The days are getting longer and hotter, which means it's time for swimming pools, swimsuits and suntan lotion. It's also time for crushing heat waves, pulling the blinds shut and cranking up the A/C. When the rising thermometer sends you running to the basement to cool down, the best thing to do is break out the cold drinks.

Whether you mix in some flavored ice cubes and sit on the porch or float in the pool next to your homemade cooler, these drinks will bring the party wherever you go this summer.

Like the summer, all these drinks are bright and cheery. After all, nothing makes me happier than an ice cold cocktail!

1. Tequila Sunset

We can't all afford to take a trip south of the border and lounge in a cantina, but anyone can make this refreshing mixed drink that combines lime, pineapple juice and peach schnapps with tequila.

2. White Whine Sangria

This is sunshine in a glass: orange and pineapple juice with white whine and rum splashed in. If you're relaxing in the backyard without one of these in your hand, is it even summer?

3. Hard Lemonade Kiwi Coolers

This drink is served in an orange peel with a citrus fruit garnish, and that's not even the best part. The blend of honey, vodka and kiwi really hits the spot at lunchtime (or dinner or breakfast, we won't judge).

4. Rainbow Sangria

When you're hosting a get-together and need to remind your friends who's the neighborhood's #1 host, this intricate drink won't leave any doubt in their mind. Just don't get carried away and eat all the fruit before you serve them up!

Click the next page for 5 more summer drink ideas, including the ice cream float margarita!

5. Southern Strawberry Tea

This big ol' country of ours is a funny place. If you ask for sweet tea anywhere other than the south, your waiter is liable to bring you something very different from what you expect. If you grew up drinking your grandma's sweet tea this sweet strawberry version will be very familiar. For best results, make sure to use black tea bags, and be generous with the sugar!

6. Smirnoff Skittles Coolers

This is an adult drink with a childish twist that's great for parties. The colorful mix looks as good as the drink tastes, and all you need are 2 ingredients!

7. Homemade Lemon Ginger Gatorade

The morning after enjoying some Smirnoff Skittles Coolers, when your pounding head is reminding you that you're not as young as you think you are, recoup with this 100% natural, homemade version of your favorite sports drink. It's also perfect to make in big batches for sports days.

8. Ice Cream Float Margaritas

Margaritas and ice cream? Sounds like summer to me! Just remember to stick to plain old vanilla, because you don't want to interfere with the drink's delicious citrus flavor.

9. Raspberry Peach Wine Slushies

It's easier than you think to make slushies at home, and this winning combination of white wine and fresh fruit looks like summer in a punch glass.

Share this list if you love relaxing with a cold drink in the summer!