There’s something incredibly satisfying about mixing up your own energy drink—especially when you know exactly what’s going into it. No mystery ingredients, no neon colors, just simple things from your pantry or fridge that work withyour body, not against it.
Whether you’re heading out on a long hike, fueling a teenager’s summer training schedule, or just spending the afternoon on the water, hydration is key. But in the heat of summer, plain water doesn’t always cut it. That’s where homemade electrolyte drinks come in: quick to make, easy to sip, and packed with natural ingredients to help you recover and keep going.
Here are three of our favorite DIY "Gatorade" recipes—clean, nourishing, and made for real-life summer movement.
Lemon Lime Lift
Crisp, citrusy, and endlessly refreshing. This one’s perfect for days that start with movement and end in sunshine. A go-to for morning workouts, teen training sessions, or anytime you need a clean energy boost.
Ingredients:
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10 oz coconut water
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2 oz lemon juice
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2 oz lime juice
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1 oz orange juice
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1 oz Manuka or Kanuka honey
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Pinch of sea salt
To make: Shake or stir well until the honey dissolves. Serve over ice or chill for on-the-go hydration. This one’s like liquid clarity—bright and deeply restorative.
Golden Hour Orange
This blend is softer, sweeter, and made for late-day recovery—when you’ve been swimming, biking, or just basking in the heat. The optional splash of pomegranate adds a dreamy blush and a hint of depth.
Ingredients:
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6 oz coconut water
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8 oz orange juice
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2 oz lemon juice
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1 oz Manuka or Kanuka honey
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Pinch of sea salt
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Optional: ½ oz pomegranate juice (for color and subtle tartness)
To make: Combine all ingredients in a jar, waterbottle or pitcher and stir until fully blended. Best served cold with a slice of orange and your feet up somewhere shady.
Real Fruit Punch
Bold, vibrant, and loaded with tart, polyphenol-rich fruits, this one tastes like summer camp for grown-ups. Perfect for heavy hitters—hot hikes, HIIT sessions, or anytime you're pushing your limits.
Ingredients:
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6 oz coconut water
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3 oz tart cherry juice
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2 oz pineapple juice
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2 oz cranberry juice
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1 oz lemon juice
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1 oz Manuka or Kanuka honey
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Pinch of sea salt
To make: Stir together and strain if desired. Pour into your favorite reusable bottle and go. This one’s sweet-tart, earthy, and deeply replenishing.
Shop the hero ingredient here:
BeeNZ Mānuka Honey
Kānuka Honey vs Mānuka Honey
Kānuka and Mānuka may sound alike, but their flavors tell different stories. Mānuka is bold and mineral in taste—great with roasted veggies or sharp cheeses, but can be a bit overpowering in recipes. Kānuka, on the other hand, is gentle and floral, with soft sweet notes that blend beautifully. In something like a strawberry salsa, Kānuka honey brings out the sweetness in the strawberries and ties everything together in one smooth, balanced bite.
Got a favorite way to incorporate BeeNZ in your favorite summer recipes?
Tag us on Instagram @beenz.honey — we’d love to share your creations!
