National Piña Colada Day: The Story Behind Trader Vic’s Bahia
Every July 10, cocktail lovers celebrate National Piña Colada Day—and one of the world’s most recognizable tropical drinks.
With its refreshing combination of rum, pineapple, and coconut, the Piña Colada has become synonymous with warm weather, island escapes, and drinking with your toes in the sand. At Trader Vic’s, this celebrated cocktail inspired a tropical classic of our own: the Bahia.
The Birth of the Piña Colada
The story begins in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1954.
Ramón “Monchito” Marrero, a bartender at the Caribe Hilton, was challenged to create a signature welcome drink for the hotel’s guests. He spent approximately three months mixing, tasting, and refining different combinations until he found the right balance.
His creation blended rum, coconut cream, heavy cream, pineapple juice, and crushed ice. The Piña Colada was born and would eventually become one of the world’s most famous tropical cocktails.
Why Trader Vic’s Calls It the Bahia
Trader Vic’s created its own interpretation of the Piña Colada, featuring the familiar tropical flavors of rum, coconut, and pineapple—but without the addition of heavy cream.
Because it was not prepared exactly like the original Piña Colada, it needed a name of its own.
The cocktail became known as the Bahia, a name inspired by Bahía de San Juan near the celebrated birthplace of the Piña Colada. The result is a refreshing Trader Vic’s interpretation of an enduring island classic.
Celebrate Piña Colada Day with Trader Vic’s
Whether you prefer the classic Piña Colada or the Trader Vic’s Bahia, July 10 is the perfect occasion to enjoy the timeless combination of rum, pineapple, and coconut.
Bring a taste of the tropics home with Trader Vic’s Piña Colada Mix or Trader Vic’s Koko Kreme Syrup, or visit a Trader Vic’s location to celebrate National Piña Colada Day with us.
Here’s to tropical cocktails, legendary bartenders, and drinks that transport you someplace warmer.
Please enjoy responsibly.
