Think your summer vacation plans have been ruined? Not necessarily. You may not be able to travel to your favorite vacation destination – since you’re trying to stay safe and healthy during the quarantine – but you can still enjoy a staycation in your own backyard. And not only will you be safer at home – you’ll also be able to enjoy your backyard for much longer than the few days you would have spent elsewhere.
These are the 29 best items you need to create a backyard oasis, along with advice and suggestions from designers and other experts on how to create the perfect outdoor space. Also, check out this article on the best ways to turn your home’s interior into a beach house.
Our Review
-
Sturdy, comfortable outdoor furniture is essential when you’re trying to create an outdoor oasis. The Homall 4-Piece Outdoor Patio Set is ideal for your porch or patio, by the pool, or even in a grassy area. The set is constructed of steel and rattan wicker – and the wicker is strong and weather resistant, yet lightweight. All of the pieces have anti-skidding rubber feet. The armchairs can each hold up to 330 pounds, and the beige cushions on the chairs and double sofa are sponge-padded and cover with polyester fabric. The cushions, which are 2.2 inches thick, have zippers, so the covers can be removed and machine washed. The table also has a black, tempered glass top, which is ideal for holding drinks and food.
-
A beautiful area rug can add a pop of color to any space. This Nourison Aloha Indoor/Outdoor Floral Blue Multicolor Area Rug can be used on your porch, deck, or patio. The rug is made of 100% Polypropylene and has a flat weave design with cut pile patterns in red, orange, blue and green. It’s easy to clean – rinse with a hose and then air dry. The rug shown above is 7’ x 10′, but it’s also available in various other sizes, and also additional colors.
-
One way to turn your backyard in a mini oasis is by creating a separate space. The Allwood Solvallo Studio Guest House/Home Office can be installed on a concrete slab, gravel and 6×6 treated timbers, or gravel and cinder blocks. The inside floor is 172 square feet (two separate 86 square feet connected together). This space could be used as a home office, a guest office, a play space for the kids, or a place to get away from the family.
-
If you want a stylish gazebo that also protects you from the sun, consider this Coolaroo Butterfly Gabezo. The butterfly design is modern, and at 13.1’ x 13.1’, it’s actually larger than many other types of gazebos. The powder-coated steel poles are designed to last a long time, and the Xceltex fabric is designed to be weather-resistant and fast drying. The cover also provides 99% UV protection.
-
It may not be safe to go to a movie theatre, but you can have much more fun watching movies in your backyard with this Yankyo Mini Movie Projector, which designed specifically for home entertainment use. It supports 1920 x 1080 resolution, with an adjustable projection screen size that can range from 32” to 170”. In addition to movies, you can also view TV shows and photos. The projector can connect to your smartphone, Wii, PS3, PS4, and x-Box ONE, to play a variety of games. The fan noise suppression system has an innovative cooling system. This disperses heat and reduces fan noise.
-
This is one fun, double-duty item. The Clevr Ice Chest and Foosball Table Top is colorful and practical, and can be used in your gameroom, or when entertaining in your backyard. The cooler chest stores ice and drinks – and can hold 60 cans or 50 bottles. The chest also has lockable, swivel wheels, making it easy to transport the cart or secure it in place. There’s a bottle opener and cap catch tray. In addition, the bottom tray provides extra storage, and the drainage spout is a convenient way to remove melted ice. The foosball table top design provides unlimited entertainment for older kids and adults.
-
A sample was provided for an honest review
If you want to grill either outdoors or indoors, check out this Kenyon B70090 Frontier All Seasons Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill. It’s a portable, table top grill that doesn’t require gas or charcoal. The insulated lid helps the grill reach 600 degrees in 10 minutes or less using the heat settings on the digital touch control panel. The grill uses a concealed electric element that provides an almost smokeless experience, and you’ll never have to worry about grease flare-ups. The indoor/outdoor grill also has a nonstick grate and the grilling surface is dishwasher safe. The item’s total dimensions are 21” x 12” x 9” and it weighs 32.9 pounds.
-
What’s more fun than an outdoor shower? Whether you’re rinsing off after getting out of the pool, rinsing off outdoor dirt, or just trying to cool down, this Giantex Outdoor Heated Shower with Shower Head is easy to use. It connects to your garden hose. If you want warm water, the shower uses solar energy to heat the water. However, you can also adjust the valve to make the water cooler. The shower includes a swivel shower head, which makes it easier to control the water’s direction.
-
You’ll love this Keter Pacific Cool Bar Side Table. The cooler can hold up to forty 12 oz cans packed in ice, and there’s a drainage plug to easily remove the melted ice. The table top actually has a pop-up lid, so you can use it closed as a coffee table, or raise the lid (it adjusts 10 additional inches) to function as a cocktail table. Once up, the table securely locks in place. It’s made of a rattan finish that is weather resistant, so you can leave it outside. The table is available in brown, and also in gray.
-
What’s more fun that a 2-person hammock? However, you don’t need two trees – and you can avoid the hassle of trying to find a stand that fits your hammock – with this Vivere Sunbrella Double Hammock with Steel Stand. The Sunbrella material is resistant to mildew, stains, and fading. The hammock’s hooks allow you to adjust the height, and the hammock and stand combo can be assembled without tools. In addition to Sunbrella, the hammock is also available in cotton, mesh, and polyester choices. There are dozens of other colors to choose from as well, including numerous multi-color stripes and plaid options, in addition to solid colors like royal blue, hot pink, aqua, and coral.
-
This John Timberland Ashton Curved Leaves Outdoor Water Fountain is as peaceful and soothing as it is beautiful. It’s 41” high and becomes an instant focal point wherever you place it. The water fountain weighs 10.5 pounds, making it easy to move. It’s made of metal and resin, with metal leaf arms finished in copper, and a faux slate stone finish on the bottom. The water fountain also includes a pump and a 9-foot cord. While it’s designed for either indoor or outdoor use, the manufacturer recommends using the water fountain on a covered porch or patio.
-
Add ambiance in your backyard with this set of Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof LED Outdoor String Lights. The 15 lights (extending 48 ft) have Edison filament bulbs, which can create a vintage look in your backyard. They can be used on your patio, and since the cord is thick and rubberized, they can even be strung in your trees to create interest. The lights are commercial grade and designed to be waterproof and withstand heavy winds. They’re also energy efficient, using 2 watt LED standard bulbs, and will remain cool even after hours of use.
-
A sample was provided for an honest review
Keep your champaign cold with this Brümate Insulated Champagne Flute. Designed to be much colder than the average champagne flute, the flip-top lid holds in carbonation, resulting in 5 times the bubbles of a regular insulated flute. The Brümate is made with vacuum insulated stainless steel and keeps your bubbly beverages the same temperature until you finish the drink. The champagne flute can hold 12 ounces of liquids and is available in 2 dozen colors, including plum, aqua, blush, charcoal, cherry, daisy, navy, and peacock.
-
If you live in a cooler part of the country – or if you want to enjoy your backyard during the fall and winter months – this Outland Living 36-inch Propane Gas Fire Table is perfect. And, it also makes a great outdoor centerpiece. The table has an aluminum frame and weatherproof ultraviolet light high-density polyethylene wicker. The burner, burn pan, and fasteners are all stainless steel, and the flame adjustment knob and pull handle are chrome. The fire table includes a 15.5 pound decorative glass rock set, whch is visible through the black tempered glass. In addition, the propane gas tank can be stored in the easily accessible interior compartment. (Note the tank is not included; however, the fire table does include a pre-attached 3” hose with regulator.) The table shown above is 44”L x 32”W. However, it is also available in a smaller size (36”L x 36”W.)
-
You can make stargazing fun – but not overly complicated – with the Gskyer Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter, and Wireless Remote. The telescope is designed for beginners, and is easy to transport. The kit includes an aluminum alloy tripod, telescope tube, finder scope, zenith mirror, 2 eyepieces, Barlow lens, phone attachment and Bluetooth remote, accessory tray, carry bag, and manual.
-
You can save time, water, and money with this Rachio R3e Generation Smart 8-Zone Sprinkler Controller. It allows you to manage 8 different zones from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, and even works with Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, and IFTTT. The Ratio 3 can automatically adjust to ensure the proper amount of water, and creates smart schedules based on a variety of factors such soil type, plant type, and sun exposure. In addition, it also includes features like rain skip, wind skip, freeze, saturation skip, and seasonal shift.
-
This HL Patio 3-Piece Bistro Set is perfect for a small outdoor space. The table and chairs are made of strong steel frames with a powder coated bronze Espresso finish. The resin wicker is weather resistant. The chairs are sturdy – each has a weight capacity of 280 pounds – and the set can be cleaned with a wet cloth. There’s no assembly required, and the tables and chairs fold up for easy transport. The table’s dimensions are 15.5”L x 16.5”W x 31.5”H. The chairs are 22”L x 22”W x 28.3”H.
-
Fill your home (or anywhere you go) with music using this Bose Portable Smart Speaker, which delivers spacious 360-degree sound and powerful bass. Since it’s lightweight (weighing just over 2 pounds), and has a convenient handle, the speaker is easy to transport. I received a unit to review and can attest to the fact that it is also durable and water resistant, so I didn’t have to worry about dropping the speaker or splashing water on it.
In addition to being a portable Bluetooth speaker, it’s also a home speaker and a voice control speaker, so it can be used with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Of course, when not using voice control, it can also be activated via touch or the Bose Music app. Adding to the convenience of the speaker is the long-lasting battery that can hold a charge for up to 12 hours. The speaker is available in two colors: triple black, and luxe silver.
-
Enjoy a slice of golf heaven with this Dura-Pro Commercial Golf Mat Premium Turf. The mat has three layers. The base is a closed cell water-proof, nonslip pad. The middle, stabilizing layer consists of commercial urethane, and is thermally bonded to the top and bottom layers. The top layer – the turf layer – is 100% UV treated 3D turf, which is30% denser than standard range mats. The mat is pre-punched with holes for the rubber tees. Each set includes 3 rubber tees and a golf ball tray.
-
Décor meets function with these Veradek Web Decorative Panels with Stand. These decorative metal screens can be used to frame and outdoor room and define separate areas in your backyard. They can also be used to block direct sunlight and block out neighbors. The screens are made from thick gauge galvanized steel, and are weather resistant. The photo above shows 4 screens to demonstrate how they can be placed together to form a wall. However, each screen is sold separately and is 45”W x 78”H. In addition to the web design, the screens are also available in blocks, and flowleafs.
-
You can enjoy swimming in beautiful, blue water in the privacy of your own backyard. This Summer Waves Metal Frame Above Ground Pool Set with Filter Pump includes everything but water. In addition to the SkimmerPlus filter pump with GFCI, it also comes with a sturdy ladder made of lightweight steel, and a ground cloth and pool cover to keep the pool clean. The deluxe maintenance kit includes a telescoping pole, vacuum brush, vacuum adapter, and skimmer net. The pool’s water capacity is 5,246 gallons, providing plenty of room to splash, float, or swim.
-
It’ll be hard to cook indoors again after using this Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Cart Style Liquid Propane Gas Grill. It has a large cooking surface (23” x 18.5”) that’s made of porcelain-coated cast iron grates that are rust-resistant. As a point of reference, you could cook 20 burgers at one time. There are 4 stainless steel top-ported burners, and the ability to precisely control the temperature. In addition, the 10,000-BTU lidded side burner provides a place for preparing side dishes or sauces. The lid folds down when not in use, allowing the burner to be used for extra prep space. There’s also another side tray on the right side, which can be used for utensils, etc. This is a great new home gift, and an ever better gift for yourself!
-
A sample was provided for an honest review
If you want to drown out noise, these Master & Dynamic MW65 Active Noise-Cancelling Wireless Headphones can help you do that in style. Made of lightweight anodized aluminum and leather, the headphones are designed for comfort. They provide up to 24 hours of battery life, and a 15 minute charge can last up to 12 hours. The built-in dual microphones make it easy to make phone calls or communicate with your voice assistant. In addition, the Bluetooth range is 65 feet or more. Besides the silver metal/brown leather option shown above, the headphones are also available in black metal/black leather, gunmetal/black leather, and silver metal/gray leather.
-
A sample was provided for an honest review
Keep your beer cold and carbonated for up to 48 hours with this Brümate 64oz Stainless Steel Brew Growler. The double wall vacuum seal and triple insulation, combined with the stainless steel exterior, not only keeps your beer cold, but also prevents condensation and water rings. And the nonslip base ensures it won’t tip over. Of course, you don’t have to be a beer lover to love the Brümate, since it can also be used to keep your water, soft drinks or other beverages cold. It has a wide top and a screw on cap, which makes it easy to fill. You can also clip the Brümate to your backpack, etc., for hands-free transport.
-
Don’t forget the kids when you’re planning your mini oasis in the backyard. The Skywalker Trampolines Jump N Dunk Trampoline with Enclosure Net and Goal can help them – and you – to improve cardiovascular health and balance. When assembled, the galvanized steel trampoline measures 15’ x 15’ x 9’. Since there are no gaps between the enclosure net and the jumping surface, kids won’t get pinched or injured. The enclosure net also has a dual zipper and latch clip, so it won’t open as the kids are jumping around. In addition, the spring pad is extra thick and designed to resist fading.
-
Grilling outdoors may be one of your favorite things about summer. However, without proper maintenance, your grill could catch on fire. The Kona Grill Brush can clean your grill without the sharp edges you encounter with metal bristles, or the nylon brushes that tend to melt – so you don’t have to worry about remnants ending up in your food. Also, the stainless-steel brush can be used on practically any type of grill.
-
Instead of ordering pizza to be delivered, it’s fun and easy to make it at home with this Camp Chef Italia Artisan Pizza Oven that bakes like a brick oven. It can reach temperatures close to 700 degrees, making it also perfect for baking bread and roasting meat and veggies outdoors. The oven includes a regulator and 5-foot hose for use with portable propane. The double walled construction and micro-adjust valves let you choose the precise amount of heat to ensure your food is cooked to the desired temperature.
-
If you’re not ready to commit to a built-in or above ground swimming pool, consider this Hometech Family Inflatable Swimming Pool. It inflates in less than 4 minutes (electric pump not included), and has 2 curved water valves to quickly drain the pool. It’s large – the dimensions are 120”L x 72”W x 22”D – and can hold 162 gallons of water. It can also hold 2 adults and several kids. The inflatable pool is made with Naphthalene and lead-free, BPA-free material.
-
If you’re looking for a simpler and less expensive version of the popular hanging egg chair, this LuckyBerry Hanging Egg Chair with Stand warrants a second look. This chair is inexpensive compared to many other models. However, it doesn’t skimp on quality. The chair is waterproof and has UV resistant cushions, so they won’t fade in the sun. In addition, the chair supports up to 300 pounds, so you don’t have to worry about breaking it. Tools are also included with the chair, which will save you a trip to the hardware store. However, let’s hope you like brown, since that’s your own color choice for the chair. For the cushions you can choose between brown and beige