If your backyard sports a swimming pool, you are likely to be one of the most popular neighbors on the block. This probably means an increase in entertaining opportunities and the need for some must-have accessories. A poolside tiki bar is an excellent addition to the outdoor living space, because it provides a place for mixing drinks and displaying appetizers. It can also add to the tropical design of your outdoor decorating. We've got the tips you need to find the perfect pool tiki bar for your pool area.

Basic Tiki Features

What do you think of when you hear the word tiki? A tropical scene undoubtedly comes to mind. A pool tiki bar is tropical in design, usually with a thatched roof created with woven grass or leaves. The rest of the bar is often crafted of a natural wood, with bamboo, cypress and cedar being the materials of choice. The bar top may be a glass insert or bamboo mats for easy clean-up. A matching set of stools is also a nice addition that allows your guests to visit with you while you are mixing drinks and preparing appetizer trays.

Tiki Size

A pool tiki bar can vary greatly in size and shape, but keep in mind that the larger bars will also be more costly. The size may also be dependent on whether you want a pool tiki bar as a permanent poolside fixture or a temporary structure that can be moved in and out for entertaining. Smaller bars are better choices for portability, since the weight of the structure can make it difficult to move around. A portable pool tiki bar should also be on wheels for easy transport or be created to fold into a more manageable size when not in use.

Tropical Lighting

Lighting is another consideration if you will be entertaining at night. You may already have lighting set up around your pool, but a string of lights on your pool tiki bar will also make it easier for your guests to visit around the center of the happenings. Tiki torches are another nice way to add to the ambiance of the evening and provide additional lighting. However, it is important to keep your torches away from the thatched roof of the pool tiki bar unless you want to see your entire party go up in flames!

Fun Accessories

Kitschy and campy are the buzzwords when accessorizing your pool tiki bar. A few tiki totem poles make a nice accessory, as do lava rocks and sand. You can also place standing umbrellas about and cover the tops with tropical grasses for more tropical appeal. Vines of tropical flowers strung about will add color to your display and cutouts of fish and starfish can be the perfect touch. Even a fake parrot hanging from a string can make a fun and whimsical addition to your pool tiki bar décor.

A pool tiki bar can be the perfect addition to a pool area that sees a lot of entertaining. By following these tips, you can have a pool tiki bar that sets the perfect mood for an island party right in your own backyard.