Refreshing and Hydrating Beverages to Sip this Summer (Instead of Alcohol)
There’s something about pool, or oceanside lounging that practically begs for a drink in hand, but that drink doesn’t have to be boozy to feel luxurious. In fact, skipping the alcohol can mean better hydration, clearer skin, fewer headaches, and waking up the next day feeling refreshed instead of wrecked.
Keep your poolside vibes high and your blood sugar stable this summer with these fun, flavourful, and functional beverage ideas that taste like vacation— minus the hangover.
1. Cucumber Mint Sparkler
Cool, crisp, and ultra-hydrating. Cucumber is rich in electrolytes, while mint soothes digestion.
How to make it:
Muddle fresh cucumber slices and mint leaves in a glass. Add sparkling water (I recommend a sparkling spring or mineral water for even better hydration), a squeeze of lime, and ice. Optional: a pinch of sea salt for even more added minerals and a margarita feel.
2. Hibiscus Iced Tea with Citrus
Tart, ruby-red hibiscus is not only beautiful, it's full of antioxidants and known to support blood pressure and heart health.
How to make it:
Brew hibiscus tea, chill it, and serve over ice with slices of orange or lemon. Sweeten lightly with honey or a splash of orange juice if needed.
3. Coconut Water Mojito (Mocktail)
Think of this as your tropical hydration station. Coconut water is loaded with potassium and naturally replenishing electrolytes.
How to make it:
Mix coconut water with fresh lime juice, muddled mint, and ice. Garnish with lime wedges and add sparkling water if you want a fizzy twist.
4. Watermelon Basil Slush
Hydrating, cooling, and packed with vitamin C, watermelon is basically summer in fruit form.
How to make it:
Blend chilled watermelon cubes with a few basil leaves, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately for a frosty slush, or strain if you prefer it juice-style. You can also freeze some watermelon cubes to blend in for an even slushier experience.
5. Aloe Vera Lemonade
Aloe isn’t just for sunburns. Internally, it’s soothing for the gut and skin. This is lemonade with a naturopathic upgrade.
How to make it:
Combine water, lemon juice, a splash of aloe vera juice (I recommend buying this as there are part of the aloe plant that aren’t edible), and a bit of maple syrup or honey. Serve cold over ice with a sprig of rosemary.
6. Iced Green Tea with Pineapple
Green tea gives a gentle lift (hello, antioxidants and L-theanine) while pineapple brings tropical sweetness and digestive enzymes.
How to make it:
Brew green tea, chill, and mix with a bit of pineapple juice. Serve over ice with a pineapple wedge.
7. DIY Spa Water
Sometimes all you need is a big glass pitcher filled with cold water, fruit, and herbs.
Try combos like:
Strawberry + basil
Lemon + rosemary
Orange + ginger
Blueberry + lavender
It’s easy, pretty, and encourages you to sip all day long.
Why Skip the Alcohol?
Aside from the obvious dehydration (not ideal when you’re basking in the sun), alcohol can mess with your blood sugar, irritate your gut, impair sleep, and even increase sun sensitivity.
Swapping in these functional, feel-good drinks lets you stay cool, clear, and connected to your body, no buzz required.
With the right ingredients, your poolside drink can be just as festive, even more hydrating, and way better for your body.
Now go grab your glass, kick back, and cheers to staying cool the nourishing way.