Hey there! Ready to transform your backyard into the ultimate tropical oasis? Look no further than this shopping checklist for all your Tiki Bar essentials. From bamboo barstools to vibrant tiki torches, this article has got you covered on everything you’ll need to create the perfect island-inspired hangout spot. So grab a piña colada, kick back, and let’s get shopping!
Barware and Tools
Cocktail Shaker
The first item on your shopping checklist for your very own tiki bar is a cocktail shaker. The cocktail shaker is an essential tool for any aspiring tiki mixologist. It allows you to combine and mix your ingredients with ease, ensuring that all the flavors are well blended and perfectly chilled.
Strainer
Next on the list is a strainer, which is used to separate the liquid from the solids or ice when pouring your delicious concoctions. A good strainer will ensure that your drinks are smooth and free from any unwanted bits, giving you a more enjoyable drinking experience.
Muddler
To bring out the full flavors of certain ingredients like fruits and herbs, you’ll need a muddler. This tool allows you to crush and extract the juices and oils while releasing their aromatic qualities. Perfect for muddling mint leaves for a refreshing mojito or mashing up fresh fruit for a tropical twist.
Bar Spoon
A bar spoon is a versatile tool that every tiki bar should have. It is designed with a long handle and a spiral at the end, allowing you to stir and mix your drinks with precision and elegance. From layering different ingredients to creating a gentle stir, a bar spoon is a must-have for any master mixologist.
Jigger
Accurate measurements are essential when it comes to crafting the perfect cocktail. That’s where a jigger comes in handy. This double-sided measuring tool allows you to easily measure out precise amounts of spirits and other ingredients, ensuring that your drinks are balanced and well-proportioned.
Citrus Juicer
No tiki bar is complete without fresh citrus juice. A citrus juicer will allow you to squeeze every last drop of juice from lemons, limes, and oranges, adding tangy and refreshing flavors to your tropical drinks. Whether you’re making a classic margarita or a zesty daiquiri, a citrus juicer is a must-have tool.
Glassware
Tiki Mugs
Tiki mugs are an essential element of any tiki bar. These fun and unique ceramic mugs come in a variety of designs, from traditional tiki faces to tropical motifs. Not only do they add a touch of authenticity to your tiki bar, but they also enhance the overall presentation of your tropical cocktails, making them a delight for both the eyes and taste buds.
Highball Glasses
Highball glasses are tall and sleek, perfect for serving refreshing tropical drinks like the classic Mai Tai or the vibrant Blue Hawaiian. These versatile glasses are a staple in any tiki bar, providing an elegant vessel for your delicious creations.
Collins Glasses
Collins glasses are similar to highball glasses but with a narrower and taller design. They are typically used for serving gin-based cocktails, like the popular Tom Collins. With their slender shape, Collins glasses showcase the colors and layers of your drinks, making them visually appealing.
Hurricane Glasses
If you’re looking to impress your guests with the grandeur of your tiki bar, hurricane glasses are a must-have. With their unique shape and large capacity, these glasses are perfect for serving tropical cocktails with vibrant colors and multiple layers. A hurricane glass adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any tiki bar setup.
Shot Glasses
Shot glasses are essential for measuring small amounts of spirits and for serving shots and mini cocktails. These small but mighty glasses are perfect for sampling different tiki recipes or creating a flight of tropical shots for your guests to enjoy. With their compact size, shot glasses are also great for creating personalized drink recipes and experimenting with flavor combinations.
Ingredients
Rum
No tiki bar is complete without rum – the quintessential ingredient for tropical cocktails. From light and crisp white rum to rich and caramel notes of dark rum, there are endless possibilities to explore. Stock up on a variety of rums to create a diverse range of tiki drinks, from classic favorites to modern twists.
Fruit Juices
Fresh fruit juices are the key to creating delicious and refreshing tropical cocktails. From citrus favorites like lime and pineapple to exotic flavors like passion fruit and guava, the possibilities are endless. Be sure to have a variety of fruit juices stocked in your tiki bar to allow for endless creative combinations.
Syrups and Mixers
To add depth and complexity to your tropical drinks, you’ll need a selection of syrups and mixers. Traditional tiki syrups like orgeat (almond syrup) and falernum (spicy lime syrup) are essential for creating classic tiki cocktails. Additionally, having a variety of flavored syrups like coconut, mango, and vanilla will allow you to experiment and create your own unique tiki creations.
Bitters
Bitters are a crucial ingredient in many classic cocktails, and tiki drinks are no exception. A few drops of aromatic bitters can elevate the flavors of your drinks and add a pleasant bitter note. Angostura bitters and orange bitters are common choices for tiki cocktails, so be sure to have them on hand.
Garnishes
Garnishes are the finishing touch that adds visual appeal and aromatic accents to your tropical drinks. From citrus twists and fresh herbs to tropical fruits and colorful cocktail umbrellas, garnishes can take your tiki creations to the next level. So, stock up on a variety of garnishes to add that extra wow factor to your drinks.
Tropical Decor
Bamboo Bar Set
Creating a tropical ambiance in your tiki bar is essential to transport you and your guests to an island paradise. A bamboo bar set is an excellent addition to your tiki bar decor, providing an authentic and natural touch. From bamboo bar stools to a bamboo bar counter, this eco-friendly material adds a tropical vibe to your setup.
Tiki Torches
For outdoor tiki bars, tiki torches are a must. Not only do they provide ambient lighting, but they also add a touch of tropical flair to your outdoor space. Just be sure to follow safety guidelines when using tiki torches and keep them away from any flammable materials.
Hawaiian Print Tablecloth
Add a splash of color and tropical charm to your tiki bar with a Hawaiian print tablecloth. The vibrant and eye-catching patterns of traditional Hawaiian prints instantly transport you to the islands. Choose a tablecloth that complements your barware and glassware, creating a cohesive and visually appealing tiki bar setup.
Palm Leaf Serving Trays
Serve your tropical creations in style with palm leaf serving trays. These eco-friendly and biodegradable trays add a natural and beachy touch to your tiki bar. Perfect for serving appetizers, snacks, or even a round of tropical cocktails, palm leaf trays are a sustainable and visually pleasing addition to your bar decor.
Tropical Wall Art
Complete the tropical ambiance of your tiki bar with some vibrant and colorful wall art. From paintings of island landscapes to vintage tiki art, there are endless options to choose from. Hang a few pieces of tropical wall art to set the mood and immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of your own making.
Tiki Bar Accessories
Coasters
Protect your tiki bar counters and tables with tiki-inspired coasters. These small but essential accessories not only serve a practical purpose but also add to the overall tiki aesthetic. Look for coasters featuring tiki faces, tropical motifs, or bamboo designs to match your bar decor.
Drink Umbrellas
No tiki drink is complete without a festive drink umbrella. These colorful and whimsical additions instantly transform any drink into a tropical delight. Whether you’re sipping on a classic Mai Tai or a fruity Piña Colada, a drink umbrella adds a fun and playful touch to your tiki drinks.
Tiki Drink Stirrers
Take your cocktail presentation to the next level with tiki drink stirrers. These miniature tiki idols or tropical-themed stirrers are perfect for mixing your drinks and adding a touch of tiki charm. Choose stirrers made from bamboo, wood, or plastic, and let them enhance the visual appeal of your tiki creations.
Bottle Openers
Bottle openers are a practical accessory that every tiki bar needs. From opening bottles of beer to uncorking wine for tiki wine-based cocktails, a reliable bottle opener is a must. Opt for a tiki-inspired bottle opener to stay on-theme and add a touch of fun to your bar accessories.
Ice Cube Trays
Keep your drinks chilled and visually appealing with ice cube trays in unique shapes. From tiki mask-shaped ice cubes to tropical fruit molds, these fun ice cube trays add a playful touch to your tiki drinks. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create flavorful ice cubes that will enhance your tropical creations.
Music and Entertainment
Hawaiian Music CDs
Set the mood and transport yourself to a tropical paradise with Hawaiian music CDs. With their distinctive melodies and soothing rhythms, Hawaiian music creates an authentic ambiance that enhances the overall tiki bar experience. Choose a mix of traditional Hawaiian music and contemporary island sounds to keep the tropical vibes flowing.
Tiki Bar Playlist
Create your own tiki bar playlist to complement the ambiance of your tiki bar. Mix classic Hawaiian tunes with tiki-themed songs and tropical beats to set the mood. From exotica and surf rock to reggae and steel drums, let the music take you on a journey to the islands without leaving your own backyard.
Luau Party Games
Take your tiki bar gatherings to the next level with some fun luau party games. From traditional Hawaiian games like hula dancing competitions and limbo contests to tiki-themed trivia and tropical treasure hunts, these games will keep your guests entertained and create a lively atmosphere. Get everyone involved and embrace the playful spirit of the tiki culture.
Fire Dancers DVD
For a truly mesmerizing and exotic entertainment option, consider adding a fire dancers DVD to your collection. This captivating performance art will leave your guests in awe as they watch the hypnotic movements of the fire dancers. Just be sure to prioritize safety and follow guidelines if you decide to incorporate live fire dancing in your tiki bar.
Ukulele
Unleash your inner musician with a ukulele. This traditional Hawaiian instrument is lightweight and easy to play, making it perfect for creating an authentic and laid-back island atmosphere. Learn a few chords and strum away as you sip on your tropical creations, adding a personal touch of music to your tiki bar gatherings.
Lighting
String Lights
Create a magical and enchanting atmosphere with string lights. These versatile lights can be hung overhead or wrapped around palm trees, creating a warm and inviting glow in your tiki bar space. Opt for string lights in colors that complement your tiki bar theme, such as warm white for a cozy feel or vibrant hues for a festive atmosphere.
LED Tiki Torch
If you want the ambiance of traditional tiki torches without the flame, consider using LED tiki torches. These modern alternatives provide a flickering flame-like effect without the fire hazard. LED tiki torches are a safe and energy-efficient option for incorporating tiki-style lighting in your outdoor tiki bar setup.
Lava Lamps
For a retro touch to your tiki bar, lava lamps are a fun and quirky lighting option. The mesmerizing, flowing blobs of colored wax create a playful and psychedelic ambiance. Choose lava lamps in tropical colors like orange, yellow, or green to enhance the tiki vibe of your space.
Mood Lighting
Set the mood and create a relaxing ambiance with mood lighting. Soft and dimmable lights create a cozy and intimate atmosphere in your tiki bar, perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying a romantic evening. Combine different lighting elements, such as wall sconces, pendant lights, and table lamps, to create a well-lit yet relaxing space.
Tiki Lanterns
Add the perfect finishing touch to your outdoor tiki bar with tiki lanterns. These lanterns, often made from bamboo or other natural materials, provide a warm and comforting glow. Hang them from the branches of your palm trees or place them strategically around your outdoor seating area to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Seating and Furniture
Rattan Bar Stools
Comfortable seating is essential in any tiki bar, and rattan bar stools provide both comfort and style. The natural rattan material brings an organic and tropical vibe to your tiki bar, and the bar stool height is perfect for sitting and sipping your favorite tropical drinks. Look for stools with comfortable cushions to ensure your guests are comfortable even during long nights of tiki bar fun.
Tiki Bar Table
Complete your tiki bar setup with a tiki bar table. These tables, typically made from bamboo or other tropical materials, provide a sturdy and stylish surface for mixing and serving drinks. Look for a tiki bar table that matches the overall theme and size of your tiki bar for a cohesive and visually appealing setup.
Outdoor Patio Lounge Set
If you have space available, consider adding an outdoor patio lounge set to your tiki bar area. These comfortable and stylish furniture sets allow your guests to relax and unwind in the tropical oasis you’ve created. From lounge chairs and sofas to coffee tables and side tables, choose pieces that are weather-resistant and durable for long-lasting enjoyment.
Beach Chairs
For a more casual and laid-back seating option, beach chairs are a must. These foldable chairs are perfect for outdoor tiki bars or for taking to the beach for a tiki-inspired picnic. Look for beach chairs in vibrant and tropical colors to add a playful touch to your tiki bar seating area.
Hammock
For the ultimate relaxation spot in your tiki bar, consider adding a hammock. This iconic symbol of leisure and tropical living is perfect for swaying gently while sipping on your favorite tiki drinks. Set up a hammock between two palm trees or use a freestanding hammock stand for easy setup and relaxation wherever you desire.
Tiki Bar Signage
Wooden Tiki Bar Sign
No tiki bar is complete without a captivating wooden tiki bar sign. These handcrafted and intricately carved signs add a touch of authenticity and tropical charm to your tiki bar. Hang them near the entrance or above your tiki bar counter to welcome your guests to your little slice of paradise.
Customizable Tiki Bar Sign
If you want a personalized touch, consider a customizable tiki bar sign. These signs allow you to add your own name or message, making it uniquely yours. Whether you want to display your family name or come up with a catchy tiki bar name, a customizable sign is a great way to add a personal touch to your tiki bar decor.
Neon Tiki Bar Sign
For a modern twist on traditional tiki bar signage, consider a neon tiki bar sign. These vibrant and eye-catching signs add a touch of retro coolness to your tiki bar. Hang them on a wall or place them in a prominent spot to create a focal point in your tiki bar decor.
Vintage Tiki Bar Posters
If you’re a fan of vintage aesthetics, vintage tiki bar posters are a great addition to your tiki bar decor. These colorful and nostalgic posters feature classic tiki imagery and can transport you and your guests back to the golden age of tiki culture. Frame and hang them on the walls of your tiki bar for a dose of retro charm.
Hand-painted Tiki Bar Sign
For a truly unique and one-of-a-kind tiki bar sign, consider a hand-painted option. These signs are often crafted by talented local artists and add an artisanal touch to your tiki bar decor. Choose a design that speaks to your personal style and preferences, and support local artists by commissioning a hand-painted tiki bar sign.
Tiki Bar Books
The Ultimate Guide to Tiki Bars
For those looking to learn more about the history and culture of tiki bars, “The Ultimate Guide to Tiki Bars” is a must-read. This comprehensive guide takes you on a journey through the origins of tiki culture, provides recommendations for the best tiki bars around the world, and showcases signature tiki cocktails.
Tiki Road Trip
For those with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the tiki world, “Tiki Road Trip” is the perfect companion. This travel guide takes you on a road trip through America’s most iconic tiki bars, offering insights into their history, decor, and drink menus. Embark on a tiki adventure and discover hidden tiki gems along the way.
Beachbum Berry’s Potions of the Caribbean
For cocktail enthusiasts, “Beachbum Berry’s Potions of the Caribbean” is a treasure trove of tiki drink recipes. This book delves into the secrets of the legendary tiki drink inventors and provides step-by-step instructions for recreating their iconic creations. Expand your cocktail repertoire and impress your friends with exotic and delicious tiki drinks.
The Art of Tiki
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of tiki art with “The Art of Tiki.” This coffee table book showcases the vibrant and diverse art forms inspired by tiki culture. From retro illustrations to contemporary sculptures, this book celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship of tiki artists and provides a visual feast for the eyes.
Tiki Pop
For a deeper exploration of the cultural impact of tiki, “Tiki Pop” offers a comprehensive look at the rise and resurgence of tiki culture. This book explores the intersection of art, design, and popular culture, showcasing how tiki has influenced music, fashion, film, and more. Dive into the fascinating world of tiki and discover its enduring appeal throughout the decades.