Sunnyside is a mindful drinking app that aims to help users become more aware of their drinking habits, take note of what triggers them to drink, or cut back on alcohol usage. Sunnyside uses AI and human coaches to help solidify users’ goals and discuss barriers and progress. Sunnyside costs $99.99 annually and includes a 15-day free trial.
In using the Sunnyside app to track my drinking habits I found the ability to track my daily drinks via text both convenient and easy, but I was disappointed that they did not offer any live coaching sessions. While the app lacks some features that are available in other mindful drinking apps, its integration of SMS text messaging for support is one reason it scored 4 out of 5 stars in our Sunnyside app review.
Sunnyside App At a Glance
Cost: $99.99 annually
Free Trial? Yes, 15 days
Pros & Cons
Pros - 15-day trial period
- Use SMS texting to log drinks and connect with coaches
- Multiple tracking options for logging daily alcohol intake
- Receive daily text reminders to log number of drinks
- Community space to connect with other app users and coaches
Cons - No free content
- Progress section only available once users log 7 consecutive days of drinking habits
- No monthly payment option; Must pay annually
Who Is Sunnyside Right For?
- Adults 21+ who are looking to develop a healthier relationship with alcohol
- Individuals who want to reduce their drinking and create more mindful drinking habits
Preview Sunnyside
Sunnyside is a mindful drinking app where users can set goals around their drinking habits and track their daily consumption. The app is available on both Apple and Android devices and costs $99.99 annually but with a 15-day free trial period. Users of the Sunnyside app have access to daily tracking, coaching through SMS text messages, and monthly challenges to help meet their goals toward alcohol intake. It was because of the ease of use and quality of resources that I gave the app 4 out of 5 stars in my Sunnyside app review.
Though I have used other apps with more features, Sunnyside is an excellent option for those just starting on their mindful drinking journey because it offers easy-to-use tracking features. I was impressed with the text messaging options that the Sunnyside app provided but was disappointed that not all features in the app were readily available. The Sunnyside app offered great alcohol tracking along with personalized coaching options.
If users are looking for a more personalized experience with live coaching sessions and group meetings, Reframe offers a more robust mindful drinking curriculum. Likewise, Sunnyside only allows tracking of alcohol consumption, and no other substances. Those looking to track other habits or substance use will be better served by I Am Sober. For more options read our full list of the best mindful drinking apps
Why You Can Trust My Review
My Sunnyside app review is based on first-hand experience and usage of the app and all its features. I have used many mindful drinking apps and have a strong understanding of what makes one app stand out over another.
I was impressed with the tracking and coaching options within the Sunnyside app and was surprised to find that the app integrated SMS text messaging well to make the user experience easier. I have almost 10 years of experience in the mental health field, helping clients on their mindful drinking journey, and I am keenly aware of the type of support needed to accomplish the goal of reducing alcohol intake.
Based on our quantitative multi-point scoring criteria, Sunnyside App scored 4 out of 5 stars during our most recent review. Our scoring criteria measure 30+ metrics across 11 categories, including quality of user experience, customer service, interface design, and overall usability.
Review our scoring criteria for mindful drinking apps.
Review our complete editorial policies here.
Firsthand Sunnyside Reviews
Chelsey Church’s Experience with Sunnyside
Randi Sprintis’ Experience with Sunnyside
Detailed Sunnyside App Review – What is Sunnyside?
The Sunnyside app is a mindful drinking app developed to help adults become more aware of their alcohol consumption or change their habits around alcohol. Sunnyside costs $99.99 annually and offers SMS text-based coaching services, daily reminder texts, monthly challenges, and easy-to-use tracking features to help users monitor their alcohol intake.
Sunnyside does lack features that other mindful drinking apps offer, such as mood or appetite tracking. However, scoring 4 out of 5 stars in our Sunnyside review, the app is a great resource for those looking to change their mindset or relationship with alcohol.
Sunnyside Mindful Drinking
Mindful drinking is the concept that people do not have to be 100% sober from alcohol to have healthier habits. Mindful drinking encourages drinkers to think more critically and become more aware of their patterns and behaviors around alcohol. Sunnyside aims to help app users examine their relationship with alcohol and set intentions, whether it be to simply cut back on drinking or abstain from it altogether.
Sunnyside Alcohol Tracking Options
Sunnyside is a mindful drinking app that allows users to track their daily consumption of alcohol. The tracking feature within the app was easy to use and allowed me to set my goal for how many drinks per day I wanted to allow myself, track if I hit or missed that target, and have a place to write any notes that I had on the day. While this feature alone was quite ordinary, it was the ability to text your drink amount and have it log for you that stuck out to me.
To set this up, I first had to navigate to the Coaching section of the app, click on a pre-typed message that I could text to a coach, and then was re-routed to my phone’s messaging app where I could then send the message. After this, I received an automated text explaining how to track alcohol consumption through texts and emojis. It prompted me to test it out by sending either the beer mug emoji or the wine glass emoji; I chose the wine glass, texted it back, and soon got confirmation that the glass of wine was recorded in my daily intake.
I also had the option of texting phrases such as, “I had 2 beers,” and it would record this for me in the Sunnyside app’s tracking system. One of the texts sent to me by the automated system explained that the system could recognize and differentiate between the emojis of a wine glass, beer mug, cocktail, or spirit and that any other drink emoji would work. I tested this by sending both the glass of milk emoji and the coffee cup emoji; neither of these drink emojis were recognized or recorded by the system, however.
Eventually, I received a text stating, “Hey Chelsey, thanks for reaching out. Just so you know, you only need to track drinks containing alcohol. No need to text anything non-alcoholic!” This actually made me laugh, as the text came from the coaching number and I imagined someone on the other side also laughing at me trying to track milk consumption.
Sunnyside texts also were sent to me at the start of the morning to ask to confirm how many drinks I ended up having the prior day. I simply responded with the number and it was added to my tracker. If I had already hit my target number of drinks for the day, the system sent me a reminder text stating that I was at my limit until the next day. Overall, I found this tracking system to be useful; I didn’t have to open the app to track drinks, which was especially helpful if I already had my texting app open.
Want to drink less? – Sunnyside helps you ease into mindful drinking at your own pace. Think lifestyle change, not a fad diet. Develop new daily routines, so you maintain your new habits for life. Take a 3 Minute Quiz.
Sunnyside App Community & Support
The Sunnyside app also offers community support by way of social media and forum posts. These features allow Sunnyside users to connect with others on the app and share updates on their goals, offer words of encouragement, or talk about struggles they have had along their mindful drinking journey.
Community support through forums and social media posts are more features in Sunnyside’s app that help users connect with other individuals and find support. I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of interaction on the app in their Community section; many Sunnyside app users would post about their wins for the week, barriers to completing their goals, or their journal prompt responses on the public forum. One feature I liked about the community support was the ability to upload my week with my targets and whether or not I met those goals. Overall, the support from other users was very positive and encouraging; I felt it was a generally safe space to talk about my challenges and successes.
Monthly Challenges in the Sunnyside App
Users of the Sunnyside app can also complete monthly challenges. I was disappointed to find that the app only offered three different challenges to complete. The options included “Fully dry challenge” where I would have to remain alcohol-free for 30 days, “Weeknight dry challenge” where I would only drink on Saturdays or Sundays for 30 days, and “Drink 50% less challenge” where my targets for the month would be cut in half. There are also month-themed challenges such as “Dryish July” which were considered the featured challenge.
Once I selected one – I went with Drink 50% Less – I was asked to invite friends or family members to join the challenge with me by sending them either an automated text or copy a link to send to them. Anyone who joined would be considered in my “challenge team” and could also participate. Under each challenge, there were also forum posts of other users completing the challenge.
Sunnyside Text-Based Coaching
One of the more unique features of the Sunnyside app is the coaching program that is offered. Unlike other apps where coaches are available in-app or on video, Sunnyside utilizes SMS text messaging to connect users to coaches. I found that this feature was integrated very well, and found it quite useful. To get started, I went to the coaching tab in the app, which, in addition to the ability to write my own messages, had several options to send pre-written messages.
Pre-written coaching options include:
- “I am having a craving”
- “I’d like to learn how to get the most out of Sunnyside”
- “I need advice for staging on my drink plan today”
- “I’d like to celebrate a recent win”
- “I’m having a hard time and could some support”
- “I’d like to help challenge my habits around drinking.”
Once I selected which message I wanted to send – I picked celebrating a recent win – the app redirected me to my text messaging app where I could then send it to a prefilled number. Within minutes, I had a text back from a coach asking me what the win was and congratulating me on the success. Sunnyside coaches were available around the clock to respond to messages. There was also an AI bot that sent daily text reminders for logging drinks, reminding me of my goal for the day, and sending a celebration text if I hit a milestone. I learned from a Sunnyside FAQ page that any questions or personal texts will prompt a response from a human coach 3.
I also tried out more of the prewritten options for coaching messages and asked for support after having a hard time. In about 10 minutes I had a response, but I felt that it seemed like an AI-generated message – the coach didn’t give me a name or identify themselves as they had in previous messages that were from human coaches. Nonetheless, the message I received back offered good support and good coping skill suggestions such as reading, exercising, or listening to music.
How Much Does the Sunnyside App Cost?
The Sunnyside app costs $99.99 annually and includes access to all of the features right away, minus the Progress section that is only available after logging 7 consecutive days of drinks. I was disappointed that there were no monthly or 3-month subscription options and that I was automatically locked into a yearly subscription. However, I was happy to see that there are no hidden fees or features that cost extra, whether it be real-world money or in-app credits like other mindfulness apps such as Reframe. The only fees that users should be mindful of are those that may apply to their phone plan, as Sunnyside does send SMS texts that may cost users an additional amount.
Who Does Sunnyside Serve?
The Sunnyside app is available in all 50 United States and serves adults ages 21+ who are on a path to more mindful drinking. Sunnyside best serves those just starting on their mindful drinking path, as it does not offer comprehensive educational articles and does not offer live support from coaches, as compared to competitors such as Reframe. Likewise, Sunnyside is not a good option for people struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) or those experiencing detox or withdrawal from alcohol; the app should not be used in place of alcohol abuse treatment or mental health services.
Workit Health and Ria Health are two online platforms that provide comprehensive support for people struggling with AUD and other addictive behaviors. Learn more in our full review of Workit Health and our Ria Health review. If your goal is to commit to total sobriety rather than just cutting back, you might be better served by I Am Sober – learn more in our full I Am Sober review.
Sunnyside App Reviews by Users
The Sunnyside app has garnered many positive reviews on the Apple App Store, with 4.7 out of 5 stars. Sunnyside was not available on Android devices until 2024, so reviews on the Google Play Store are fewer, but still overwhelmingly positive. Users liked the text-based coaching system but felt that the number of automated texts could quickly become overwhelming. There were complaints from Android users that the app had a lot of bugs and often crashes when using it, but more recent reviews seem to show that the developers have fixed this common bug.
Reviews from Apple App Store | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 1.1K reviews
- Positive reviews from the Apple App Store about Sunnyside include users praising the tracking feature and feeling that the texting-based coach check-ins were very helpful. Many users cited that their reasons for using the app were to cut back on drinking instead of becoming sober.
- Negative reviews from the Apple App Store about Sunnyside include feeling that the text alerts were too frequent and felt like spam. Many users expressed they did not like that they had to give their phone number and Apple account information at sign-up.
Reviews from Google Play Store | 4.6 out of 5 stars | 88 reviews
- Positive reviews from the Google Play Store include reports that the app does not require users to set their goal to become sober and that the cut-back track is an option. Users also enjoyed the coaching and motivational texts that they received.
- Negative reviews from the Google Play Store include trouble logging in and using the app. Many users stated that when opening the app on Android devices, they were met with a blank screen or long load times to open the app. These issues seem to be resolved with recent updates and bug fixes by developers. Like Apple users, Android users also felt the number of text notifications felt excessive.
Reviews from Trustpilot | 3.8 out of 5 stars | 217 reviews
- Positive reviews from Trustpilot include app users liking the tracking options and availability of coaches via text message. Many users also liked the daily reminders that the app sends out.
- Negative reviews from Trustpilot include feeling that the sign-up process was too invasive, with the need to give a phone number. Many users also complained about the subscription fee processing even after canceling within the 15-day trial period.
Reviews from Reddit | r/SoberCurious, r/cutdowndrinking, r/stopdrinking
- Positive reviews from Reddit include liking the tracking options to see not only how much alcohol is consumed, but also how many calories and money is saved by cutting back.
- Negative reviews from Reddit include being disappointed that a lot of the coaching responses were AI-generated. Users were generally okay with the daily text reminders being AI-generated but preferred a human response when dealing with coaching topics such as motivation, cravings, and goals.
Who May Want an Alternative to Sunnyside?
The Sunnyside app only tracks alcohol consumption and does not give the user options to track other substances or habits. Likewise, the Sunnyside app should not be used as a replacement for mental health or substance abuse treatment, and should not be used if you are experiencing detox or withdrawal symptoms from alcohol or any other substances. Those who are looking for live one-on-one coaching will also not be served, as Sunnyside only offers asynchronous text messaging-based coaching.
Individuals wanting more mindful drinking content
The Sunnyside app is a great tool for mindful drinking, with great features to set goals and track progress. There are, however, other apps on the market that offer a more robust experience, like Reframe, with more advanced tracking options, more resources on mental health topics, and coping skills to utilize during cravings.
People who do not like a lot of texts
Sunnyside’s coaching experience is 100% SMS text-based and users will be receiving several daily texts to their phones. Apps such as Reframe use only in-app content and Zoom meetings instead of text messages and would be a good alternative for those not wanting a lot of texts.
Those looking for live coaching or support
Since Sunnyside’s coaching is only available via text messaging, users who want or need a more personal experience with live video sessions would be better served by apps such as Reframe.
Those looking to cut back on habits other than alcohol
The Sunnyside app only tracks and monitors habits concerning alcohol intake, and does not include other substances such as cannabis, nicotine, caffeine, illicit substances, pornography, etc. I Am Sober is a great alternative that allows its users to track other substances and habits aside from just alcohol.
People struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a diagnosable disorder that is distinguished by a loss of functioning or control due to alcohol consumption. Areas of impact include “social, occupational, or health consequences,”1. The Sunnyside app does not serve those struggling with AUD or experiencing detox/withdrawal symptoms.
Sunnyside Vs. Competitors
Price: $99.99 annually
Free trial period? Yes, 15 days.
-
15-day free trial period -
No hidden fees or costs as sign-up -
Text-based coaching makes asynchronous check-ins possible -
Easy-to-use alcohol tracking tools
-
No free content -
Users have to track drinks for one consecutive week to unlock the progress dashboard -
Lack of educational content
Price: $24.99 monthly or $119.99 annually
Free trial period? Yes, 7-days
-
7-day free trial -
Many scheduling options for coaching sessions and Support Circle Meetings -
Coping skills to battle cravings -
Mood, appetite, and stress tracking
-
Many hidden fees that are only shown after signing up -
In-app credits are required for many features and cost real-world money -
The app is very dense and can be hard to navigate
Price: $9.99 monthly or $119.88 annually
Free trial period? Yes, 7 days
-
The free version of the app has plenty of content -
Users can track many different addictions including substances or behaviors -
Available on both Apple and Android devices
-
The notetaking section has a limited character count -
Limited amount of educational content -
Limited library of motivational packs, which means they often repeat for longtime users -
Paid version may seem unnecessary
Price: Free
Free trial period? App is 100% free
-
Free -
Available for both Apple and Android devices -
Free coaching emails
-
Many users complain about the usage of metric units instead of standard (ie. milliliters versus ounces) -
Focuses a lot on Dry January but can be used year-round -
Uses metric system for measuring units with no way to change to imperial system
Price: $3.99 monthly, $11.99 annually, or a one-time payment of $24.99 for a lifetime subscription
Free trial period? No
-
Less expensive than some other mindful drinking apps -
The alcohol tracking tool is available in the free version of the app -
Also tracks calories and money saved by not drinking
-
Only available for Apple devices -
No educational tools or lessons -
No social media or community forums in the app
Sunnyside Vs. Reframe
Sunnyside Vs. I Am Sober
Sunnyside Vs. Try Dry
Sunnyside Vs. DrinkControl
Final Verdict – Is the Sunnyside App Worth It?
Based on my experience with the Sunnyside app, I can confidently say that it is an app worth downloading for anyone on a path to more mindful drinking. The features for tracking alcohol consumption and the SMS texting integration made using the app very easy and intuitive. Other mindful drinking apps may offer live coaching sessions, but Sunnyside’s asynchronous coaching is a great fit for busy users. Overall, I was impressed by the Sunnyside app and felt that the $99.99 annual fee was worth it for those who are serious about their mindful drinking journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sunnyside?
Sunnyside is a mindful drinking app where users can set goals around alcohol consumption and keep track of daily drinks.
Does the Sunnyside App Work?
Yes, the Sunnyside does work well for users who are looking to keep track of alcohol intake and setting intentions around their drinking habits.
How Much Does the Sunnyside App Cost?
Sunnyside app costs $99.99 annually for the premium version of the app. There is no free version of the app.
Is the Sunnyside App Free?
No, the Sunnyside app is not free and costs $99.99 annually but does offer a 15-day free trial period.
Can I Use My HSA/FSA for Sunnyside?
No, Sunnyside does not accept HSA for mental health or any other health insurance options.
Does Sunnyside Issue Refunds?
Yes, Sunnyside states in its Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Trust Pilot reviews that it will honor refund requests. Users can also cancel before the end of the 15-day trial period to avoid being charged the $99.99 annual fee.
What States Is Sunnyside In?
The Sunnyside app is available in all 50 United States.
Is Sunnyside HIPAA-Compliant?
No, Sunnyside doesn’t have policies that are consistent with HIPAA standards.
Learn more in Sunnyside’s Privacy Policy.
Which is better, Sunnyside or Reframe?
Reframe offers more features and live coaching sessions, whereas Sunnyside does not. Overall, Reframe is better for those looking for a more intensive program, whereas, Sunnyside might be better for people just getting started with mindful drinking.
History & News About Sunnyside
Year Founded: 2020
Founders: Nick Allen and Ian Andersen
Headquartered In: San Francisco, California
Publicly Traded? No, Sunnyside is a private company
Parent Company: Cutback Coach, Inc.
Having grown up with parents in recovery from alcohol abuse, Sunnyside founder Nick Allen wanted to create an app that helps drinkers mindfully manage their consumption. Originally named Cutback Coach, the app was launched in 2020 after reports showed that the COVID-19 pandemic was increasing alcohol intake among Americans1. In 2023, Sunnyside announced that they would be joining the artificial intelligence (AI) bandwagon and hired Steve Lloyd as Sunnyside app’s chief product and technology officer to help develop an AI system to respond to the app users in the form of coaching. This new feature comes after Sunnyside was able to raise $11.5 million for funding the project. Sunnyside states that overall, the app has helped over 200,000 people and that users cut back their alcohol intake by an average of 32%. 1
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Alcohol Treatment – Cut Back or Quit Entirely
Ria Health – Quickly change your relationship to alcohol with our at-home program. On average, members reduce their BAC levels by 50% in 3 months in the program. Services are covered by many major health plans. Visit Ria Health
Drinking Moderation
Sunnyside – Want to drink less? Sunnyside helps you ease into mindful drinking at your own pace. Think lifestyle change, not a fad diet. Develop new daily routines, so you maintain your new habits for life. Take a 3 Minute Quiz
Detox or Rehab Center Covered by Insurance
Recovery.com – Find the best local detox or rehab center covered by your insurance. Search our unbiased and thorough list of the best mental health and addiction treatment centers. Read reviews. Start your search
Treatment for Mental Health Conditions That Coexist With SUD
Talkiatry – Get help from a doctor who can treat the mental health conditions that commonly lead to or coexist with substance use disorders. Take our online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Take Assessment
Addiction Newsletter
A free newsletter for those impacted by addiction. Get helpful tips and the latest information. Sign Up
Best Online Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs
Online medication-assisted treatment programs are fairly new to the telehealth industry, but existing companies are expanding quickly with new programs emerging every day. It’s important to explore your options and understand the level of virtual care available so you can choose the best addiction treatment program for you.
Best Mindful Drinking Apps
If you’re thinking about joining the sober curious movement and you’d like to cut back on drinking, mindful drinking apps are a great place to start. Practicing mindful drinking can take some time, attention, and patience, but with the help of the right app, you can completely transform your relationship with alcohol.
