Enjoying your pool is not restricted to daytime use only. There’s nothing better on a warm summer night then cooling off in your pool. Plus, you’re able to have a good time in the water without worrying about a sunburn. If you are new to nighttime swimming here are some great tips you can use to make the most of your summer nights.

Lighting

Appealing lighting is not only pleasant to look at, but it offers safety as well. It’s important that you and your guests are able to maneuver around your pool area without straining to see where you are going. There’s a good variety of pool lighting options you should consider.

• A safe bright option for around the pool area is spotlights.
• A fun choice is colored lights.
• Placing lights in the pool and under the water are attractive and safe.
• A money saver to consider is the use of solar lights.
• Get creative and put string lights on fences, bushes, and overhangs.

Insect Repellent

Enjoying a swim in the evening requires some defense against evening bugs like mosquitoes. A good way to create a bug battle zone is to set up a perimeter with citronella candles. Citronella spray is also available that is not supposed to be harmful to wildlife or vegetation. Further information can be found from Swim University on insect control.

Star Gazing

A swimming pool is the perfect cushion for laying on your back to star gaze. Grab an inner tube or raft and lay on your back to watch the night sky. Your muscles and joints will appreciate the relaxation after a stressful day.

Warm It Up

When the sun’s warmth disappears as the evening sets in, you may want to consider investing in a heater. You have the option of selecting from gas, solar or other options. A simple idea that many pool owners use is to place plastic bubble wrap on the surface of the pool to intensify the heat from the sun. Be sure to remove it at night. Maybe something more sophisticated is a better option for you. If that’s the case, a solar-powered or gas heater may be a good choice for you. For more information on heating choices see the Department of Energy’s article.

Party Time

An evening centered around the pool is a great way to entertain friends and family and enjoy each other’s company. You can step up the fun by adding a cookout to the mix or maybe just serving drinks. Your options are endless depending on how much effort you want to put into it. It can be fun to go beyond the basic "pool party" theme. If you're looking for themes for your pool party, look no further! Here are some great themes for pool parties that will make for a fun time for all.

• Cartoon Characters

Kids will love a cartoon theme party. SpongeBob SquarePants, for example, is definitely a water/beach type theme that works for kids. Use any character you want and give them a poolside presence.

• Spa

Why not have a spa theme at your pool party? If your budget allows, have a massage therapist join you to give guests massages. Nail polish, face masks, and healthy body lotions and sunscreen can play into the theme. Manicures and pedicures are fun to do by the pool. Since everyone will be out in the sun, a "skincare" side theme can be fun.

• Luau

A Luau theme is an oldie but a goody. Hawaiian Luaus can be a lot of fun, and decorations and food tend to be affordable. Pineapple fruit baskets, leis, flowered shirts, and grass skirts are an integral part of the Luau look. Think tropical colors when decorating, and if you like, you can incorporate a Tiki theme with torches and statues. Bamboo placemats and table runners are another aspect of the Luau look.

Catch a Movie

If you have an outdoor cable hookup you and your guests can watch the big game or catch a movie. If an outdoor hookup is not available, you could look for a strategically placed window to run your cable through.

Enjoy your swimming pool in both the daytime sun and under the night moon.