The Lake Martin Bushwacker Tour ™
The Bushwacker: The Ultimate Frozen Cocktail for Boaters
If you’ve spent time boating Lake Martin, you’ve probably heard of (or indulged in) the legendary Bushwacker. This creamy, boozy, frozen delight is often called an “adult milkshake,” and it’s a must-have for any day on the water. Whether you’re cruising Lake Martin or relaxing at a dockside bar, the Bushwacker is the perfect way to cool down and kick back.
The History of the Bushwacker
The origins of the Bushwacker trace back to 1975 at the Sapphire Beach Village in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The drink was named after a friendly dog, Bushwacker, who belonged to a guest. Soon after, the cocktail made its way to the famous Flora-Bama Lounge on the Alabama-Florida state line, where it became a Gulf Coast favorite. From there, it spread like wildfire to bars, marinas, and beachside grills.
Why Boaters Love the Bushwacker
This drink is a staple in waterfront bars from Florida to Alabama to Lake Martin. It’s cold, refreshing, and packed with enough punch to make you feel like you’re on island time—no matter where you are. Plus, it’s a fantastic blender batch cocktail, making it perfect for parties on the dock.
Where Can I get one?
There are 5 boatable restaurants and bars on Lake Martin that make the Bushwacker Tour. You can find them on the map and list below… It’s important to note that the law states you must consume all alcoholic drinks on the premises of each establishment and driving under the influence is illegal.
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Bushwacker Tour Locations
Please check the seasonal hours of each establishment. The 
indicates leashed friendly dogs allowed.
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What's in a Bushwacker?
At its core, the Bushwacker is a rum-based frozen cocktail with flavors of chocolate, coffee, and coconut. It’s rich, creamy, and deceptively strong. While recipes vary, here’s a classic take on this boozy treat:
Classic Bushwacker Recipe
🍹 Ingredients:
- 2 oz dark rum (or spiced rum)
- 1 oz Kahlúa (or other coffee liqueur)
- 1 oz dark crème de cacao
- 2 oz cream of coconut
- 2 oz half-and-half (or milk)
- 2 cups ice
- Whipped cream and a cherry for garnish
- Chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)
🍹 Instructions:
- Add all ingredients (except garnish) into a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup inside a glass for extra flair.
- Pour into a hurricane glass, top with whipped cream and a cherry.
- Enjoy responsibly!
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about the Bushwacker is how customizable it is. Want to make it even more indulgent? Try adding:
- Vanilla ice cream for an extra-thick treat.
- Peanut butter for a nutty twist.
- Banana liqueur for a tropical kick.
- Irish cream for added richness.
For a Lake Martin twist, consider swapping dark rum for Praline Pecan Liqueur, adding a Southern-style, nutty sweetness!
