Made with crisp cucumber, bright citrus, and cool mint, this chilled Spa Water is simple to prepare and wonderfully refreshing. It’s an ideal drink for hot days or any time you want a light, flavorful beverage.
For a light snack alongside this spa water, try applesauce muffins — a subtly sweet accompaniment that pairs well with the drink’s clean, citrusy notes.
This recipe was inspired by a refreshing drink I enjoyed at a local spa. I recreated a simple version at home and found it easy to make and absolutely delightful. The flavors are subtle but distinct: cooling cucumber, tangy grapefruit, sweet tangerine, and a whisper of mint. It looks beautiful in a pitcher, too—green and citrus tones that invite you to pour a glass, put on a face mask, and relax.
The result is a light, gently infused water that refreshes without overpowering. Make a large pitcher and keep it chilled so it’s ready whenever you want a cooling, hydrating treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously refreshing. Ice-cold and subtly flavored with cucumber, citrus, and mint — perfect for warm weather.
- Simple to prepare. Minimal prep (slice and rinse), then let it chill in the fridge overnight for the best flavor.
- Visually attractive. The pale green cucumber with pink and orange citrus slices makes an inviting, Instagram-ready pitcher.
- Customizable. Swap or add fruits and herbs to suit your taste — see the variation ideas below for inspiration.
What is Spa Water?
Spa water is simply filtered water infused with fresh ingredients like cucumber, citrus, and mint. Ingredients are added to a pitcher and allowed to sit in the refrigerator so their aromas and flavors gently infuse into the water. The result is a delicately flavored, hydrating drink.
Many spas serve this type of infused water to guests, but it’s just as easy and enjoyable to make at home.
Ingredient Notes
This infused water requires just five ingredients. Below are brief notes to help you choose and prepare them. For exact amounts, see the recipe section further down.
- Grapefruits – Wash and slice; you do not need to peel them. The rind adds a subtle bitterness and aroma to the water.
- Tangerines or oranges – Slice with the peel on or peel and segment them, depending on your preference.
- Cucumbers – Rinse and slice; leave the peel on for color and mild flavor.
- Fresh mint leaves – Rinse gently. Fresh basil is a good alternative if you prefer.
- Filtered water – Start with clean, filtered water for the best taste; strong-tasting tap water can affect the final flavor.
Tips and Variation Ideas
- Wash produce thoroughly. Clean fruits and vegetables well before adding them to the pitcher to remove dirt or residue.
- Let flavors meld. For the best taste, refrigerate the pitcher overnight so the fruit and herbs can infuse the water. Shorter times produce a milder flavor.
- Use filtered water. Filtered water keeps the beverage clean-tasting; avoid water with strong chlorine or sulfur notes.
- Try different fruits. Pineapple, mango, cherries, or berries (strawberries work especially well) are all great alternatives or additions.
- Swap herbs. Basil pairs nicely with citrus or cucumber if you want a different flavor profile.
- Add carbonation. If you enjoy sparkling water, pour a splash of club soda into each glass right before serving.
What Goes With Fruit Water?
This spa water is lovely poolside, at a picnic, or served at home with a light sandwich or salad. Cucumber sandwiches, creamy dill chicken salad (served in a sandwich or on the side), or a chopped salmon salad are all excellent pairings. It’s also refreshing on its own after a self-care moment — think bubble bath and a relaxing read.
How Long Does Spa Water Last?
Store the infused water in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days. After that, the fresh flavor fades and the fruit may begin to break down.
More Warm Weather Drinks
- Blueberry Agua Fresca
- Strawberry Limeade
- Strawberry Acai Refresher
- Hibiscus Iced Tea Sparkler
- Strawberry Milk
- Sorrel Drink (Jamaican Hibiscus Punch)
Spa Detox Water Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 whole grapefruits, washed and sliced (no need to peel)
- 2 whole tangerines or oranges, washed and sliced into rounds or peeled and segmented
- 2 whole cucumbers, washed and sliced
- 20 fresh mint leaves, washed
- 8 cups filtered water
Instructions
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Place the prepared grapefruit, tangerines (or oranges), cucumber slices, and mint leaves into a large (80–90 ounce) glass pitcher.
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Pour filtered water over the ingredients to fill the pitcher.
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Cover the pitcher with a lid, plastic wrap, or a clean paper towel.
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Refrigerate and let the flavors infuse overnight for best results.
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Enjoy an 8-ounce glass in the morning and up to three glasses per day if desired.
Nutrition
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Values may vary by ingredients and tools used.