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21 Best Outdoor Lighting Ideas to Make Your Space Cozy and Inviting

From string lights to solar lights, these patio lighting ideas will set the mood.

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When it comes to curating our dream homes, most of us tend to focus on what's happening indoors. But, once we've got the design layout finished, it's time to take a look at what's happening in our outside spaces. Especially in these days, when any social experience is more than likely happening out-of-doors, perhaps around a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, it seems like every outdoor space—even a balcony—is an opportunity to create someplace warm and inviting—and that means paying attention to the lighting.

After all, if you have ever scrolled through Instagram and seen all the great backyard ideas to illuminate outdoor spaces (from patio lighting ideas to garden lighting features), then you know that the right lights can make even a cramped, out-of-the-way spot seem almost magical. The options are endless. (Even better to open up a small backyard!) Whether you have a sprawling seaside green space or a narrow apartment overlook, Instagram users near and far have ideas of how you can decorate it.

Because it’d be pretty cruel to tell you all of this without actually showing you some evidence, we rounded up the best outdoor lighting ideas to help make the most of every inch of your real estate. If you’re looking for warm-weather ideas, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for ways to cozy up outside with candlelight in the middle of fall, we’ve got that too. Have we captured your attention? Good. Keep scrolling to find the whimsical outdoor lighting that suits your fancy.

1

Waterside String Lights

outdoor patio lighting ideas with a group of friends in a backyard at night
H20 Bungalow

Whether you have an ocean- or river-side sitting area or simply a spacious backyard sans water, hanging simple string lights can make a major impact. And, if you don’t have trees to hang them from, you’ll be glad this DIY teaches you how to craft poles.

Get the tutorial at H2O Bungalow.

SHOP STRING LIGHTS

2

Hanging Solar Lights

Hanging Solar Lights
2

Hanging Solar Lights

$36 at Wayfair

These waterproof solar lanterns are well suited for hanging on tree limbs in the garden, placing on the patio table or anywhere you want some moody soft lighting.

3

Nature in the City Lights

outdoor patio lighting ideas with a group of friends in a backyard at night
Instagram / @thedcnative

Living in the city has its perks, but if you’re a nature lover, you might feel like something’s missing. Here’s one way to get back to your green roots without actually uprooting yourself. Plus, how dreamy are these icicle lights?

See more at thedcnative.

SHOP ICICLE LIGHTS

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4

Suspension Outdoor String Light Poles (4 Pack)

Suspension Outdoor String Light Poles (4 Pack)
4

Suspension Outdoor String Light Poles (4 Pack)

Whether you want to hang lights across your fence, enclosed porch, or deck, these heavy duty and lightweight poles will effortless mount across a variety of of structures (including door eaves). The added bonus: no assembly or base are needed!

5

Seaside String Lights

seaside green patio lighting ideas
World Market

If you live near the ocean (or you simply love the cool hues of the colors inspired by it), consider these soft and warm blue and green lights. Each string has 30 bulbs.

Shop Hanging Lights

6

Nostalgic Mason Jar Lights

Nostalgic Mason Jar Lights
6

Nostalgic Mason Jar Lights

Whether you're hosting a festive outdoor party or lounging on the patio to take in the evening breeze, these convenient battery operated LED mason jars will provide all of the light you need. They even work about 10,000 hours before a replacement bulb is needed.

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7

Cozy Balcony Lights

outdoor lighting ideas balcony
Instagram / @tarzmeselesi

If you’re working with a small space like an apartment balcony, consider lighting it up with fairy star lights.

See more at tarzmeselesi.

SHOP STAR FAIRY LIGHTS

8

Paper Ball Lights

outdoor lighting ideas paper ball string lights
Instagram / @beau_wonen

For a more natural vibe, opt for paper ball lights over classic class bulbs. These remind us of beachy nights in the Hamptons, Malibu, and on the Gulf Coast.

SHOP PAPER STRING LIGHTS

9

Garden Solar Ball Lights (Set of 2)

Garden Solar Ball Lights (Set of 2)
9

Garden Solar Ball Lights (Set of 2)

Now 38% Off

These creative cracked glass textured outdoor solar lights will accent any garden space with a romantic note. On top of the unique look, these golden orbs are solar powered and waterproof!

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10

Table in the Woods Lights

outdoor lighting ideas tree string lights
Instagram / @jodie.thedesigntwins

If you’re working with a wooded backyard, make use of nature and string lights from the branches. Place a table and chairs underneath for the perfect summertime dinner party setup.

SHOP STRING LIGHTS

11

Elegant Outdoor Lights

Elegant Outdoor Lights
11

Elegant Outdoor Lights

Credit: Wayfair

Add an air of sophisticated style to your patio, deck, and backyard seating areas. These versatile lanterns include candles with a rechargeable solar panel and a convenient rope handle.

12

Summer Balcony Sanctuary Lights

outdoor lighting ideas balcony
Instagram / @gozdee81

Battery-operated candles, fairy string lights, and round paper lights make for a dreamy summer balcony situation. Just imagine cozying up with a book or your best friends in this picture-perfect setting.

See more at gozdee81.

SHOP FAIRY LIGHTS

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13

Warm Curtain Lights

Warm Curtain Lights
13

Warm Curtain Lights

Now 49% Off
Credit: Wayfair

If mosquitoes are a concern, consider pairing these curtain lights with netting for coverage and illumination. They’re available in warm white, blue, and daylight hues.

14

Bohemian Summer Balcony Lights

outdoor lighting ideas boho balcony
Instagram / @gozdee81

With paper grass wall hangings, straw lanterns, woven pillows and ottomans, this well-lit balcony is a Bohemian dream. Imagine streaming Netflix or getting lost in conversation with friends out here.

See more at gozdee81.

SHOP BATTERY-OPERATED CANDLES

15

Modern Brass String Lights

Modern Brass String Lights
15

Modern Brass String Lights

Now 15% Off
Credit: West Elm

Want to give your outdoor dinner party a touch of chic flair? These sophisticate brushed brass string lights will do the trick and light up any corner of your gracious backyard space.

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16

Garden Solar Hanging Lights

Garden Solar Hanging Lights
16

Garden Solar Hanging Lights

Now 23% Off

Consider adding waterproof hanging lanterns to your backyard. This set of waterproof LED mission lights will provide ample light to tables or can be used to illuminate the yard during an alfresco movie night in the garden.

17

Comfy Reading Nook Lights

outdoor lighting ideas candles
Instagram / @smyk_w_kuchni_blog

Even small balconies can turn into outdoor lighting masterpieces. Here, a vintage star light, candles, and classic string lights bring the comfy look together.

See more at smyk_w_kuchni_blog.

SHOP OUTDOOR LIGHTS

18

Whimsical Icicle Cluster Lights

 Whimsical Icicle Cluster Lights
18

Whimsical Icicle Cluster Lights

From porches to pergolas, these waterproof LED lights add a bit of magical flair to your spaces. Plus, the remote controlled set features eight different lighting modes with two separate timer modes and adjustable brightness options.

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19

Autumn Safe Haven Lights

outdoor lighting ideas black string lights
Instagram / @gozdee81

Just because it’s chillier in the fall doesn’t mean you can’t sit outdoors. With this well-lit set-up, you’ll be able to cozy up with your loved ones while enjoying the seasonal weather.

See more at gozdee81.

SHOP BLACK STRING LIGHTS

20

Glowing Fairy Lights

 Glowing Fairy Lights
20

Glowing Fairy Lights

Credit: Wayfair

These pretty outdoor LED solar powered fairy string lights includes 1oo bulbs and add a glowy hue to any yard space or fixture without the worry of plugging in or changing a lightbulb.

Headshot of Rebecca Norris
Rebecca Norris
Contributing Writer

Rebecca Ravee Norris is a freelance writer with a decade's worth of lifestyle media experience. Based out of the Washington metropolitan area, she covers everything from beauty and wellness to style and celebrity news. She is a graduate of George Mason University and has a B.A. in Media: Production, Consumption, and Critique, along with a minor in Electronic Journalism. When she's not writing, she can be found with her beloved Jack-Chi, Cash, working through reps at the gym, dreaming up her next home decor project, testing a new recipe, getting lost in the pages of a book, or catching up on her favorite shows. 

Lettermark

Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop.  

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