Jimmy Buffett Chose This Simple Drink Over Margaritas

When you think of Jimmy Buffett, images of sandy beaches, strumming guitars, and a carefree island vibe instantly come to mind. Buffett wasn't just a musician; He was a cultural phenomenon, a bestselling author, and an passionate philanthropist whose love for environmental and animal activism ran as deep as the Caribbean Sea. Best known for the hit "Margaritaville," Buffett inspired millions to embrace wanderlust and the simple pleasures of life. Beyond his musical impact, Buffett left a major legacy in the food world. As the creative force behind the Margaritaville brand, you'd naturally expect his go-to cocktail to be the margarita. And while we can certainly confirm Buffett enjoyed his fair share of margaritas, it may not have been his favorite drink. During a 2017 interview with Men's Journal, the tropical troubadour let slip that his favorite alcoholic refreshment wasn't the tangy, tequila-based classic at all.

Instead, Buffett opted for a drink that perfectly mirrored his laid-back, island spirit, and the recipe couldn't be simpler: Caribbean rum, coconut water (the clear, electrolyte-rich nectar available at most grocery stores, not the overly sweet Coco Lopez, as Buffett clarified), a fresh lime wedge, and plenty of ice. "No bubbles, lots of electrolytes, and no hangover — if you don't drink a gallon," Buffett told Men's Journal. "How do you think all those folks survive Carnival in Trinidad for two weeks?" As someone who was likely the star of every party he attended, it's only natural that he preferred this understated yet revitalizing cocktail.

The reason Jimmy Buffett's go-to cocktail just makes sense when the mercury rises lies in the humble coconut water. Packed with electrolytes, coconut water is a natural hydrator that replenishes essential minerals lost during a day spent soaking up the sun. Coconut water helps strengthen the immune system, improves bone health, and is said to relieve stress and anxiety due to its high levels of potassium and magnesium — the list of benefits goes on. It makes it the perfect mixer when alcohol's dehydrating and depleting effects come into play. You can combine coconut water with Caribbean rum, a spirit known for its rich molasses undertones and a flavor profile that varies by region, like Bacardi, one of the most popular brands, which has hints of vanilla, almonds, and lime. For an innovative boost, try adding coconut water ice cubes to your rum. 

When you fuse these layered notes with the clean, slightly nutty taste of coconut water and the zesty kick of fresh lime juice, you get a simple yet multi-dimensional cocktail. The benefits of coconut water may seem a bit counterintuitive when combined with alcohol, but opting for a coconut water mixer is certainly a smarter choice than some of the overly sugary margarita mixes out there. This drink is more than a thirst quencher; It's an ode to the Margaritaville icon's free spirit. Whether you're lounging by the pool or celebrating life's little moments, this cocktail offers a slice of the Caribbean paradise that Jimmy Buffett was so lovingly inspired by.