Living in a coastal state provides many opportunities to enjoy an ocean-side vacation. Still, there are downsides to visiting a public beach. Depending on where you are in Florida, you could live hours away from the coast. Even if you live near the beach, you could deal with crowds and chaos you don’t want to face as a local.

If you have even a small amount of outdoor space at your home, you can transform it into the perfect, relaxing vacation area. Here are seven ideas for making your yard a personal paradise.

1. Water Feature

Whether you live in central Florida or on the coast, nothing beats having flowing water in your backyard. Water is proven to relax people and could be why many gravitate towards it for vacations. Whether you have a pool, hot tub or fountain, engaging with it can make you feel like you have your own oasis.

You can make a fountain with a few simple steps. All you need is a reservoir, water pump, power source and whatever material you choose to structure it with. Ideas for your feature include flower pots, stones or cinder blocks.

Another idea is to install a pond. You can create a place to dip your feet or introduce fish to care for and watch.

2. Outdoor Bar

Nothing makes a yard feel like a vacation more than a refreshing cocktail. You can make your favorite drinks in your yard with an outdoor bar you can purchase or craft yourself.

You could make a full bar with chairs and an awning or simply stock it with your favorite ingredients. Include a cooler or outdoor freezer to chill your drinks and store ice outdoors — guests won’t want to leave your taste of paradise.

If you want to enjoy an outdoor bar but don’t want to maintain it, consider a mini bar or cart you can easily move inside and outside so the staycation never stops.

3. Wood Cabana

The Florida sun can be brutal, but you can relax in the fresh air with your cabana. Building a sturdy outdoor shelter can beat the heat and create the perfect gathering space.

You can build your cabana out of cedar to protect against storms, giving you a private vacation spot that lasts years. They serve as an excellent shade source and can create a focal point for all your outdoor events.

Choose a cabana with a solid roof, allowing you to add lighting and fans. You could also choose an open option that gives you extra sunshine.

4. Beach Seating

Create a resort experience through the seating you use. Poolside chairs, hammocks and outdoor couches can make you feel like you’re on the seaside.

Relax in the sun with a drink in hand, hang out with friends and family, or use them to tan or hang out by the water. You can create more of a beachy feel by complementing your chairs with an umbrella or outdoor rug.

5. Sand Court

If you have ample space, you can bring more of the beach to your home by adding a sand court. You can create a standard 8-by-16-meter beach volleyball court, or an area where your family can make sandcastles and play together.

You can set chairs in your court to make you look like you’re on your favorite beach at home. However, a deep sand court may require some digging. For a less invasive version, build a frame to create a lifted court.

6. Tropical Plants

Tropical plants thrive in the state’s heat and humidity, and adding some to your exterior can help it feel more like being at your favorite seaside resort. From the aptly-named white bird of paradise to colorful hibiscus, you can create paradise right in your backyard.

Consider adding fruit trees to contribute color and tasty treats to your private vacation destination. If you struggle with relaxation due to seeing other homes and street traffic, add palm trees around your yard to shield it from the outside world.

7. Fire Pit

A beach bonfire on a cool night is a wonderful way to enjoy time with family and friends. Adding a fire pit to your outdoor space can create a similar effect.

There are in-ground and above-ground options of different shapes, materials and sizes. You can enjoy cooking meals and treats over the flames, share stories, and enjoy the fire's light and warmth. Before you burn, it’s important to check local and state resources for whether it’s safe to do so.

Creating an Outdoor Vacation Spot

Florida can be a fantastic place to live, with more than 800,000 people flocking to the state to stay each winter. With these ideas, you can create a vacation paradise on your property.