5 Poolside Staycation Ideas to Make the Most of Your Backyard

Can't make it to that destination spa or tropical resort this summer? Your backyard pool is a vacation waiting to happen. Here are 5 easy ways to make it one. 

1. Chill Out in Tranquility

Put your phone away and treat your backyard like a spa retreat. Sit by the water, listen to the sounds of your pool fountains, and read a book in the shade. If you want to move, try a few yoga stretches poolside. That's what real rest looks like.

2. Take in the Sun While Keeping Cool

Lounging in the sun hits differently when you have water to cool off in. Float on a lounge chair, or if your pool has a tanning ledge, settle in where the cool water meets the warm sun. Just remember to reapply your SPF.

3. Throw a Pool Party

Your pool is the perfect excuse to get people together. Keep it casual with a daytime hangout and pool games for the whole crew, or flip the script and host an evening cocktail party for adults only. Either way, the pool does most of the work.

4. Make Time for Romance

Your backyard can be just as romantic as any dinner reservation. Add floating candles or pool lights, put on music, and pour something cold. Simple setup, and the setting does the rest.

5. Get Your Grill On

Poolside and grilling were made for each other. Fire up whatever you have, whether that's a portable hibachi or a full outdoor kitchen, and invite people over. Marinate your meat ahead of time, throw some veggies on the grill, and you have a spread.

Ready to build a backyard you never want to leave? Browse our pool photo gallery for design ideas.