The Coco Loco Story: From a Dream to a Drink

In early 2023, we set out to create something truly special — a naturally delicious alcoholic beverage harnessing the power of the wonderfruit, coconut. Coconut water is a super elixir, packed with hydrating minerals and a delicate sweetness that makes it the perfect base for a refreshing drink.

But not just any coconut water would do.

Sourcing the best coconut water

We spent months and months searching for coconut water that met the strict criteria we had set — harvesting young coconuts from the best growing regions; nutrient-rich fruit; liquid "bottled" at the source; certified sustainable and ethical operations.

Plus, we would not accept concentrates or sub-standard derivatives.

Our exhaustive search turned up fruitless (one-pun-policy: limit reached), we decided to partner with an existing Aussie coconut water brand for quality and greater sustainability. Sourcing this key ingredient locally meant we could avoid the undesirable impacts of overseas supply — excess carbon emissions and ingredient wastage.

This was a crucial decision for us. It meant choosing a path of fewer shortcuts, longer timelines, and higher upfront costs. But that’s what the drink — and our future customers — deserved.

Crafting a specialty beverage recipe

From there, the real magic began. We teamed up with an expert mixologist and a food scientist, spending months perfecting our unique and healthy recipe. Achieving the ideal balance between coconut and natural fruit flavours was no easy feat — every tasting note had to be just right.

The goal was to create something that didn’t just taste good, but something that felt right. The kind of drink that made sense in your hand — whether you were at a summer barbecue, stretched out poolside, or settling in for a long overdue catch-up with mates. It had to be natural. Refreshing. Familiar, but elevated.

The brew that changed the game

Our brewmasters at the hallowed brewing institution that is Holgate Brewery, masterfully fermented the coconut water and crafted the alcohol base, making Coco Loco truly one-of-a-kind in the market.

Fermentation was a game-changer. Most ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages on the market rely on vodka, grain neutral spirits, or just straight-up ethanol. We knew from day one we didn’t want to go down that path. Fermenting coconut water allowed us to create something cleaner and lighter — with a neutral, almost beer-like base that carried the fruit flavours beautifully.

It also meant Coco Loco would sit in a category all its own. Not a seltzer in the American sense. Not a vodka soda. Something genuinely new — a brewed hard seltzer, made from coconut water.

From dream to drink-in-hand

From the day we dove head-first into this venture, we've navigated the learning curve that comes with starting something from scratch. We set up the company, developed the brand, and worked our way through the many layers of government needed to secure the relevant liquor licences (yes, plural). We renewed our Responsible Service of Alcohol accreditations — long expired since our early twenties — and registered with the Container Deposit Scheme in every participating State and Territory (that’s the 10c-per-can recycling bit). We also fronted the excise tax. Gulp.

To make sure Coco Loco was good enough for customers, we had each final recipe sample lab-tested for nutritional accuracy, shelf-life stability, and ingredient verification. On-pack claims were double-checked, and the labels? Let’s just say fitting everything we wanted (and legally needed) to say on a small can was no small feat. And yes — there are more shades of coconut cream in the world of print production than you'd ever expect.

But every part of that process — the red tape, the re-dos and pivots, the setbacks and small wins — was governed by our mission as a brand and business. 

Putting Coco Loco to the taste-test

To make sure we got it just right, we put Coco Loco to the ultimate test: a tasting with hundreds of people at Good Food & Wine Show, Melbourne 2024. We were already a hotly anticipated exhibitor at the show being promoted as What’s Hot in Food and Wine. 

The result? The OG Coco Loco flavours became instant favourites, loved for their crisp, tropical taste and perfectly balanced boozy kick. It was a relief, and a rush. There’s something surreal about watching someone’s eyes light up as they take a sip of something you’ve spent over a year bringing to life. No marketing. No context. Just taste.

What makes Coco Loco different?

From concept to canning, from woe to go, from start to finish, to the here and now — we remain uncompromising in our commitment to quality. Our beverage is 100% natural, made with premium coconut water and real ingredients — no shortcuts, no artificial additives, no compromises.

But Coco Loco isn’t just a cleaner alcoholic drink. It’s a deliberate move away from what drinking has looked like for too long — sugar-loaded, spirit-based, chemically flavoured concoctions made cheap for mass consumption.

We believe people are ready for something better. Something thoughtfully created and carefully brewed. Something that starts with real fruit, not flavourings.

Manufacturing in Australia: a hard lesson for our small business

In May 2024, our contract manufacturer, engaged to help scale production, entered administration, blindsiding the us and other indie labels it canned. Drinks Digest captured the shock: “We’ve spent 18 months and our life savings, while also working full-time, creating the best product,” said Coco Loco founder Jill Hale (that's me). Brink’s closure hit hardest the week our first big run was due. As Jill told reporters, “Game over. Our pre-payment? Gone. Our pre-paid ingredients? Being held hostage indefinitely… My business has been obliterated.”

Losing every dollar, can, label, and ingredient, overnight nearly ended Coco Loco, yet the ordeal exposed the fragility and instability of manufacturing in Australia, especially for small businesses like us.

However, it also showed us the true value of community support — a number of us bandied together in true Aussie-battler spirit. Thankfully, our drinks are still here to be enjoyed: remember that each independent brand you buy keeps real people’s dreams alive; and these are the brands that keep integrity in the industry, while big corporations run their own race.

There's plenty more Coco Loco to come

But we’re just getting started — our secret vault is stocked with more flavour combinations, waiting for the right moment to make their debut.

Some are nostalgic twists on Aussie classics (just like our current flavour odes to Passiona – or the Australian Pasito – and Golden Circle). Others come from experiments that surprised even us. All of them have one thing in common: they’re crafted with the same care and curiosity as the originals.

We’re not in a rush. Each flavour will land when it’s ready — not a moment sooner.

What are you keen to crack open next?

What flavours do you think would make the most delicious next-gen Coco Loco bevies? We’re all ears. If you’ve got a combo in mind send us a message.

If you want to know more about Coco Loco, then keep reading, or explore our website further.

Updated August 6, 2025

What's to Know About Coco Loco Hard Seltzer?

Imagine enjoying a delicious tropical cocktail, that’s conveniently canned, and also low-sugar and lower calories. We're Coco Loco Hard Seltzer, a refreshing drink that's making waves in the world of ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic drinks. As more people look for drinks that taste great but are also better for you, Coco Loco stands out.

We started in Australia and make our seltzers with all-natural ingredients and very little sugar. This makes us a great choice for people who are a bit more health-conscious. We also won the award for Best 'Better-for-You' RTD from Drinks Trade, which we're really proud of.

In this article, we'll tell you how Coco Loco fits into the RTD market, what makes us different from other options, and why so many people choose us as their go-to drink.

Coco Loco Hard Seltzer: What Makes Us Special?

We're redefining alcoholic drinks with our unique mix of real coconut water and natural ingredients. Our seltzers are perfect for anyone who wants a tropical taste without lots of sugar. This makes them a great option for people on a keto diet.

Why Choose Coco Loco?

• Real Coconut Water: We use the natural hydration and flavour of coconut water.
• Intense Flavour: We offer bold flavours like Coco Loco Pineapple and Passionfruit Alcoholic Sparkling Coconut Water.
• Low-Sugar & Keto Friendly: We're a great choice for people who are health-conscious.
• Small-Batch Brewed: We brew in small batches to make sure every can tastes great.

Key Features

Experience Coco Loco Hard Seltzer and enjoy a refreshing and unique alcoholic coconut water.

The Growing RTD Market: Where Do We Fit In?

The ready-to-drink (RTD) market has been growing a lot, and hard seltzers are leading the way. We’ve found our place by mixing the refreshing taste of hard seltzer with real coconut water. This appeals to people who want a great-tasting drink and also want a low-sugar option.

Key Features of Coco Loco Hard Seltzer:

• Natural Ingredients: We stick to our natural roots with real coconut water.
• Flavour Options: We have exciting flavours like Coco Loco Pineapple and Passionfruit Alcoholic Sparkling Coconut Water.
• Health-Conscious: Our seltzers fit in with a keto lifestyle because of their low sugar content.
• Crafted Perfection: We use a small-batch brewing process to give you a premium drink.

By giving you a taste of the tropics, we're not just a drink — we're an experience that stands out in the competitive RTD market.

Drink Better: What Makes Coco Loco a Better Drink?

We've set a new standard in the ready-to-drink (RTD) market by combining great flavours with health benefits. We offer a drink that’s both enjoyable and fits with consumer preferences for quality and good ingredients. From our all-natural ingredients to the care we take with each batch, everything we do is designed for modern drinkers. Our focus on using real coconut water, low sugar, and Australian ingredients helps us stand out from traditional options.

All-Natural Ingredients

At the heart of Coco Loco is our commitment to pure, natural ingredients. We don't use artificial additives. We use real coconut water as a key part of our seltzers, which gives them a real and refreshing taste that’s different from other RTDs. Our flavours, like Coco Loco Pineapple and Passionfruit, are made with natural ingredients to give you a true tropical taste.This focus on natural ingredients aligns with what more people are looking for in their drinks – quality and transparency.

Low-Sugar Alcohol

Low-sugar options are more popular than ever, and we have the perfect answer. We make a drink that keeps sugar levels low without losing any of the flavour. We carefully balance our recipe to give you a crisp, refreshing taste while keeping the sugar content minimal. This makes us a great choice for people on a keto diet or anyone trying to cut back on sugar.

Made in Australia

We proudly make our seltzers in Australia. By using locally sourced ingredients, we reflect the diverse flavours of Australian produce. Our commitment to small-batch brewing also shows our dedication to quality. Each batch is carefully brewed to make sure it tastes great every time. For you, this means you’re not just enjoying a drink, you're also supporting an Australian-made product.

Our Flavours

We stand out in the world of hard seltzers by offering a unique tropical experience based on real coconut water. We use natural ingredients to make a drink that fits with a keto lifestyle and has low sugar. Every sip gives you a good balance of flavour and lightness, making us a great choice for anyone who likes a lively but subtle drink.

Pineapple: A Light Piña Colada

Our Coco Loco Pineapple is a fan favourite. The mix of real coconut water with pineapple creates a refreshing blend that gives you tropical vibes.The natural sweetness of the pineapple is perfectly balanced, with a hint of tartness that goes well with the mild coconut water. It's a great choice for a hot day or a relaxing evening.

Other Flavours

We don't stop at pineapple. We also offer a popular Passionfruit flavour and are planning to add a Mojito (Lime & Mint) flavour to our lineup. We always make sure to use real coconut water as the base for our delicious drinks. Our small-batch brewing process ensures that every can tastes great, no matter which flavour you choose.

Customer Reviews & Testimonials

We've quickly built a loyal fan base that loves our refreshing taste and how our drinks are better for you. Customers often talk about how our unique blend of coconut water and alcohol has the perfect balance of flavour and natural ingredients. The small-batch brewing process also seems to be a hit with people who appreciate authenticity.

People Love the Taste

Customers can’t stop talking about how good our seltzer tastes. Our flavour is set apart by real coconut water, which gives it a smooth, tropical feel. Many reviews mention the burst of natural fruit flavours, especially in our Coco Loco Pineapple and Passionfruit seltzers. Our subtle sweetness and bubbly finish make us the perfect drink for relaxing or socialising.

Focus on a 'Better-for-You' Philosophy

We're not just about taste; we're also about fitting in with a 'better-for-you' lifestyle. Many reviewers praise our use of natural ingredients and low sugar content, which works well with health-focused routines, including keto and other diets. We stand out by offering an alcoholic drink that doesn't compromise on health.

Industry Recognition

To stand out in the world of hard seltzers, you need more than just a good flavour. You need to show a commitment to quality and health. We've made our mark by winning awards for our approach. This shows that we're a leader in the growing market of low-sugar and keto-friendly alcoholic drinks.

Best 'Better-for-You' RTD from Drinks Trade

Our commitment to making drinks that align with health trends has been noticed. We were proud to receive the award for Best 'Better-for-You' RTD from Drinks Trade. This award shows that we're great at making a product that puts consumer health first without compromising on taste. It also shows how we successfully blend innovation and wellness. With our drinks like Coco Loco Pineapple, we’re at the forefront of providing drinks packed with natural goodness.

Coco Loco vs. Other Drinks

The RTD market is competitive, but we stand out as a refreshing alternative because of our unique blend of real coconut water and subtle alcohol. We’re made for health-conscious people who are looking for a low-sugar and natural drink. Our flavours, like pineapple and passionfruit, give you a balanced and refreshing experience.

Our Competitors

The market is full of brands, but we set ourselves apart by prioritising quality and taste. Some of our competitors use cheap alcohol (look for ‘Alcohol’ on the label), and have a higher sugar content (up to 17g per can!). Others are made with coconut powder, not real coconut water. We ensure the quality and integrity of every COCO LOCO drink by being small-batch brewed in Australia.

The Story Behind Coco Loco

We’re changing the game by mixing the refreshing taste of coconut water with the fizz of hard seltzer. Our drinks are made with real coconut water, which not only gives you natural goodness but also a great tropical flavour. Our seltzers are for anyone who wants a low-sugar drink that fits with a keto lifestyle. Each sip of Coco Loco Pineapple or Passionfruit takes you to a tropical paradise.

Our Commitment to Quality

We're not just about making a great drink; we're about a commitment to quality and honesty in every sip. It all starts with us finding the best ingredients. Real coconut water is the core of all our drinks, so you get a real and refreshing taste every time. We also focus on keeping our sugar content low, which makes us a good choice for people on a keto diet. This focus on health doesn't mean we sacrifice flavour. Our attention to detail extends to our small-batch brewing, which gives us more control over quality and consistency. We’re not just a brand you can trust; we’re a brand you can count on for a quality, refreshing drink.

Why You Should Choose Coco Loco

We stand out for our blend of natural ingredients and unique flavour. Our seltzers are made with real coconut water, giving you a great balance of lightness and taste that’s perfect for anyone who appreciates a quality, small-batch drink.

Here’s why we should be your go-to choice:

• Natural Ingredients: We’re made with real coconut water, so you get a fresh and real taste.
• Low Sugar: We’re great for people who want to live a healthier life without giving up on flavour.
• Keto-Friendly: Our low carb content supports a keto lifestyle.
• Variety of Flavours: Whether you want the tropical taste of Coco Loco Pineapple or the zing of passionfruit, we have a flavour for you.
• Intense Flavour: We offer the perfect flavour intensity that goes well with our natural fruit juice.

 

Choose Coco Loco Hard Seltzer for a drink that’s both refreshing and works with your lifestyle.

Haven't tried our coco loco before? Head over to our drinks page and shop all packs.