Nothing improves an open-air gathering like flickering flames, and tiki torches are among the best outdoor decor you can use to achieve this aesthetic. They’re elegant, versatile, and surprisingly affordable!
It doesn’t utilize power like other light sources, and as such, it allows you to freely install them wherever you fancy.
Most tiki torches are extremely conventional in structure. Searching for something with a more traditional Polynesian look? Or maybe one with a present-day design? No matter what your style is, we’re sure there’s a torch out there for you.
Here’s an assortment of some of the best outdoor tiki torches that can be utilized to illuminate your next patio gathering.
A Quick Comparison
| Product | Price Approx | Height | Weight | Material | Burn Time |
| TIKI Brand Swirl Metal Torch | 3.1 x 3.1 x 64 inches | 2.38 pounds | Glass canister, steel body | 5 hours | |
| TIKI Brand Cordoba Metal Patio Torch | $64 | 14 x 14 x 28 inches | 6.2 pounds | Powder-coated steel | 3 hours |
| Desert Steel Saguaro Cactus Tiki Torch | $475 | 11 x 21 x 60 inches | 26 pounds | Solid steel | 6 hours |
| Desert Steel Flower Torch | $50 | 14 x 14 x 36 inches | 5.04 pounds | Powder-coated steel | 6 hours |
| TomCare Solar Lights | $40 (x2) | 4.7 x 4.7 x 32.67 inches | 3.2 pounds | ABS Plastic | 10 hours |
TIKI Brand Swirl Metal Torch with Blue Bubble Glass Head
Add some elegance to your backyard with this gorgeous glass tiki torch from TIKI.
This tiki torch features a blue glass canister that lights up beautifully when lit.
It comes with a reliable fiberglass wick that burns up to 5 hours, and a metal snuffer you can use to extinguish the flames at the end of the night. Its conical reservoirs can hold just over 8 ounces of citronella or lamp oil.
Its glass sits inside a spiraled metal pen structure that clutches the glass for safety. It’s durable enough to withstand weather conditions.
Pros
- Its blue bubble glass adds a nice, elegant look
- Lights easily and doesn’t catch on fire like the bamboo tikis
- Easy to assemble
- Canister can easily be removed to refill the torch fluid
- Very sturdy and weather-resistant
Cons
- The glass is heavy so it’s difficult to maneuver around
- Only holds 8 ounces of oil
TIKI Brand Cordoba Metal Patio Torch
Featuring another pick from our favorite tiki merchants, the Cordoba Metal Patio Torch makes a terrific accent piece on your existing patio furniture.
This tiki torch is made out of durable metal and has a solid base. Place it on any stable surface and you’re good to go! The wick inside the oil enables the flames to burn for two to three hours.
Pros
- Easy to pour system
- Easy to assemble
- Double wick feature
- Highly durable
Cons
- Shorter in comparison to other tiki torches
- May be dangerous for those with kids or pets due to its height
- Fluid lids may expand if exceptionally tightened due to the heat
- Short burning time of only 3 hours
Desert Steel Saguaro Cactus Tiki Torch
The Saguaro Cactus Tiki Torch may not be the most affordable, but it’s certainly one of the best looking pieces of tiki torch available to purchase in the market today.
This tiki torch is completely crafted of galvanized steel, three fuel canisters, a sturdy frame, and base. With such attention to detail, it can only really be described as a piece of fine art.
Standing at 5 – 6’5 ft tall, this tiki’s canisters can hold enough fuel to give you up to 6 hours of torchlight. It’s also corrosion-resistant.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Beautifully lifelike in shape and color
- Top-notch quality and is very sturdy
- Unique addition to your backyard
Cons
- Tiki torch cans are small and bit of a pain to refill
Desert Steel Flower Torch
Desert Steel stuns once again with this gorgeous flower torch. It blends well in your garden and adds a great visual that anyone would compliment.
Desert Steel’s Flower Torch features a powder-coated metal that’s durable enough to withstand corrosion, rust, and some of the more adverse weather conditions without damage.
Just like the Desert Steel’s Cactus torch, this piece can also burn up to 6 hours at a time with an extra-long 10 inches wick. It also includes a mental stuffler underneath the torch for your convenience.
Pros
- Aesthetically pleasing to the eye
- Highly durable with a solid steel construction
- Anti-corrosive
- Can easily be assembled
- Offers a wide variety of designs
Cons
- The oil reservoir is rather small and doesn’t hold much oil
TomCare Solar Lights
TomCare’s Solar Lights are one of the most highly bought tiki torches on Amazon, and for good reason. These torches provide an elegant feel to your yard with its dancing flame design.
But here’s the real kicker: it completely runs on solar power. No fuel or batteries needed! This innovative product collects solar energy all day to use at dusk at your convenience.
TomCare’s Solar Lights are a great alternative to homeowners who’d prefer not to have an open flame in their yard. At only $39.99 for a pack of 2, this one’s definitely a steal.
Pros
- Solar-powered
- Stays alight for up to 10 hours
- Highly affordable
- Easy assembly
- Waterproof
Cons
- The “flame’s” brilliancy may diminish after a few months of continuous use
Things to Consider When Choosing Tiki Torches
Other than quality, there are a few other things you’ll have to consider before buying a tiki torch.
Fuel vs. Solar
Fuel
Fuel comes in 2 options: Oil, and propane.
Oil is the most common type of fuel that can be used in tiki torches. You’ll find them in either kerosene, paraffin, or citronella oil.
Citronella oil is expensive, but a highly popular choice due to its ability to repel mosquitoes and other insects.
Solar
The solar option gives you an alternative light from a power-source we all have plenty of: the sun!
Solar tiki torches are the recommended choice if you’re nervous about having open flames in your backyard, or if you have small children playing around.
As long as you place them directly under the right source, you don’t have to worry about constantly replacing your fuel.
Standing Pole vs Tabletop
Pole
Tiki torches with standing poles are commonly staked deep in the ground, which allows it to be easily moved and positioned around.
As pole torches are most often 5-10 feet tall, remember to place them far from any flammable material, overhangs, or trees.
Tabletops
Tabletops are for those who fancy a more elegant look and can be placed as a decorative in the middle of the table.
Final Thoughts
A personal recommendation of mine will be Desert Steel’s Flower Torch. They’re handcrafted by the most talented sculptors, which is a testament to their quality.
If you’re still looking to decorate your backyard, tiki torches are a creative way to add character to your outside space.