If you love Sonic Ocean Water, you can make the same bright blue, coconut-flavored drink at home with just five simple ingredients. This easy copycat recipe recreates the tropical, fizzy treat — perfect for summer, kid-friendly parties, or a refreshing mocktail any time.
My family adores the Sonic version, but since we don’t live near a location, I developed this homemade version that tastes just like the original. It’s quick to prepare, looks festive, and lets us enjoy the flavor at home whenever we want.
This recipe is similar in simplicity to other easy copycat drinks. It produces a light, bubbly coconut flavor paired with the citrus of a lemon-lime soda, and the blue color gives it that iconic ocean look. You can serve it plain for kids, garnish it with gummy sharks or Swedish fish for a whimsical touch, or spike it for adults by adding a splash of coconut rum.
Ingredients
You will need the following:
- Lemon-lime soda – Sprite, 7UP, or a similar clear lemon-lime soda. Sonic uses Sprite if you want the most authentic flavor.
- Coconut extract – a small amount adds the coconut flavor without changing the texture.
- Blue food coloring – optional for color, but necessary if you want the signature bright blue appearance.
- Sugar – used to make a simple syrup that blends smoothly into the soda.
- Gummy candies (optional) – shark gummies or Swedish Fish for garnish and fun presentation.
Recipe Tips and Storage
Party punch: This recipe scales up easily—double or triple the quantities and serve in a large pitcher or punch bowl for gatherings. It’s an attractive, alcohol-free option that kids love.
For adults: To make a boozy version, add a shot or two of coconut rum to each serving instead of (or in addition to) the coconut extract. Stir gently so you don’t lose too much carbonation.
Make ahead: Because the drink is carbonated, it’s best enjoyed immediately after assembling. You can prepare the simple syrup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When you’re ready to serve, combine the syrup with the soda, extract, and coloring.
Leftovers: If you have any leftover ocean water, try freezing it into popsicles for a fun frozen treat.
FAQ
Ocean Water is a bright blue, carbonated beverage with a coconut flavor that is popular at the fast-food chain Sonic.
The homemade version is made with lemon-lime soda, a simple syrup (sugar and water), coconut extract, and blue food coloring.
It tastes like a bubbly, refreshing coconut and citrus drink—light and tropical with a sweet soda finish.
More kid-friendly drink recipes
- Watermelon Lemonade
- Grinch Punch
- Strawberry Banana Smoothie
- Vanilla Frappe
Ocean Water Recipe
Servings: 2 | Prep: 5 minutes | Total: 5 minutes
Ingredients (for 2 servings)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 16 ounces lemon-lime soda (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
- 3–4 drops blue food coloring (adjust to desired color)
- Shark gummies or Swedish Fish, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Make a simple syrup: combine the water and sugar in a small microwave-safe bowl and heat about 45 seconds, or until the sugar dissolves. Stir well and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
- In a pitcher, mix the cooled simple syrup with the lemon-lime soda, coconut extract, and blue food coloring. Stir gently to combine without losing too much carbonation.
- Pour over ice and add shark gummies or Swedish Fish for a playful garnish, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust the coconut extract to taste; start with a small amount and add more if you prefer a stronger coconut note. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the simple syrup slightly or use diet soda.
Nutrition
Estimated calories will vary depending on the soda and the amount of sugar used. A rough estimate for the full recipe is around 265 kcal, divided between servings.
