Posted by Chair King Backyard Store

If you’re like us, summer is a season you look forward to with its long days, backyard cookouts, and pool parties, but when the temperature starts to rise, a summer outdoors can feel more like a frying pan. If you’ve ever sat on a cast aluminum chaise that’s been left uncovered all day, you know what we’re talking about.

The good news? There are plenty of ways to keep your outdoor space cool and comfortable without giving up your favorite summer hangout spot. Whether you're planning a big party or just want to relax with a beach read, here are some practical (and fun) ways to beat the heat outdoors.

First things first: if you don’t have a shade structure, you need one. Sitting in direct sunlight might feel nice for about five minutes before it becomes sweaty and uncomfortable.

The simplest solution? A good patio umbrella. Whether you prefer a standard market-style or table umbrella or something larger, like an arc or cantilever umbrella, an outdoor umbrella makes a world of difference and will protect you from harmful UV rays. Look for an umbrella with high-quality shade fabric to ensure you’re getting the most effective sun protection like Sunbrella and other solution-dyed acrylic fabrics. If one umbrella doesn’t quite provide enough shade for your outdoor space, consider a pergola or a shade sail for wider coverage. While these types of structures take up more space and require more work to set up, it will all be worth it once noon rolls around.

Shade helps, but who doesn’t love a breeze? A portable fan, even a handheld fan, can make being outdoors more enjoyable during high temperatures. Think about it. Most restaurants have oscillating fans or their commercial counterparts to cool their patios, what’s stopping you? An outdoor fan can drop the temperature in your seating area by several degrees, especially if you have covered outdoor space to help trap the cool air. There are plenty of quiet and stylish options on the market that can seamlessly blend into your outdoor decor. Whether you install a ceiling fan or go for a smaller, more mobile standing fan, it’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to stave off the summer heat outdoors.

If you already have a pool in your backyard, you understand the importance of water when it comes to staying cool this season, but for those with pool envy, work with what you have. There are plenty of ways to add a splash of water to your outdoor space. A simple lawn sprinkler can be surprisingly fun (yes, even for grown-ups), and misting hoses that attach to your pergola or patio are super affordable. If you're into DIY trends, look into a stock tank pool, a kiddie pool, or cold plunge tubs—they’re quirky, cute, and perfect for a quick dip when the sun’s burning a little too hot. Even filling a bucket with ice water for your feet can do wonders if you're sitting out for a while. Low effort, high reward. And speaking of ice, don’t forget to keep drinks on hand.

Whether it’s water, lemonade, sangria, or something a little stronger (hello, margaritas), having a well-stocked drink station outside is a summer essential. And because backyard floors and pool decks aren’t exactly glass-friendly, shatterproof drinkware is the way to go. Acrylic glasses come in all the fun shapes—wine glasses, martini glasses, margarita glasses, you name it—and they look great without the risk of breaking mid-toast.

Bonus points for having a big drink dispenser with something refreshing. Your guests (and your future self) will thank you.

One of the smartest ways to avoid overheating outside? Plan your hangouts around the sun. Early mornings and late evenings are usually cooler compared to midday outdoor hangs, and they come with the added bonus of golden hour lighting and the potential for a cool breeze.

Stave off the dark with string lights, lanterns, or candles to make your backyard feel cozy and inviting after dark, and you’ll see that you don’t have to retreat indoors every time the thermometer spikes. With a few tweaks—some shade here, a breeze there, and a cold drink close by—you can keep enjoying your backyard all season long.

Staying cool in the summer is all about enhancing your space with some helpful tools and a little creativity. So grab your sunscreen and make the most of sunny days.