{Sunset Magazine}
I don’t know about you, but we don’t get to take tropical vacations very often. That doesn’t mean we can’t turn our own backyard into a private island retreat. With a few thoughtful touches you can create a Bali-inspired escape to enjoy all summer long.
Isn’t life about enjoying the everyday instead of waiting for rare, expensive getaways? Small, everyday pleasures are what make life richer. For far less than a real trip to the tropics, you can transform your patio with the sights, sounds and scents of an island vacation.
I love Remodeling Guy’s backyard.
His Tiki bar invites you to relax—could you ask for a better backyard vibe?
How to create your own tropical backyard paradise
1. Reuse wicker and rattan furniture found at garage sales, thrift stores or in storage. Chairs, side tables and coffee tables can be refreshed with a coat of spray paint to fit your color scheme.
2. Shop for a few island-inspired accessories to set the tone. A handful of well-chosen items makes a big difference.
3. Add colorful, tropical-patterned pillows to establish the palette and make seating comfortable.
4. Use plants—bamboo, ferns and other lush foliage—to bring green, tropical texture and privacy to the space.
5. Layer lighting with candles, lanterns and tiki torches to create warm, inviting evening ambience.
6. Bright spray paint can modernize and unify existing accessories for an instant refresh.
7. Incorporate natural textures like bamboo, rattan, wicker and seagrass. Woven placemats, baskets and rugs add tactile interest.
8. Create a small bar area for mixing and serving drinks—presentation makes entertaining feel special.
9. Use market umbrellas to provide shady spots, making the space comfortable during hot afternoons.
10. Lay out bright beach towels and keep a stash of fun accessories for spontaneous lounging.
11. Choose a tropical-scented sunscreen or candles to add a subtle, vacation-like fragrance.
12. Play island music on a stereo or portable speaker, pour a fruity drink (complete with a tiny umbrella if you like), and enjoy the feeling of being away without leaving home.
Enjoy!
Top photo: Sunset magazine
For more images from Remodeling Guy’s backyard and Tiki bar, see his original post.