A beverage cart is amazingly simple, offers the ultimate in poolside drink service convenience, and you can also pull it up next to any cozy poolside seating area. Just remember that its close proximity to the pool will most likely mean that it will get wet from time to time. So, it is a good idea to purchase a stainless steel cart or one made from plastic material and it is best to forgo any paper products like beverage napkins.

If you are of the “go big or go home” mentality, the other end of the spectrum is a swim up bar with underwater seats actually permanently affixed to your pool. Ideally, you may want to construct your swim up bar with a wet side and a dry side, to accommodate “patrons” both in and out of the pool. The downsides of this option are that it is far more costly and is typically limited to those with concrete pools.

A much cheaper, easier alternative is a poolside pallet bar, providing casual appeal that can even be portable if yours folds up. An island poolside bar – with a mini-fridge, sink and barware storage – is pretty great too!

Or how about a shady respite tiki style? You can construct a bar with a tiki roof or cover an overhang with tiki grass that tops off a poolside bar with stools. Place tiki torches around your pool to continue the theme.