Yes—there are definitely outdoor benches with backs high enough to rest your head on. Most standard outdoor benches stop around mid-back, so your head gets no support. If you want to lean back and actually relax, you need a high-back bench or a deep-seating bench with a tall cushioned back.
Before you buy, check the listed back height from the seat. Standard benches usually have a back height of 18 to 22 inches. For real head support, aim for at least 28 inches, and ideally 30 to 36 inches. Cushions count too. A bench with a 24-inch back and a thick cushion can sometimes get you into the right range.
Here are five outdoor bench styles that work well for resting your head.
1. High-Back Teak or Acacia Garden Bench
A classic wooden bench with a tall slatted back and curved top rail is one of the easiest options. Look for teak, acacia, or eucalyptus benches with a back height around 32 to 34 inches. The curved top rail gives you a natural place to rest your head, and the slatted design lets rainwater drain quickly. Teak is the most weather-resistant choice. Acacia and eucalyptus are good lower-cost alternatives if you keep them sealed or covered.
Search terms to use: tall teak garden bench, high-back acacia bench, curved top garden bench.
2. Deep-Seating Patio Bench with High Back Cushions
If you want a softer feel, look for a deep-seating patio bench made from powder-coated aluminum or all-weather wicker. These benches usually come with thick seat and back cushions, and the back cushions often extend high enough to support your head. This style feels more like an outdoor sofa than a traditional bench. Check that the back cushion is at least 24 to 28 inches tall from the seat. Fabrics like Sunbrella or Olefin hold up better against sun, rain, and mildew.
Search terms: deep seating outdoor bench, high back patio bench with cushions, outdoor settee with headrest.
3. High-Back Metal Park Bench
A metal park bench with a tall contoured back is a low-maintenance option that can still support your head. Powder-coated cast aluminum or steel benches with back heights around 30 inches or more are common. The contour matters: a slightly reclined back is much more comfortable than a straight upright bench. You can also add a small outdoor pillow at the top for extra neck cushioning.
Search terms: high back metal park bench, cast aluminum tall back bench, outdoor bench with contoured back.
4. Outdoor Daybed Bench or Settee
If you really want to stretch out, an outdoor daybed bench or deep settee with high side panels gives you full back and head support. These are larger than a typical bench, but they work beautifully on a covered porch, deck, or poolside area. Wicker and rattan versions often come with thick cushions and oversized back pillows that make resting your head easy. Look for a model with a total back height of at least 30 inches including cushions.
Search terms: outdoor daybed bench, high back outdoor settee, wicker bench with headrest.
5. Adirondack-Style Bench or Glider with Tall Back
Adirondack chairs are known for their high fan backs, and there are Adirondack-style benches and gliders with the same tall back profile. These have a reclined, contoured seat that naturally supports your head when you lean back. Wood versions are classic, but recycled poly lumber is even lower maintenance and won’t crack, splinter, or fade as easily. Check the back height before buying, because not every Adirondack bench is tall enough for an adult’s head.
Search terms: Adirondack bench with high back, tall back outdoor glider, recycled poly high back bench.
What to Check Before You Buy
Back height from the seat: Look for 28 to 36 inches. Do not rely on product photos alone.
Seat depth and angle: A slight recline makes resting your head feel much more natural.
Material and climate: Teak and aluminum handle moisture well. Softwoods need more maintenance.
Cushion height and fabric: If cushions provide the height, make sure they are weather-resistant and high-resilience.
Cover or storage: If you buy a cushioned bench, use a cover or store cushions in bad weather.
The short answer is yes: you can absolutely find an outdoor bench that lets you rest your head. Just skip standard benches and search specifically for high-back, tall-back, or headrest designs. A high-back teak bench gives you classic style, a deep-seating patio bench gives you cushion comfort, and an Adirondack-style bench gives you that reclined, head-supported feel. Check the listed back height, and you will end up with a bench that is actually comfortable enough for a long afternoon nap.