20 Best Backyard Lighting Ideas: Illuminate Your Outdoor Space Professionally

The best backyard lighting ideas are perfect for setting the right mood and making an outdoor space usable. Whether you’re entertaining a big group, or just hanging out with your family, the right lighting can make all the difference.

There are a lot of different options out there for lighting your backyard, and it can be overwhelming to try and figure out which ones are right for you. So, we’ve put together a list of 20 of the best backyard lighting ideas to help you get inspired.

1. String Lights

String lights are a classic way to add light to your outdoor space. They’re easy to install and come in a variety of styles and lengths.

For a more permanent look, install a string light pole in your yard. This is a great option if you don’t have a porch or deck to hang the lights from.

2. Pergola with String Lights

If you have a pergola or gazebo, you can easily string lights along the top of it. This will help to define the space and make it feel more intimate.

The lights in this photo are also hung from the top of the pergola, but they are draped in a zig-zag pattern. This is a great way to add some visual interest.

3. Outdoor Chandelier

If you have a large outdoor dining table, a chandelier is a great way to light the space. This outdoor chandelier is a little more casual than the traditional crystal chandeliers you might see in a formal dining room.

The wood and metal design make it perfect for a rustic or farmhouse space. Hang it above your dining table or in the center of your patio seating area.

4. Landscape Lighting

Landscape lighting is a great way to elevate your backyard. It’s a versatile option that can be used in a variety of ways. You can use landscape lighting to highlight your favorite features in your yard, such as trees, shrubs, or flowers. You can also use it to create a more dramatic look in your yard by using shadowing or silhouetting techniques. And, of course, you can use landscape lighting to create a more inviting atmosphere in your yard.

When it comes to landscape lighting, you have a few different options. You can use low-voltage lighting, which is easy to install and can be used in a variety of ways. You can also use solar-powered lighting, which is energy-efficient and easy to install. And, if you’re looking for a more high-tech option, you can use smart lighting, which can be controlled with your smartphone.

5. Outdoor Wall Sconces

If you want to add permanent lighting to your patio, deck, or porch, consider installing outdoor wall sconces. These fixtures come in a variety of styles and designs, and they’re hardwired into your home’s electrical system.

These sconces feature a mission-style design and a warm bronze finish. They have a built-in LED light and a photocell that turns the light on at dusk and off at dawn.

6. Outdoor Floor Lamps

If you’re looking for something a little different than the typical outdoor table lamps, consider these outdoor floor lamps. They’re perfect for casting a warm glow over your patio and are a great option if you don’t have a table to place a lamp on.

This lamp is made of a durable, weather-resistant resin material and comes with a two-year warranty. It’s also compatible with a 100-watt incandescent bulb or a 26-watt CFL, so you can choose the brightness level that’s best for your space.

7. Outdoor Table Lamps

Table lamps are a great way to add a cozy, room-like feel to your outdoor dining area. They provide just the right amount of warm, ambient light and are perfect for setting the mood for a romantic dinner or a small, intimate gathering.

This outdoor table lamp is made of weather-resistant materials, so you can leave it out all season long. It comes with a battery-powered LED light, which can be dimmed to create the perfect ambiance. And with a run time of up to 24 hours on a single charge, you won’t have to worry about it going out in the middle of your dinner party.

8. Outdoor LED Lighting

LED lights are a popular choice for outdoor lighting because they’re energy-efficient, long-lasting, and emit very little heat. They’re also available in a variety of colors, which makes them a fun option for outdoor parties and events.

One of the best things about LED lights is that they can be used in so many different ways. You can find LED string lights, lanterns, and even LED candles to create a warm, inviting glow for your outdoor space.

9. Outdoor Candle Lanterns

Candle lanterns have been used for centuries to light up outdoor spaces. They’re an easy, portable way to add a soft, flickering glow to your patio table, steps, or anywhere in your backyard.

These outdoor lanterns from Wayfair are made of metal and feature a decorative cutout design. The lanterns are available in three sizes and can be used with LED candles or real wax candles.

10. Solar Lights

Solar lights are a great option if you’re looking for a more sustainable lighting solution. There are a variety of solar-powered outdoor lighting options, including string lights, spotlights, and more.

These solar-powered LED string lights are perfect for illuminating an outdoor dining area. You can hang them from a pergola or drape them across the table to create a warm, inviting glow. And since they’re solar-powered, you don’t have to worry about running an extension cord to an outlet. Simply place the solar panel in direct sunlight and the lights will charge throughout the day.

11. Mason Jar Lanterns

Mason jar lanterns are a simple yet beautiful way to light up your patio or garden. You can make your own with just a few materials, or purchase pre-made lanterns.

This set of three solar-powered mason jar lights comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and each light can last up to eight hours.

12. Tiki Torches

Tiki torches are a fun way to add light to your backyard. They’re also a great way to keep the bugs away. Tiki torches use citronella oil to help keep mosquitoes at bay.

These come with a deck mount, so you can keep them in place. You can also use a torch stake to keep them in place in your yard.

13. Fire Pit

If you’re lucky enough to have a fire pit in your backyard, you probably already know that it’s a great way to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests. But if you really want to take your fire pit to the next level, surround it with a few well-placed lights.

You can use tiki torches, string lights, or even paver lights to create a soft, ambient glow around your fire pit. If you’re using a gas fire pit, make sure that your lighting choices are safe to use around an open flame.

14. Pool Lighting

If you have a pool, you know that the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. However, you’ll want to make sure you have proper lighting in and around your pool for safety reasons.

There are plenty of lighting options to choose from, from floating pool lights and underwater LED lights to solar-powered landscape lights that you can place around the pool deck. No matter which you choose, adding a little extra light will make your pool area feel even more inviting.

15. Water Feature Lighting

If you have a water feature, such as a pond or waterfall, you can add a serene, spa-like feel to your backyard with the right lighting.

Place lights underwater to illuminate the water, or use a spotlight to cast a glow on the feature from a distance. You can also use lights to highlight any plants or flowers around the water for a more subtle effect.

16. Pathway Lighting

This is a great way to highlight your landscaping while also providing a safe path for guests.

You can use solar lights, like these, or opt for low voltage pathway lights.

17. Deck Lighting

Deck lighting is a great way to add ambiance to your outdoor space. This type of lighting is typically installed on the railings of your deck and is used to illuminate the area below.

Deck lighting comes in a variety of styles, including post cap lights, recessed lights, and even string lights. You can also choose from a variety of colors to create a custom look for your deck.

If you’re looking for a more subtle lighting option, consider adding recessed lights to your deck. These lights are installed flush with the surface of your deck and provide a soft, diffused light. Post cap lights are a great way to add a pop of color to your deck.

18. Step Lighting

If you have a deck in your backyard, you may want to consider adding step lighting. Not only does it make it easier to see where you’re going, but it can also add a fun, modern touch to your deck.

You can find step lights in a variety of styles, including recessed, flush, and surface-mounted. You can also choose from different lighting options, including LED, solar, and low-voltage.

Step lights are also a great way to add safety and security to your backyard.

19. Fence Lighting

This fence lighting from @justcallmecas adds just enough light to make the space feel cozy without being too bright.

To get this look, simply hang string lights along the top of your fence and secure them with zip ties. You can also use a staple gun to attach the string lights to the fence.

20. Outdoor Kitchen Lighting

If you have a full outdoor kitchen, you’ll want to be able to use it at any time of day. But even if you’re just grilling up dinner, you’ll need to see what you’re doing.

Under-cabinet lighting is a great way to light up your outdoor kitchen. This lighting can be installed directly under your cabinets, counters, or shelves, so you have plenty of light to work with.

You can also install LED strip lights along the bottom of your cabinets to give your outdoor kitchen a warm, inviting glow.

Conclusion

The right backyard lighting can help you create the perfect ambiance for a warm summer evening. There are many different options to choose from, so think about the type of lighting that will look best in your space. Then, check out our list of the best backyard lighting ideas to get inspired and get started.