A recent survey by Hilton Hotels & Resorts has uncovered that Piña Coladas are more than just a tropical drink—they’re a passport to a perpetual vacation mindset. Of the Americans surveyed, 88% have tried a Piña Colada, with 87% envisioning themselves by the water, a tropical drink in hand, when they think of a relaxing vacation. Notably, 60% of respondents say the Piña Colada transports them to a holiday state of mind, with more than a third even counting it as part of their daily fruit intake while on holiday.
The origins of this beloved cocktail trace back to 1954 at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was there that bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero perfected the now-iconic blend of pineapple and coconut, coining the name “Piña Colada.” Today, Caribe Hilton continues to serve its classic recipe to more than 53,000 guests each year.
READ MORE: Four Seasons Hotel Nashville Unveils Exclusive In-House Recording Studio Experience
“Known for exceptional hospitality and innovations like the Piña Colada, Hilton constantly evolves to meet the needs of modern travelers,” said Leonard Gooz, Hilton Hotels & Resorts’ brand leader. “Our properties provide the perfect setting for guests to fully immerse themselves in their stay, be it in a bustling city or a serene destination resort, embodying the endless vacation mindset worldwide.”
Survey insights reveal that 65% of respondents are happy to enjoy a tropical drink any time of day. Among parents, a significant 93% associate a relaxing vacation with having a tropical drink in hand. Moreover, 82% of participants are reminded of specific vacations when they enjoy particular drinks, with Piña Coladas standing out as a favorite.
Hilton Hotels & Resorts offers numerous opportunities to embrace the Piña Colada mindset across its 600+ locations on six continents. Highlights include:
- Hilton Rose Hall, Jamaica: Featuring Piña Coladas made with local rum at the swim-up bar in Sugar Mill Falls waterpark.
- Select Hilton Hotels & Resorts in the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Europe: Guests can enjoy the classic Piña Colada along with award-winning variations, including a zero-waste and alcohol-free version. The London Hilton on Park Lane is a notable participant.
- Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa: Home to the first cocktail lab in the Maldives, where the Aura Pool Bar & Cocktail Lab serves traditional Piña Coladas while guests enjoy stunning ocean sunsets.
- Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort: Offers both spirited and alcohol-free Piña Coladas, perfect for lounging poolside or watching children play in the Family Zone.
Adam Crocini, Hilton’s senior vice president and global head of Food and Beverage Brands, emphasized Hilton’s role in cocktail innovation, saying, “Our storied history with the Piña Colada exemplifies Hilton’s pioneering spirit in food and beverage. We continuously modernize the original recipe with local ingredients and regional flavors, maintaining our industry leadership.”
For more about Hilton Hotels & Resorts, including Piña Colada recipes and tips, visit Hilton Stories.
READ MORE: Marriott Launches Business Access Program for SMEs
