The lime in the coconut drink is a tropical favourite that blends creamy coconut milk, tangy lime juice, and smooth rum for a refreshingly sweet cocktail you can enjoy any time of year. This island-style sipper brings the perfect mix of bright citrus and rich coconut flavour, pure paradise in a glass.
At RecipesLace, we love recipes that feel like mini-vacations. I tested this coconut lime rum cocktail with both canned coconut milk and coconut cream to get that luscious texture without being too heavy. Updated & Retested: October 2025.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Whether you call it a lime and coconut cocktail, a lime in da coconut recipe, or simply your new favourite beach drink, this easy coconut milk and lime drink takes just 5 minutes to shake together, no blender, no fuss, just pure tropical refreshment.
A lime in the coconut drink is a creamy tropical cocktail made with lime juice, coconut milk, and rum shaken over ice for a smooth, refreshing, and citrusy drink.
What Is Lime in the Coconut Drink?
A lime in the coconut drink is a creamy tropical cocktail made by mixing fresh lime juice, coconut milk or cream, rum, and a touch of sweetener, then shaking it with ice until frothy.
According to Healthline, coconut milk contains healthy fats called MCTs that give this cocktail its signature richness while pairing beautifully with the bright acidity of lime. This balance creates a refreshing and indulgent sip in one.
Whether served as a lime in a da coconut cocktail recipe or a coconut milk and lime mocktail, it delivers a smooth, beachy flavour reminiscent of a piña colada but with a tangy twist.
Haven’t made the original version yet?
Start with our Simple Lime and Coconut Cocktail to Beat the Heat, the classic recipe, before exploring these creative variations.
Why You’ll Love It
- Fast & Weeknight-Friendly: Ready in under 5 minutes, shake, pour, and sip.
- Crowd-Pleaser Flavour: The perfect blend of zesty lime and creamy coconut that everyone loves.
- Pantry Ingredients: You only need coconut milk, lime, rum, and a bit of sweetener, all easy to find.
- Easy Substitutions (GF/DF): Use coconut cream for extra richness or swap rum for sparkling water to make it alcohol-free.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Mix the base in advance and refrigerate; shake with ice just before serving.
- Kid-Approved / Party-Ready: Create a mocktail version by skipping the rum, still tropical, still delicious!
This lime and coconut cocktail is one of those rare recipes that fit every mood, from pool parties to cozy nights in.
Ingredients (+ Substitutions)
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this creamy lime in the coconut drink; most are pantry staples. The mix of coconut milk, lime juice, and rum gives it that signature tropical balance of tangy and smooth. Best of all, it’s easy to adapt for any diet or taste.
| Ingredient | Substitution / Diet Note |
|---|---|
| Coconut milk | Use light coconut milk for fewer calories or coconut cream for a thicker, dessert-like texture. |
| Fresh lime juice | Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh-squeezed gives the brightest, most vibrant flavour. |
| White rum | Swap dark rum for a richer taste, or skip entirely for a refreshing mocktail. |
| Simple syrup or honey | Use agave or stevia syrup for a lower-sugar version. |
| Ice cubes | Crushed ice creates a frothy texture, while large cubes keep your drink colder longer. |
| Lime slices or zest | An optional garnish adds colour and aroma. |
| Shredded coconut or mint | Optional garnish for a pretty, tropical finish. |
Diet Notes:
This coconut lime rum cocktail is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. To make it lighter, use low-fat coconut milk or add a splash of sparkling water instead of syrup.
For a fun twist, try pairing it with piña colada or no-bake lemon icebox pie from RecipesLace for the ultimate tropical combo.
Equipment
Making this lime in the coconut drink doesn’t require any fancy tools, just a few basics you likely already have in your kitchen. Keeping your setup simple helps the ingredients shine and makes cleanup a breeze.
You’ll need:
- Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid) to mix and froth the drink.
- Jigger or measuring cup — for accurate pours of lime juice, rum, and syrup.
- Citrus juicer — ensures maximum lime flavour without bitterness.
- Strainer — keeps out pulp or ice shards for a smoother pour.
- Serving glasses — highball or coupe glasses both work beautifully.
- Small plate or dish — for rimming with shredded coconut or sugar (optional but fun).
Tip: Chill your glassware in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving for an extra-refreshing experience.
How to Make Lime in the Coconut Drink (Step-by-Step)
A quick, creamy lime in the coconut drink: fresh lime juice, coconut milk, white rum, and a touch of sweetener shaken with ice until frothy. Tropical, refreshing, and ready in under 5 minutes. Includes an easy mocktail option.
Total Time: 5 minutes
1: Add ingredients to a shaker
Combine coconut milk, fresh lime juice, white rum, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Tip: Always use fresh lime juice; it brightens the flavour and prevents bitterness.
2: Shake until frothy
Seal tightly and shake for 15–20 seconds until cold and creamy.
Note: Don’t over-shake; too much agitation can cause the coconut milk to separate.
3: Strain into glasses
Pour into chilled glasses filled with ice.
Tip: For a mocktail, skip the rum and top with sparkling water or ginger ale.
4: Garnish and serve
Add a lime wheel, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, or a mint sprig for a tropical finish.
Note: Rim the glass with toasted coconut for an island-style presentation.
Estimated Cost: 3 USD
Supply:
- Coconut milk (full-fat or light) – 6 oz
- Fresh lime juice – 2 oz
- White rum – 4 oz (omit for mocktail)
- Simple syrup or agave – 1–2 oz (to taste)
- Ice cubes – 2 cups
- Lime wheel (garnish)
- Shredded coconut or mint (optional)
Tools:
- Cocktail shaker (or mason jar with lid)
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Citrus juicer
- Hawthorne strainer or fine-mesh strainer
- Highball or coupe glasses (chilled)
- Small plate for rimming (optional)
Materials: Granulated sugar or toasted coconut for rim (optional) Sparkling water or ginger ale (for mocktail/lighten) Crushed ice (for extra-frothy texture)
Common Mistakes + Quick Fixes
- Curdled texture? Shake gently and avoid using canned lime concentrate.
- Too strong? Add crushed ice or splash in pineapple juice.
- Too sweet? Balance with a bit more lime juice.
Try serving it with no-bake lemon icebox pie or easy banana bread latte, both pair beautifully with this coconut lime rum creation.
Variations & Serving Ideas
This lime in the coconut drink is endlessly customizable, from frozen party punch to light mocktail. Try these tasty twists to make it your own:
🌴 Variations
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a smooth, slushy texture ideal for hot summer days.
- Mocktail Twist: Omit the rum and add sparkling water or coconut water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
- Extra-Creamy: Use full-fat coconut milk or add a splash of coconut cream for a rich dessert-style version.
- Tropical Fruit Upgrade: Blend in pineapple or mango chunks for a fruity boost.
- Spicy Lime Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a jalapeño slice for a sweet-heat contrast.
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace simple syrup with a touch of stevia or monk fruit.
🍹 Serving Ideas
Serve this lime and coconut cocktail chilled in coupe or highball glasses with a sugar or toasted-coconut rim. For gatherings, make a large batch and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Just shake again before pouring.
Pair it with light desserts like no-bake lemon icebox pie or creamy snacks like easy banana bread latte for a full tropical menu from RecipesLace.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead
Because this lime in the coconut drink contains fresh lime juice and coconut milk, it’s best served immediately, but you can still prep ahead for parties or quick enjoyment.
Fridge: Store the mixed base (without ice) in a sealed jar for up to 2 days. Shake well before serving, as coconut milk may separate.
Freezer: Freeze the base mixture in an ice cube tray for up to 1 month. Blend with fresh lime juice when ready to serve.
Reheat: Not applicable, serve cold or blended only.
Lime in the Coconut Drink Variations You Need to Try
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail shaker Or a mason jar with a tight lid
- 1 Citrus juicer For fresh lime juice
- 1 Measuring jigger or small cup Accurate portions
- 1 Fine strainer Optional, for smoother pour
- 1 Glasses Chilled coupe or highball glasses
- 1 Small plate For sugar or coconut rim (optional)
Ingredients
- 6 oz coconut milk full-fat or light
- 2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz white rum omit for mocktail
- 1 –2 oz simple syrup or agave to taste
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Lime wheels and shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions
- Add coconut milk, lime juice, rum, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Tip: Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until chilled and frothy.
- Strain into chilled glasses filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with lime wheels, mint sprigs, or a coconut rim.
- Serve immediately — sip and enjoy your tropical escape!
Notes
- For a mocktail version, replace rum with sparkling water or coconut water.
- For a frozen version, blend all ingredients with ice until smooth.
- Store unused mixture (without ice) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
“I tested this lime in the coconut drink using both light and full-fat coconut milk — full-fat gave the creamiest texture. A quick 10-second shake before serving keeps it perfectly blended.”
Mini Q&A
Can you freeze lime in the coconut drink?
Yes, up to 1 month in airtight containers or ice cube trays. Blend cubes for a frozen cocktail version.
What’s the best way to reheat or refresh it?
No heating needed, simply shake again with fresh ice or blend frozen cubes until smooth.
FAQs
What is in a lime and coconut drink?
It’s made with coconut milk, lime juice, rum, and simple syrup, shaken with ice until frothy and smooth.
What drink puts the lime in the coconut?
The famous line comes from Harry Nilsson’s 1971 song “Coconut,” which inspired this creamy, tropical cocktail.
What does lime do to coconut water or milk?
Lime adds acidity that brightens flavour, but can slightly curdle coconut milk. Shake gently and serve immediately for the best texture.
What is the coconut and lime drink on Royal Caribbean?
It’s a variation of this lime in the coconut cocktail, often blended with coconut cream and pineapple juice for a sweeter cruise-style drink.
What is the best drink in the morning for high blood pressure?
Skip the rum and try a mocktail version: lime juice, coconut water, and a splash of ginger are refreshing and heart-friendly (per Healthline).
Who made Lime in the Coconut?
The drink takes its name from the song by Harry Nilsson, but bartenders worldwide have since adapted it into countless tropical variations.
Why did my coconut milk curdle?
Over-shaking or using bottled lime juice can cause separation. Use fresh lime and shake lightly for a silky texture.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Replace rum with sparkling water or coconut water for a creamy, refreshing non-alcoholic coconut lime drink.
Nutrition (With Disclaimer)
Below are the approximate nutrition facts per serving for this lime in the coconut drink (made with coconut milk, rum, and simple syrup).
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
| Calcium | 2% DV |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates based on typical ingredients and may vary by brand or portion size. For specific dietary concerns, please consult the USDA FoodData Central or your nutrition professional.
Read more behind-the-scenes recipe tests and kitchen stories from RecipesLace on Medium, where we share pro tips and creative spins on classic recipes.
According to USDA FoodData Central, coconut milk is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which give this cocktail its creamy texture
Recipe Cost
This lime in the coconut drink is budget-friendly and uses simple, everyday ingredients. On average, it costs around $2.50–$3.00 per serving or $5–$6 total for two drinks.
The price varies depending on the rum brand and whether you use premium coconut milk or fresh limes versus bottled juice. Using store-brand ingredients keeps it affordable, while upgrading to organic or dark rum raises the cost slightly.
Reviews & Reader Tips
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“So creamy and tropical! I made the mocktail version with sparkling water, and my kids loved it.”Tina R.
“Used coconut cream instead of milk for extra richness, like a dessert in a glass!” Marco D.
“Added pineapple juice and a sugar rim perfection for summer parties.” Lena B.
💬 Share Your Twist!
Did you make this lime in the coconut drink? Drop your star rating and tell us how you customised it!
Your feedback helps us keep RecipesLace recipes tested, retested, and improved for the next tropical craving.
Conclusion
This lime in the coconut drink is the perfect mix of creamy, citrusy, and refreshing, a true tropical escape in every sip. Whether you make it with rum or as a coconut lime mocktail, it’s always a crowd favourite for any season.
Save this recipe on Pinterest to keep it handy for your next summer party or cozy night in. And when you’re ready to explore more tropical flavours, try our no-bake lemon icebox pie or banana bread latte, both pair beautifully with this creamy coconut lime cocktail.
Follow RecipesLace on Pinterest (pinterest.com/recipeslace) for more tested tropical drinks, quick desserts, and fresh flavour ideas straight from our kitchen.
Cheers to sunshine in a glass from all of us at RecipesLace, where every recipe is tested, retested, and made to impress.
