Tropical Backyard Tour | Tiki Decor and Tiki Bar

Summertime Backyard Fun! Most of us live far away from the beach or a tropical paradise, but who is to say we can't bring a little tropics to our own backyard.

In this video you will see a tour of my own backyard paradise. Each year, I add a few new items to the space. I always look forward to spring time when I get to bring everything out, sit back, and enjoy. This year we added our gravel patio and fire pit area and I finally put out a bunch of my homemade Tiki bar signs.

Tips for creating your own paradise:

1. Lots of colorful flowers! Make sure you get colorful pots and planters as well. 
2. Lighting. This is essential to give it that "warm tropical glow" at night. The lights really give it that resort feel. I recommend warm lighting not the "white" colored bulbs. Spot lights work great, shine them upwards into the plants. A cheaper route would be Tiki torches. The flame will give you great light and movement!
3. Party Lights: a few strands of colorful party lights will give your porch or deck that fun vibe!
4. A few "bigger" plants. You need a few palm trees or ornamental trees to get the wow factor and tropical "jungle" feel.
5. Wood "texture". Bamboo fencing, posts, etc. will give it that harbor/dock feel.
6. Extra character: Tiki signs, bar signs, fish nets, Tiki statues, candles, metal signs, etc. will fill in the spaces and give your patio some real character. Check out re-sale shops, souvenir shops on your next vacation, Amazon, and local retailers (party supply stores, Old Time Pottery, At Home, etc) for seasonal summer décor. 
7. Water. I have yet to add this to my patio, but water is a great addition to any backyard landscape. Try a small table fountain, small waterfall fountain or backyard pond to bring some water sounds to your paradise. 

What do you use in your own backyard to bring a slice of paradise close to home? Leave me your ideas in the comments below. I would love to see some pictures of your space as well if you have them!