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Vodka is one of my favorite spirits to use during the summer—it’s light, mixes well with almost anything, and makes it easy to create refreshing drinks with fruit, citrus, herbs, or bubbles.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, throwing a backyard party, or just cooling off after a long hot day, these vodka cocktails are perfect for the season. Each one is simple to mix up and delivers crisp, clean flavors that taste like summer in a glass.
In this list, I’m sharing 12 go-to vodka drinks that I always come back to when I want something chilled, easy, and crowd-pleasing. You’ll also find a helpful tip with each recipe that’ll make your drink even better, because little tweaks go a long way!
1. Classic Moscow Mule
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 4 mins
A staple in my summer drink rotation, this cocktail combines vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer in a copper mug. It’s crisp, zesty, and has a spicy kick that keeps things refreshing with every sip.
Special Recipe Tip: Add a few cucumber slices for an extra layer of coolness that pairs perfectly with the ginger.
2. Sea Breeze
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 3 mins
Cranberry and grapefruit juices come together with vodka for a tart and slightly sweet cocktail that feels light and beachy. I love this drink because it’s easy and works great for daytime sipping.
Special Recipe Tip: Use fresh grapefruit juice for a brighter, less bitter flavor.
3. Watermelon Vodka Cooler
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 5 mins
Blended fresh watermelon, lime juice, and vodka make this drink a summer must-have. It’s hydrating, naturally sweet, and tastes like sunshine in a glass.
Special Recipe Tip: Freeze chunks of watermelon and use them as ice cubes to keep your drink cold without watering it down.
4. Vodka Lemonade
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 4 mins
One of the easiest and most crowd-pleasing cocktails I serve in the summer. Vodka and homemade lemonade over ice—it’s simple, sharp, and always refreshing.
Special Recipe Tip: Stir in a few crushed basil leaves for a subtle herbal finish.
5. Strawberry Vodka Smash
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 6 mins
Muddled strawberries, lemon juice, vodka, and a splash of soda water make this fruity drink a winner. It’s bright, slightly fizzy, and perfect for warm evenings.
Special Recipe Tip: Use a bit of honey syrup instead of simple syrup for extra depth and a smooth finish.
6. Blueberry Vodka Fizz
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 5 mins
I love combining blueberry syrup with vodka, lemon juice, and soda water to create this refreshing, sweet-tart cocktail. It’s beautiful in color and super refreshing.
Special Recipe Tip: Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the shaker to elevate the freshness.
7. Vodka Sunrise
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 4 mins
This twist on the classic Tequila Sunrise uses vodka instead, with orange juice and grenadine. It’s sweet, colorful, and perfect for brunch or casual hangouts.
Special Recipe Tip: Pour the grenadine slowly down the side of the glass to create that beautiful layered effect.
8. Cucumber Vodka Tonic
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 3 mins
This one’s light and super crisp—just vodka, tonic water, and fresh cucumber slices. I often sip this on the porch in the evening—it’s easy and incredibly cooling.
Special Recipe Tip: Let the cucumber slices sit in the vodka for 10 minutes before adding tonic for a deeper flavor.
9. Pineapple Vodka Punch
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 5 mins
Pineapple juice, vodka, and a splash of lime juice come together for this tropical-inspired cocktail. It’s juicy, sweet, and great for making in pitchers for summer get-togethers.
Special Recipe Tip: Add a dash of coconut water for a smooth island twist.
10. Black Cherry Vodka Soda
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 3 mins
A mix of black cherry vodka, soda water, and a splash of lime makes a crisp, slightly fruity cocktail that’s low-effort but still tastes great.
Special Recipe Tip: Freeze black cherries and use them as ice cubes and garnish in one.
11. Grapefruit Rosemary Vodka Spritz
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 5 mins
Fresh grapefruit juice, vodka, soda water, and a sprig of rosemary make this drink bold, refreshing, and just a little herbal. I love serving this one when I want something a little more sophisticated.
Special Recipe Tip: Roll the rosemary sprig between your hands before adding to release the oils.
12. Frozen Berry Vodka Slush
Type: Vodka | Prep Time: 7 mins
Blend vodka with mixed frozen berries, lemon juice, and ice for a cold, fruity drink that’s great on extra hot days. It’s basically a grown-up slushie.
Special Recipe Tip: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the blender for a smoother, slightly creamy texture.
