With its signature ocean-blue hue and tropical flavor combo, the Blue Hawaii has been turning heads (and raising glasses) since 1957, when it was first mixed at Honolulu’s Kaiser Hawaiian Village. Bartender Harry Yee was tasked with showcasing Bols Blue Curaçao, and the result was a citrusy, colorful cocktail that quickly became a staple of sunny sipping. 

Don’t confuse it with the creamier Blue Hawaiian, a later riff that calls for crème de coconut. This version keeps things light, refreshing and fruit-forward. Vodka and rum build the base, while pineapple and blue curaçao deliver the tropical notes and signature color. 

While the original recipe uses sweet-and-sour mix, we recommend swapping in fresh lime juice and simple syrup for a brighter, cleaner flavor. One shake, and it's aloha hour wherever you are. Give it a try and let us know what you think.

(Originally published 8/22/25)