Looking to make your pool area more than just a place to swim? Follow these tips to transform your backyard pool into an ideal space for entertainment, play, and relaxation so that you can embrace all the little joys of summer.

Bring on the shade (or sun)

You might already have seating alongside your pool, but consider purchasing a few lounge chairs with adjustable hoods attached to the backs of the seats. This dome shaped seating lets you lay back and relax on its cushioned surface, soaking up the sun or taking cover underneath the shade of the hood when your skin needs a break. You’re guaranteed to spend more time by your pool if you have the option to take time away from the sun when necessary.

Step up your culinary game

Who says all you need is a lone grill for outdoor eating? Make your pool area a space where you feel comfortable bringing guests to share a drink or meal. Consider getting an outdoor refrigerator so that you can store cool drinks to sip on by the water. Keep your grill near a table and chairs so that you can talk to friends and family while serving up barbecued favorites.

Channel your inner decorator

Decorations can completely set the tone for your pool area—changing your standard pool into a welcoming retreat. Place tiki torches along the perimeter, preferably far from the water. Hang up white lights along the fence or along any back walls of your home adjacent to the pool. Lighting creates a warm, inviting feeling for evening swims. Summer-themed art and quotes along with “Pool Rules” signs can also bring your pool area some much-needed character.

Float around

Stock up on a few floats that adults and kids alike will enjoy. Whether you want to lay back and float along the water or your kids want to pretend they’re riding whales through the ocean, floats offer a little something for everyone while simultaneously brightening up your space.

Hide the clutter

Nothing is more unappealing than a pool area littered with toys, cleaning equipment, and everything in between. Fix this problem by finding storage containers that are both attractive and keep everything neatly tucked away when no one is using it. Large bins with lids are helpful for stowing everything away to keep your pool space looking polished.

Have s’more fun

What better way to bring people together than roasting marshmallows on a warm summer night? Set up a circle of chairs around a poolside fire pit. Store skewers so that you’re always ready to roast a marshmallow, hot dogs, or whatever else comes to mind. Sit back and enjoy the conversation (and snacks) that come with this upgrade to your pool area.

Your backyard pool is the perfect place to make summer memories that will last a lifetime. Why not take some time to improve your pool area to make it a place you enjoy even more than you already do?