20 Stylish Sun Lounger Ideas For Ultimate Relaxation
When the weather finally warms up, there’s nothing better than lounging in the sun and soaking up some much-needed vitamin D. Whether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy your morning coffee, soak up some sun or host laid-back evening gatherings, the right sun lounger can make all the difference. Explore 20 sun lounger ideas to enhance your outdoor living experience for gardens big and small, and find practical advice on choosing the right one.
Get ready to lounge in luxury and enjoy every moment of sunshine.
What is a sun lounger?
A sun lounger is a reclining chair used for sitting or lying outdoors and is typically regarded as beach-side outdoor furniture. Perfect for relaxing and laying in the sun, you'll often see them dotted around the pool on your summer holidays, but in the UK, you're more likely to find them in a patio or garden.
Many models feature adjustable backrests, allowing you to choose and change your lounging position from sitting up to lying fully flat. Some even include padded cushions and headrests, as well as built-in tables and a canopy or parasol for added comfort and protection from the sun.
A popular choice of garden furniture thanks to its versatility and comfort, here are just a few reasons why you might consider adding sun loungers to your garden:
- Relaxation: Sun loungers are ideal for soaking up the sun, settling down with a good read or enjoying a nap in the fresh air.
- Versatility: Sun loungers can be used in various outdoor settings, giving you the freedom to create your perfect relaxation spot, whether it's by the pool, or under your garden pergola.
- Aesthetics: Available in various styles and materials, sun loungers enhance your garden's overall look and create a more inviting outdoor space.
- Entertainment: Sun loungers provide a comfortable seating option for guests during outdoor catch-ups or family barbecues.
20 sun lounger ideas
1. Add sun loungers on decking
Sempre Double Lounger in Light Grey
Experience tranquil garden pleasure by incorporating a pair of sun loungers onto your garden decking. Choose loungers with materials that complement your decking, like beautiful wood or stylish rattan, to enhance your garden’s aesthetic and create a cohesive look.
This setting is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing near the house, making it convenient to quickly pop back into the kitchen for a cheeky snack or an ice-cool Coke to cool off. Prices vary based on your chosen material and design, but investing in quality ensures longevity and durability.
2. Choose rattan sun loungers for a durable, stylish option
Thanks to their natural woven frame, rattan sun loungers add a touch of laid-back elegance to any outdoor setting. Great for both modern and rustic gardens, high-quality synthetic rattan is resistant to weather and UV damage, making it perfect for the unpredictable British climate.
Natural rattan sun loungers, while beautiful, aren’t quite as robust, meaning you’ll need to store your loungers indoors during cold or wet weather. Consider cushioned models for extra comfort and the ultimate lounging experience.
3. Get a foldaway sun lounger for easy, compact storage 
Luna Outdoor Fabric Sun Lounger in Oyster Grey £799.00
A small balcony or patio doesn’t have to stop you from relaxing in the sunshine. Comfort meets portability thanks to foldaway sun loungers, perfect for smaller spaces and multi-use gardens. Providing garden owners with flexibility and convenience, these loungers are typically lightweight, making them easier to move and store when not in use. This makes them ideal for balconies and small patios.
Available in various materials and styles, they can range from affordable to premium, depending on the quality and features, such as adjustable backrests or padded cushions.
4. Enjoy your sun lounger late into the evening by surrounding it with ambient lights 
Luna Outdoor Fabric Sun Lounger in Grey - £799
Transform your garden into a tranquil evening retreat by pairing your sun lounger with beautiful ambient lighting. Fairy lights, solar lanterns, floor lamps or integrated deck lights can take the atmosphere to the next level with little to no effort. You can create a perfect spot for stargazing with your partner or enjoying a quiet evening drink with friends.
Plus, it’ll also make your garden more functional, turning it into a versatile living area that you can use long into the night.
5. Create a social hotspot with sun loungers by a bar
Hatia Double Sun Lounger with Side Table in Latte - £1,899
Lounging in the sun doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Encourage social interaction by positioning your sun loungers near an outdoor bar to create a social hub perfect for entertaining guests.
Choose loungers that are easy to wipe and maintain, like aluminium with washable covers, to clean up any accidental spills easily. Add a parasol or canopy to provide shade and extra comfort while you sip your drinks throughout the day.
6. Go all out with a sun lounger set
Panama 3 Seat Sofa with Sun Lounger Feature in Latte - £1,249
Take your garden to the next level with a matching sun lounger set. Typically consisting of either a pair or multiple sun loungers, these sun lounger design ideas often include a matching table and parasol — perfect for families or hosting guests!
To create a luxurious lounging area, choose a set that matches your garden's style. This could be sleek aluminium or trendy rope for modern gardens, or classic wood for a more traditional look.
7. Add sun loungers to a patio area
Maximise the usability of your outdoor space by integrating sun loungers onto your patio.
Whether it's for sunbathing or enjoying a peaceful moment with your morning cup of coffee, patio sun loungers are a versatile addition to your home. Opt for loungers with light, natural cushion covers and warm wood or rattan for a Mediterranean vibe that screams relaxation and a touch of la dolce vita.
8. Accessorise with waterproof sun lounger cushions that withstand the elements (or pool!)
Hatia Single Sun Lounger with Side Table in Latte - £949
If you're lucky enough to have a pool (or simply live in the UK), update your sun loungers with waterproof cushions that can withstand the elements. Don't worry—functional doesn't have to mean boring. Available in various colours and patterns, cushions let you add a touch of personality to your outdoor space. They'll also add an extra layer of comfort and transform your loungers into an inviting spot for relaxing afternoons and weekends.
9. Create a cosy reading spot
Quay Sun Lounger In Linen - £449
A comfortable sun lounger can transform a quiet corner of your garden into a cosy reading nook. Add a stylish side table for your books and beverages and maybe a shaded umbrella for maximum protection on sunny days.
Choose a lounger with plush cushions and an adjustable backrest for hours of comfortable reading while you unwind with your latest novel.
10. Go large with a Daybed
Bermuda Daybed Dining Set with Ceramic Top in Stone Grey
For the ultimate garden luxury, treat yourself to a large daybed. These oversized loungers provide all the space you need to stretch out alone or share with others. They’re perfect for family gardens or as a plush retreat in a secluded corner for some much-needed R&R after work or busy days.
Harbour Lifestyle's Bermuda daybeds come in a beautiful, high-quality rattan weave with an adjustable sunshade for extra privacy, allowing you to create a beautiful sanctuary in your back garden — you deserve it.
11. Get wooden sun loungers for a traditional aesthetic
Quay Sun Lounger In Linen £499.00
Wooden sun loungers are the epitome of classic garden charm, blending seamlessly with your garden's natural environment. Choose from teak, cedar, or acacia wood, which are both beautiful and weather-resistant.
These loungers warm up your outdoor space and create an inviting place to relax and enjoy the serenity of your garden. Plus, their sturdy wooden frames mean they'll last you for years to come, making them the perfect choice for creating a traditional and elegant outdoor setting.
12. Accessorise with cushions, throws and textiles to create a comfy and inviting space
Paia 3 Seat Sofa Set in Linen - £1,749
Spruce up your loungers with soft cushions, cosy blankets, throws, and vibrant, textured textiles. Don't forget to be creative and mix and match colours and patterns to inject your personality and style into your garden.
These accessories not only enhance your garden's aesthetic but also provide an additional layer of comfort. They protect your loungers and make them look more welcoming for a space that feels like a cosy extension of your indoor living area.
13. Get beach-ready with a sunbathing area
Hatia Single Sun Lounger with Side Table in Charcoal
There’s no need to hit the beaches of Spain when you can create your very own beach-inspired sunbathing area right in your back garden. Add cushions, sun umbrellas in beach-inspired striped patterns, and a side table for that quintessential seaside feel.
Not only will your dedicated sunbathing area give you that holiday feeling without ever leaving your home, but it’s also great for enjoying warm days and making the most of the summer sun by soaking up some vitamin D.
14. Go for a modern and sleek metal sun lounger design
Monaco Padded Sunlounger in Charcoal £299.00
Thanks to their sleek lines and metallic finishes, metal sun loungers bring modern sophistication to every garden and complement minimalist and contemporary landscapes.
Aluminium and stainless steel sun lounger design ideas are popular thanks to being durable and lightweight, allowing you to easily rearrange your loungers based on the sun’s position or your entertaining needs. They are an elegant choice that perfectly reflects modern lifestyles.
15. Host pool parties and gatherings
Panama 3 Seat Sofa with Sun Lounger Feature in Latte - £1,249
Elevate your hosting game and set up multiple sun loungers around the pool area for your next big gathering. This will enhance the functionality of your outdoor space and encourage your guests to mingle and enjoy themselves.
Add cushions for extra comfort and blankets for chillier days and evenings to make your guests more comfortable.
16. Complete your sun lounger space with a side table for coffee — or cocktails!
Luna Outdoor Fabric Lifestyle Suite with 2 Sofas and 2 Benches in Grey £2,899.00
Create a mini garden oasis with a stylish side table to sip your favourite drinks while soaking up the sun or enjoying a peaceful sunset.
Choose a table that matches the style of your sun loungers, whether it’s a chic metallic table for modern loungers, a rustic wooden coffee table to match traditional styles or a mix of both.
While it’s a simple addition, it’s guaranteed to instantly elevate your comfort, allowing you to keep refreshments, like your morning coffee or evening glass of wine, within easy reach.
17. Add a stylish parasol for shaded comfort
Hacienda 3m x 4m Cantilever Parasol With Granite Base & Cover in Charcoal - £1,599
Panama 3 Seat Sofa with Sun Lounger Feature in Washed Grey - £1,249
No sun lounger is complete without a stylish parasol to perfectly balance sun and shade and transform your lounging area into an elegant, resort-like spot.
Looking for natural elegance and rustic appeal? You can’t go wrong with a classic wooden parasol to ensure you stay comfortable under the shade all day long.
If you prefer something a touch more modern, a lightweight and water-resistant aluminium parasol is perfect for a sleek look. Depending on your personal style, choose canopies in neutral shades or bright, bold patterns to add a decorative element to your garden.
18. Position your sun lounger under a pergola
3m x 6m Rectangular Pergola with 4 Drop Sides in Grey £8,639.00
Imagine reclining on your sun lounger, sheltered by a stunning pergola. This outdoor structure not only provides a shaded living area for relaxation but also adds a striking architectural element to your outdoor space.
Suitable for any patio or reinforced decking, choose a premium pergola with a louvred roof for complete control over your shade and built-in LED lighting strips to illuminate your lounging area long into the night.
Add climbing plants to create a stunning, natural green canopy that provides additional shade and privacy.
19. Set up a dual lounger for couples
Hatia Double Sun Lounger with Side Table in Latte - £1,899
Invest in a dual sun lounger for a romantic garden setup. These specially designed loungers offer enough space to lounge comfortably side by side, making them perfect for couples who want to unwind and relax together.
Choose a model with an adjustable backrest on each side so that each person can choose their ideal relaxation position. This cosy setup is perfect for enjoying quiet weekend mornings, sunset views, or stargazing together with a glass of wine for a date night at home.
20. Enhance comfort with an outdoor heater
Add an outdoor heater nearby to extend the usability of your sun lounge area on cooler days and chillier nights.
It doesn't need to be an eyesore, either. Stay warm and comfortable with a stylish, freestanding patio heater, a cost-effective infrared heater that warms you without heating the surrounding air. Or, add a luxurious, head-turning fire pit that instantly elevates your garden's ambience.
Helping you stay warm while enjoying your garden, an outdoor heater will turn your lounging area into a cosy space you can relax in season after season.
What should you look for in a sun lounger?
Quay Sun Lounger In Linen - £449
There are several factors you need to consider to ensure you choose the perfect sun lounger that meets your needs and enhances your garden:
- Material: Consider a durable material that aligns with your garden’s aesthetic and is easy to maintain. For example, wood offers a timeless look but needs regular treatment, while metal is sturdy but can get hot in the sun.
- Size: Ensure your lounger fits comfortably in your space without overcrowding. Consider the size of your lounger when fully reclined, and ensure ample space to walk around it.
- Comfort: Look for loungers with adjustable backrests, allowing you to find the perfect lounging position. Weather-resistant cushions and padding provide extra comfort, ensuring a relaxing experience even in changing weather conditions.
- Design: Opt for a style that complements your existing garden furniture and décor.
- Durability: It’s important to choose sun loungers that can withstand the unpredictable UK weather conditions. For this reason, look for UV-resistant materials and rust-proof coatings for longevity.
- Cost: Balance your budget with quality. It’s often worth investing a bit more for a durable and comfortable lounger that will last several years.
Enhance your outdoor relaxation experience with sun lounger ideas from Harbour Lifestyle
Perfect for relaxing and catching those summer rays, choosing the right sun lounger can transform your garden into a relaxing and stylish retreat. By considering sun lounger design ideas like material, size and comfort, you can find a sun lounger that complements your garden for years to come.
Sit back and relax with Harbour Lifestyle’s luxurious and stylish sun lounger collection. Our range offers sun lounger design ideas for every taste and garden, combining premium and long-lasting materials, exquisite design and unmatched comfort to help you relax in style and make the most of your garden this season.
So what are you waiting for? Visit Harbour Lifestyle and embrace the art of outdoor lounging.
