruit platters
- Mild cheeses
- Brunch foods like pancakes or quiche
Safe Sex on the Beach: A Tropical Treat for Everyone
The Safe Sex on the Beach is a delightful and visually appealing mocktail that perfectly captures the essence of a tropical getaway. By combining peach nectar with orange and cranberry juices, it delivers a sweet and tangy flavor profile that's both refreshing and satisfying. Easy to make and universally enjoyable, it's the ideal non-alcoholic choice for parties, brunches, or simply relaxing on a warm day, proving that a fun and delicious drink doesn't require alcohol.
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