Take the Plunge into Ultimate Relaxation with a Poolside Bar

Is there anything better on a hot summer day than lounging poolside with an ice cold drink in hand? For many homeowners, integrating a poolside bar creates the ultimate backyard oasis for entertainment and relaxation. As poolside bars grow in popularity, more design options make it possible to create a custom aquatic escape right in your own backyard.

From built-in swim-up bars to portable coolers on wheels, poolside bars range from lavish to laidback. Keep reading for ingenious ideas to create your dream aquatic hangout.

Built-In Bars Ideal for Custom Luxury

For an integrated look and feel, a customized built-in bar blends seamlessly into the poolscape. Built-in bars come in two main styles: swim-up bars and poolside bars.

Swim-Up Bars Entice Guests into the Water

Swim-up bars allow guests to literally belly up without leaving the water. The bar counter extends directly out from the pool edge, with submerged stools so swimmers can sit directly in the water. Beneath the surface, foot rests allow loungers to comfortably relax with their lower body submerged.

Getting the height right is key - seats should allow legs to bend comfortably while sitting partially in the water. The counter height should provide enough knee clearance and work well for both seated swimmers and guests standing poolside. Many designers recommend a counter height of 41-43 inches.

Accessibility is also important. The space needs to accommodate both in-water seating and walk-up access behind the bar. An L-shape is ideal, allowing seating on two sides. Leave at least 4 feet open for an access point from the pool deck.

Poolside Bars Offer Flexible Relaxation

Poolside bars situated right next to the pool offer the same convenience without built-in seating. Stylish patio bars, tiki huts, and covered pavilions all work well pooled up on the deck. Just be sure to leave ample room for loungers and foot traffic.

Built-in bars become focal points for poolside fun. Strategically placed, they create an instant tropical feel for backyard resort living.

Portable Bar Carts Provide Party Mobility

Portable bars on wheels provide maximum flexibility for maneuvering around the poolscape. Bar carts give all the functionality of a built-in bar with none of the permanence. Simply roll them poolside when needed, then stow out of sight when not in use.

Choose a style that suits your aesthetic, from ornate metal frames with glass shelves to rustic rolling coolers. Look for models with drainage holes, ample surface space, and smooth rolling casters. Add a coordinating patio umbrella for shade. Ice buckets, racks for glassware, and other organizational extras customize portable bars for entertaining.

Get Creative with One-of-a-Kind Bar Concepts

Beyond basic bars, creative designs make the pool an extension of your own personal oasis. Try repurposing a small building into a bar, like converting a pool house or gazebo. Add plumbing and electrical as desired to stock appliances and lighting.

For organic integration, build a bar area right into the landscape. Use boulders, stone walls, and greenery to nestle it right into the Yard. A pergola overhead topped with flowering vines provides natural shade. Surround with container gardens overflowing with ornamental grasses.

Or create an underwater cave bar encased in a rocky grotto, viewable through the pool water. Options are endless when you think beyond the basic bar shape.

Relaxed Seating Encourages Lingering

Comfortable seating transforms drink oases into full-fledged hangouts. Add alluring areas to settle in with an umbrella drink or cocktail. Build a bench area right into the pool side for dipping toes or legs while seated poolside. Curve bench seating around a fire pit on an adjoining patio.

Gather around cabanas or daybeds with retractable canopies. Dot the poolscape with hammocks for swaying in the shade. Just be sure to include end tables or ledges to hold drinks and appetizers. The more lounging options, the better.

Outdoor Kitchens Crank Up the Fun

Add serious sizzle with a full outdoor kitchen and grill station adjacent to the pool. This extends the bar into a central entertainment area. Start with the basics like a barbeque grill and beverage refrigerator. Consider adding a sink, pizza oven, and even kegerator for serious imbibing.

Include prep space and storage for serving up fare poolside. Open shelving lined with grill tools, serving trays and condiments keeps essentials at the ready. Under-counter cabinets provide room to tuck away accessories when not in use.

Themed Bars and DIY Stations

Make your backyard oasis even more festive with fun themed bars and do-it-yourself beverage stations. A margarita bar gets happy hours started off right with blenders, mixes, salt rimmers, and rows of Mexican beer. A coffee bar provides a pick-me-up with an espresso machine, flavored syrups, and whipped cream.

For healthier quenching, build a juice and smoothie station stocked with blenders, supplements, and fresh produce. The options are unlimited - boldly brainstorm anything that suits your unique entertaining style.

Material and Design Elements for Poolside Perfection

A poolside bar needs to stand up to wet conditions, weather fluctuations, and pool chemicals. Select durable materials that hold up over time. Tile, natural stone, concrete, and stainless steel all make practical options that are easy to clean.

For counters, choose smooth non-porous materials that won't react with pool chemicals. Granite, marble, and quartz hold up beautifully while providing a polished look. Opt for wood alternatives like teak and ipe, or marine-grade plastics that withstand moisture.

Incorporate lighting for evening ambiance. Waterproof pendant lights, recessed lighting, and tiki torches illuminate the space while adding style. For sparkling beauty, embed LED lighting strips into bar counters and facades.

Careful Planning is Key

A landscape designer can help carefully plan your poolside bar, from structural engineering to flow and functionality. Carefully consider walkways, clearance, accessibility, and seating arrangements. This ensures your bar integrates seamlessly into the overall poolscape.

Make sure to involve your pool contractor to account for mechanical equipment, utilities, and relevant codes. Planning ahead provides for the most inviting backyard bar without headaches down the road.

Blend into Your Backyard Style

Your poolside bar should complement your overall landscape design and style. Contemporary designs look sleek and modern in steel, concrete and glass. Rustic bars crafted from reclaimed wood and corrugated metal play up a more laidback vibe.

For tropical flair, weave in thatched roofing, bamboo, and lush greenery. Mediterranean bars pop with terra cotta, exposed wood beams, and decorative tilework. Your bar provides the perfect opportunity to extend your design palette poolside.

Final Touches Finish the Look

Styling your poolside bar keeps the area looking pulled together. Opt for stools that withstand weather and won't corrode. All-weather wicker and aluminum provide comfortable, water-resistant options.

For shade, suspend a canvas umbrella over the bar or a large patio umbrella off to the side. Display towels poolside for drying off after a dip. Arrange floating pool toys around the area when not in use.

Potted palms, citrus trees, and blooming flowers provide fresh accents around the space. Accentuate with decorative touches like vases, lanterns, or a mounted fish plaque. The finishing details let your personality shine through.

A poolside bar takes your aquatic oasis to the next level. No need to pack up for the poolside cabana at a resort - just head out to your own private backyard escape. Spend long summer days gathered with friends and family while enjoying food, drinks, music, and fun in the sun.

Get started designing your backyard paradise today. Browse online galleries for inspiration or schedule a consultation with a professional. Soon you'll be mixing up pitchers of poolside cocktails to toast your new entertainment triumph.