Tiki Bar Materials for Creating a Polynesian Paradise in Your Back Yard

Tiki styles, which were at the height of popularity in the 1970s, are now making a comeback. To enjoy the relaxing feeling of Polynesian culture right in your own back yard, you can build your own Tiki bar or Tiki hut.

These little pieces of paradise for the yard can be built from kits ordered on-line. In just a few days, you can be blending frozen drinks for your family and friends.

Tiki bars and Tiki huts are framed with wood or bamboo, and have side panels of the same construction. The tropical climates where Tiki bars and Tiki huts originated are hot and humid, causing storms to produce heavy rains and high winds. Tiki bars and Tiki huts are made to withstand that climate, with thatched roofs that seldom leak, and provide a cool shade. These structures are popular on decks, patios and poolside. The electrical system may or may not be included in a Tiki bar kit, but you should follow local codes when installing electrical outlets.

Building your own Tiki bar

You can save a lot of money by building your own Tiki bar. The simplicity of building one doesn’t really call for a contractor. If you need tips, advice or plans, an e-book by Kevin Dunn is on the Internet. It is a comprehensive book with illustrations, photos, step by step instructions, advice for treating and maintaining building material, as well as where to find the harder to find materials for a Tiki bar like bamboo poles and palm leaves. You may want to make it a palapa, which is an open sided building with a thatched roof. These buildings are usually found as a bar or small restaurant in a tropical resort.

Decorating with Tiki Accessories

You can complete the tropical feeling of your South Pacific themed Tiki bar with Tiki accessories, such as a Tiki totem pole, carved Tiki masks, idols and signs pointing the distance to your favorite tropical destinations. Tiki bar umbrellas are generally made from natural materials. The center pole and latilla supports are made from southwestern pine. The umbrella part is called the “rain cape” and is hand woven in Mexico, providing an authentic Tiki look.

More outdoor resources:
Outdoor patio
Indoor furniture ideas
Outdoor landscaping ideas
Back yard patio decor
Pools and outdoor spas

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