Whether you’re sipping a classic Piña Colada in Old San Juan or cooling down with a refreshing coconut water straight from the shell, every drink tells a story of culture, history, and tropical indulgence.

From world-renowned cocktails to homemade, family-secret brews, Puerto Rican drinks offer a taste of the island’s rich heritage. If you’re visiting or simply looking to bring a piece of Puerto Rico into your home, these iconic beverages will take you on a journey of bold, exotic flavors. Let’s dive into the most famous Puerto Rican drinks, their origins, and how you can enjoy them to the fullest.

1. Piña Colada – The King of Puerto Rican Cocktails

You haven’t truly experienced Puerto Rico until you’ve had a Piña Colada in its birthplace. This creamy, tropical cocktail, a mix of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, is the island’s most famous export in the world of drinks.

The Story Behind the Piña Colada

Invented in 1954 at the Caribe Hilton Hotel by bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero, the Piña Colada quickly became a symbol of Caribbean leisure. In 1978, Puerto Rico even declared it the official national drink!

How to Make It Like a Local

  • 2 oz white Puerto Rican rum (Bacardi or Don Q)
  • 3 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 oz coconut cream (Coco López is the go-to brand)
  • 1 cup crushed ice
  • Blend until smooth and serve in a chilled glass with a pineapple wedge and cherry.

2. Coquito – Puerto Rico’s Holiday Eggnog

Christmas in Puerto Rico isn’t complete without Coquito. This rich, spiced coconut rum drink is the island’s answer to eggnog—but better. It’s smoother, more tropical, and packs a serious punch.

What Makes Coquito Special?

Coquito (which means “little coconut”) is a creamy, spiced drink made with coconut milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, rum, vanilla, and cinnamon. Unlike eggnog, it typically doesn’t include eggs, though some families add them for extra richness.

Traditional Coquito Recipe

  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can evaporated milk
  • 1 ½ cups Puerto Rican rum (Don Q, Bacardí, or Ron del Barrilito)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • Blend ingredients, chill, and serve cold in small glasses.

3. Medalla Light – The Beer of Puerto Rico

If you want to drink like a local, grab a Medalla Light. This crisp, refreshing golden lager is the pride of Puerto Rican beer culture and is found in almost every bar, bodega, and beachside kiosk.

Why Medalla Light?

  • Light yet flavorful: Perfect for the island’s warm climate.
  • Lower alcohol content (4.2%): Ideal for long beach days without knocking you out.
  • Affordable and widely available: You’ll see it everywhere, from local parties to upscale bars.

4. Chichaíto – Puerto Rico’s Favorite Shot

Looking for something quick and strong? Chichaíto is a classic Puerto Rican shot made of white rum and anise-flavored liqueur (like anisette). It’s sweet, fiery, and packs a licorice-like punch.

Variations of Chichaíto

  • Traditional: White rum + anise liqueur.
  • Coconut Chichaíto: White rum + coconut cream.
  • Almond Chichaíto: White rum + amaretto.

5. Ron Caña – Puerto Rico’s Moonshine

For the adventurous drinker, Ron Caña is Puerto Rico’s version of homemade moonshine. This raw, unaged sugarcane rum is typically distilled in small batches and has a high alcohol content (50–60% ABV).

Where to Find It

  • Not available in mainstream liquor stores. Instead, look for it in small roadside stands or from locals who distill it themselves.
  • Often mixed with fruit juices or used in home remedies.

6. Pitorro – Puerto Rican Rum with a Kick

Even stronger than Ron Caña, Pitorro is Puerto Rico’s legendary underground rum. It’s traditionally homemade and aged with fruits, spices, and sometimes even coffee or chocolate.

How Pitorro Is Enjoyed

  • Often gifted during the holidays in sealed jars.
  • Served straight or mixed with juices for a smoother experience.
  • Aged in barrels for a more refined taste.

7. Limber – Puerto Rico’s Frozen Delight

Not all iconic Puerto Rican drinks contain alcohol! Limber is a frozen, fruit-based treat that comes in small cups and is enjoyed like a popsicle. It’s perfect for cooling down in the tropical heat.

Popular Flavors

  • Coconut
  • Mango
  • Pineapple
  • Passionfruit
  • Tamarind

Where to Find It: Local neighborhoods, street vendors, and home kitchens.

8. Malta India – Puerto Rico’s Non-Alcoholic Brew

For something completely different, try Malta India. This non-alcoholic malt beverage has a rich, sweet, and slightly caramelized flavor. It’s a favorite among locals who grew up drinking it as a midday energy boost.

Why People Love It

  • It’s a unique alternative to soda.
  • It pairs well with sandwiches and pastries.
  • Some mix it with condensed milk for an even sweeter experience.

9. Café Puertorriqueño – Puerto Rican Coffee

Puerto Rico is known for its strong, aromatic coffee, and locals take it seriously. Coffee farms in the mountains of Adjuntas, Yauco, and Maricao produce some of the best beans in the Caribbean.

Best Ways to Enjoy Puerto Rican Coffee

  • Café con Leche: Espresso with steamed milk.
  • Cortadito: Espresso with a splash of milk.
  • Café Negro: Straight black coffee.

Final Thoughts: Drink Like a Local in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican drinks are as diverse as the island itself, blending tropical flavors, rich traditions, and a touch of local ingenuity. Whether you’re indulging in a Piña Colada by the beach, enjoying a Chichaíto at a bar, or cooling down with a Limber in the summer heat, every sip connects you to the island’s culture.

Next time you’re in Puerto Rico—or just craving its flavors at home—try one of these iconic drinks. They capture the essence of the island in every drop! Cheers!