It’s totally OK to blame the pandemic if your backyard is in no shape to host company. But now that vaccines are plentiful—not to mention that outdoors is the safest place for virus avoidance—it’s time to (finally) create that welcoming oasis. These tips can get you well on your way to hosting some fun in the sun.

Take a moment for maintenance. Before the thermometer hits triple digits, survey your backyard.

• Take inventory. This might seem simple, but it’s necessary. If something’s broken, fix or replace it. If something’s missing, buy it. Spring is the perfect time to replace the pool filter cartridge, add chlorine (or even an algaecide, if needed), etc.

• Follow the “three Cs” of pool maintenance. According to SwimUniversity.com, a pool needs good water circulation, a regular cleaning schedule and balanced chemistry.

• Don’t be afraid to get help. If you think pH balance only applies to nutrition, you might want to save yourself the headache and hire a local pool service to do the job for you. According to fixer.com, the national average monthly cost of a pool service is about $180.

Seek sun protection. The worst of the heat hasn’t arrived yet, but nobody enjoys baking under the full desert sun. If you do nothing else, provide your guests some areas of respite from our nearest star. You’ve got lots of options in a spectrum of styles and price points.

• Patio umbrella. These classic sunshades often come in backyard sets. They’re festive and portable but generally offer only limited shade.

• Gazebo. Known for adorning parks and Victorian gardens, this outdoor shade structure is defined by a roof that fully blocks the sun. Think of it like an outdoor room: It’s a permanent architectural structure, so it will be nice but not cheap.

• Pergola. This cousin to the gazebo has a partial or slatted roof. A shade sail can be added for extra sun protection.

• Shade sail. One of the cheapest shade solutions, you can purchase sails from home improvement stores and simply mount them in your backyard with string. Choose from a variety of colors and fabric options.

Upgrade that pool. We’ve all gone through a lot the past year, so why not indulge in some upgrades to your swimming pool?

• Pool cover. It keeps your pool warm, saves water and saves you money. What’s not to love?

• LED lighting. Take advantage of the latest technology with fun and energy-efficient, color-changing lights. It’s listed as one of the top 4 pool upgrades by American-Pools.com.

• Water features. If you can’t afford a full-on waterfall, go for a less-expensive sprayer to jazz up your backyard.

• New patio furniture. Lounge by the pool in style with some refreshed chairs. Even simply replacing your patio furniture cushions can provide a fresh, new feel.

If you don’t have a pool … Don’t fret. There are still tons of options for aquatic fun.

• Get misty. Thanks to Nevada’s dry heat, misters will really cool you off. Buy a few stand-alone misters (about $20-$25 a pop) or a kit that turns a fan into an ad hoc air conditioner. You can also invest in a full misting system, which is less expensive than you think (as little as about $45).

• Embrace your inner child. It might seem silly, but a kiddie pool can be a great (and cost-effective way to relax). Pair it with an inner tube and float on! You can also cool off with water guns, water balloons, water-soaked sponges and even an old-school Slip ‘N Slide.

• Make a DIY splash pad. If you want to go the simple route, set up a sprinkler ball and enjoy dancing in the water. You can also buy a portable splash pad or splash mat off Amazon.com for about $15-$40. But if money’s no object, you can build a permanent splash pad with a kit starting at about $1,200, according to BackyardRefuge.com.

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