Who says you need to travel to experience a luxurious resort getaway? With the right styling, décor, and a few thoughtful touches, you can turn your backyard into a dreamy staycation destination. Whether you want a tropical oasis, a coastal retreat, or a boho-inspired escape, here’s how to create resort vibes right at home using outdoor cushions, beanbags, rugs, and art.
1. Create a Comfortable Lounge Area
The key to a resort-like backyard is a cosy and inviting lounge space where you can relax in style. Start by layering soft outdoor cushions and beanbags to create a plush, laid-back seating area. Opt for weather-resistant, UV-protected materials to ensure durability and longevity. Arrange them around a low table or fire pit to encourage conversation and relaxation.
Top Picks:
- Oversized beanbags for a relaxed, beach-club feel
- Outdoor cushions in tropical prints or neutral tones for a sophisticated touch
- Hammocks or hanging chairs for the ultimate lounging experience
2. Incorporate Coastal-Inspired Rugs
An outdoor rug instantly elevates your backyard space, defining different zones while adding warmth and texture. Choose coastal or boho-inspired outdoor rugs that complement your style, whether it’s breezy and tropical or earthy and relaxed.
Why Use Outdoor Rugs?
- They create a cosy atmosphere, making your space feel like an outdoor living room.
- They protect your deck or patio from wear and tear.
- They add a stylish design element that ties everything together.
3. Decorate with Outdoor Wall Art
Outdoor-friendly wall art can bring personality and colour to your space. Opt for pieces featuring beach landscapes, abstract ocean hues, or tropical patterns. You can also create a feature wall with a gallery of framed prints or woven wall hangings for a curated, resort-inspired aesthetic.
4. Enhance the Ambiance with Lighting
Resorts always have a warm, inviting glow at night, and you can recreate this with strategic lighting. Fairy lights, lanterns, and LED candles can set the mood, while solar-powered stake lights help illuminate pathways. Consider adding outdoor fire pits or torches for extra ambiance.
Lighting Tips:
- Use warm-toned lights for a cosy, relaxing vibe.
- String lights across pergolas or trees for a magical, resort-like atmosphere.
- Place lanterns around seating areas for a soft, flickering glow.
5. Add Poolside Resort Elements
If you have a pool, take inspiration from luxury resorts by adding plush towel loungers, umbrellas, and chic pool floats. Even if you don’t have a pool, you can still set up a refreshing outdoor misting system or a stylish inflatable spa for a cooling effect.
Pro Tip:
Roll up colourful beach towels in a basket or on a towel rack for an added spa-like touch.
6. Bring in Tropical Greenery
Lush greenery instantly makes any space feel more like a tropical paradise. Add potted palms, ferns, and succulents to your patio or deck to create a vibrant, fresh look. If you have space, consider an outdoor vertical garden or a collection of hanging planters for a lush, resort-style feel.
Plant Ideas:
- Palms and banana trees for a tropical vibe
- Lavender and jasmine for a fragrant escape
- Aloe vera and succulents for low-maintenance greenery
7. Create an Alfresco Dining Area
Dining under the stars is a hallmark of any great resort experience. Set up a stylish outdoor dining area with comfortable seating, a chic table setting, and soft lighting. Add woven placemats, linen napkins, and a statement centrepiece to elevate the look.
Easy Resort-Style Dining Ideas:
- A grazing board with fresh fruit, cheese, and charcuterie
- Refreshing cocktails served in elegant glassware
- Candlelit dinners with a soft coastal breeze
8. Play Relaxing Sounds & Scents
Complete the resort experience with soothing sounds and scents. Play ocean waves, tropical birds, or acoustic chill music through outdoor speakers. Use citronella candles, essential oil diffusers, or incense with scents like coconut, vanilla, or sea breeze to engage the senses.
Final Touch: Relax & Enjoy!
Once you’ve styled your outdoor space with cosy beanbags, stylish cushions, tropical rugs, and dreamy lighting, all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy your at-home paradise. Whether you're reading a book in a hammock, sipping a cocktail by the fire pit, or hosting a sunset gathering, your backyard retreat will be the perfect summer escape.
Looking for the perfect outdoor accessories to create your dream staycation? Check out Salt Sun Sand for stylish outdoor cushions, beanbags, rugs, and décor to complete your space!
Share:
Colour Psychology in Outdoor Design: Choosing the Right Hues