This Natural Filipino Magic Water Recipe is going to change how you hydrate for the rest of your life! Coconut magic water is only two ingredients and so easy to make! It is magic. All natural, low sugar, electrolytes, and crazy refreshing…magic water Philippines has inspired me to create this super-food, wellness, good vibes, and healthy magic water recipe that all can truly enjoy (and it can be made vegan). Make this soon and you will taste pure refreshment, cooling coconut water gel, and all-natural goodness with nutrients.
Updated on July 28, 2025
I know magic water Manila or magic water Philippines style is all the hype and very cool! It’s perfect for a hot day and sweet with banana essence extract. For my kids, I wanted to remove the artificial flavor drops, and for myself, I wanted to convey the idea of “magic water”.
What better way to make it than with coconut water! Organic and totally natural. This coconut magic water recipe was inspired, and now I created something so special…too good not to share. This is my drink for Summer and sunny days. I hope you love it too!
Here’s everything you need to know about this clear drink from the Philippines and the inspired variation, from its roots to how to make your own coconut magical water at home.
What Is Filipino Magic Water?
Magic water in the Philippines is a clear, flavored water drink usually sold in plastic bags or cups by local street vendors. It’s magic because it looks just like plain water, until you taste it.
The original versions often use artificial powdered flavorings and sugar to create a clear, fruity-flavored hydration water. While popular with kids and nostalgic for many, the traditional version uses artificial extracts (like banana essence) and sugar.
Magic water Philippines is a clear gelatin drink with banana essence and sugar, mixed with water and ice that also has banana essence and sugar.
This modern variation that mimics the clear “magic” of the water uses real coconut water and you can use natural add-ins for a healthy take that’s just as satisfying, in a natural way, and it’s like a trip to the island spa.
A Short History of Magic Water in the Philippines
Magic water in Manila, Philippines, has been around for decades, especially in local barangays, schoolyards, and town fiestas. Often chilled, it’s a quick way to hydrate in the tropical heat.
While not considered a formal drink like palamigs or buko juice, it’s part of a broader culture of affordable refreshment found at neighborhood sari-sari stores or sidewalk carts. It was—and still is—a simple pleasure tied to childhood and community.
Where to Buy Magic Water
Traditional magic water is sold in:
- Public school canteens
- Wet markets or palengke
- Street vendors near tricycle terminals or palaruan (playgrounds)
- Fiesta or barangay celebration food stalls
You can make your own all-natural, coconut magic water at home with this simple recipe.
Why You Will Love Natural Coconut Magic Water
Natural Coconut Magic Water is not just a drink; it’s an experience that transforms hydration into something extraordinary. Here’s why you will absolutely love it:
- Pure Refreshment
The refreshing taste of coconut water is unlike any other beverage. With its light and subtly sweet flavor, it quenches your thirst while providing a burst of natural goodness. - Health Benefits
It’s a natural way to stay hydrated and energized without artificial ingredients. - Easy to Make
With just two primary ingredients, making your own coconut magic water is quick and simple. You can enjoy a delicious, healthful drink at any time, without the hassle of complicated recipes. - Versatile and Fun
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with various add-ins and flavors, such as mint, cucumber, or even fruit, making it a fun drink for everyone, from kids to adults. - Natural Goodness
Unlike many beverages on the market, Natural Coconut Magic Water is free from artificial flavors and preservatives. - Cultural Connection
Embracing the tradition of Filipino magic water connects you to the vibrant culture of the Philippines. It’s a different version, but it remembers the coconuts of the Philippines and the idea of making food special, fun with textures, and memorable. - Cooling and Soothing
This magic water serves as the perfect antidote to those hot summer days.
Ingredients for All-Natural Filipino Magic Water with Coconut Water
This version uses all-natural ingredients for clean, refreshing flavor.
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1 cup cold coconut water
- 1 packet unflavored gelatine (about 2½ teaspoons) – use agar-agar for a VEGAN coconut magic water
- ice for serving
- Optional: 1–2 teaspoons honey, agave, or cane sugar (adjust to taste)
Equipment Needed
- Large bowl
- whisk
- pot – to heat the coconut water
- Measuring cup
- Stirring spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start the Gel Base
Pour ½ cup of cold coconut water into a large mixing bowl. - Bloom the Gelatin
Sprinkle 1 packet (about 2½ teaspoons) of unflavored gelatin into the cold coconut water. Whisk immediately and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom. - Heat the Remaining Coconut Water
While the gelatin blooms, heat 1½ cups of coconut water in a saucepan until it comes to a boil. If you’d like, stir in a bit of honey or sweetener while it’s hot. - Combine and Dissolve
Pour the hot coconut water into the bowl with the bloomed gelatin. Whisk well until the gelatin fully dissolves. - Chill the Mixture
Transfer the mixture to a container and refrigerate for several hours or until completely firm. - Slice the Coconut Gel
Once set, slice the coconut gel into small, clear cubes. - Assemble the Drink
Fill a punch bowl or tall glasses with lots of ice, a generous amount of coconut gel cubes, and pour in fresh coconut water. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve with a tall spoon and enjoy the refreshing texture! The clear coconut gel nearly disappears in the drink, giving it that signature “magic water” effect.
Best Tips for Magic Water Success
- You can use boxed, canned, or fresh coconut (buko) juice.
- Follow the gelatine package instructions if it has additional ingredients or to be sure your jelly comes out correctly.
- Be sure to bloom the gelatine and dissolve it…or else you won’t have a nice coconut gel.
- Choose raw honey or low glycemic sweeteners like coconut nectar for a healthier island flavor.
- This is perfect after a workout, during hot weather, or with breakfast for natural electrolytes.
Variations and Add-Ins
Mint + Cucumber – Add a few sprigs of mint and thin cucumber slices for a spa-style twist.
Calamansi Twist – Squeeze some in for a citrus zing.
Watermelon Coconut Magic Water – Mash a few chunks of fresh watermelon into your coconut water before adding the rest.
Magic Water Slush – Blend the coconut water and ingredients with ice until slushy for a frozen version.
Kids’ Natural Magic Water – Use a few crushed strawberries or blueberries for gentle coloring without artificial dyes.
Chia Seeds – make it healthier with a spoonful of chia seeds mixed in
How to Serve
- Serve cold over ice in a tall glass
- Pour into reusable water bottles or mason jars for on-the-go hydration
- For parties, chill in a punchbowl and serve with sliced fruits and edible flowers
This drink pairs perfectly with Filipino snacks like turon, chicken lumpia, healthy baked Filipino empanadas, or even savory options like vegetarian pancit.
Common Questions
Is Filipino magic water healthy?
Traditional magic water with artificial flavors is not particularly healthy. However, this natural version with just coconut water is hydrating and rich in electrolytes and antioxidants.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best consumed within 1–2 days for freshness, especially if you’re using fresh juice.
How can I make Vegan Magic Water?
Use AGAR-AGAR for a vegan coconut magic water. Gelatine is an animal collagen product, and agr-agar is from seaweed and still gives the jelly texture. You can make this entire recipe vegan when you use agar-agar.
Can I make a big batch?
Absolutely. Just scale the recipe up.
Is coconut water better than plain water in magic water?
Coconut water adds natural sweetness, minerals like potassium and magnesium, and a mild tropical flavor. It’s more hydrating than plain water, especially post-workout or in high heat.
Coconut MAGIC WATER
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- whisk
- pot – to heat the coconut water
- measuring cup
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut water for the coconut gel
- 1 cup cold coconut water
- 1 packet unflavored gelatine about 2½ teaspoons
- ice for serving
- Optional: 1–2 teaspoons honey agave, or cane sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Start the Gel Base
- Pour ½ cup of cold coconut water into a large mixing bowl.1 cup coconut water
Bloom the Gelatin
- Sprinkle 1 packet (about 2½ teaspoons) of unflavored gelatin into the cold coconut water. Whisk immediately and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.1 packet unflavored gelatine
Heat the Remaining Coconut Water
- While the gelatin blooms, heat 1½ cups of coconut water in a saucepan until it comes to a boil. If you’d like, stir in a bit of honey or sweetener while it’s hot.Optional: 1–2 teaspoons honey
Combine and Dissolve
- Pour the hot coconut water into the bowl with the bloomed gelatin. Whisk well until the gelatin fully dissolves.
Chill the Mixture
- Transfer the mixture to a container and refrigerate for several hours or until completely firm.
Slice the Coconut Gel
- Once set, slice the coconut gel into small, clear cubes.
Assemble the Drink
- Fill a punch bowl or tall glasses with lots of ice, a generous amount of coconut gel cubes, and pour in fresh coconut water.ice, 1 cup cold coconut water
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve with a tall spoon and enjoy the refreshing texture! The clear coconut gel nearly disappears in the drink, giving it that signature “magic water” effect.
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