Nothing can be better than having an open Patio, with no covers - fully open on all sides including the top ... you will have enough sunshine and perhaps a bit of a drizzle and snowfall.
But then we live in a real world with more than plenty sunshine, too much rains - heavy winds etc. You need that cover - a good one, which will let you enjoy the morning, the evenings - no matter how harsh the outside climate is!
There are a few basic things to keep in mind though - firstly, it is still an outdoor unit with plenty of open spaces, this can't be changed. No point using fixed walls or really strong and permanent roof - or it will defeat its purpose.
Here's 5 Quick Tips to get an Amazing Patio Cover for your Home:
Go for Aluminium - If you are looking something on the cheaper side of the things and you don't want to bother yourself with the yearly maintenance then Aluminium is your best option. It will cost a bit to set it up, so would wood too, but with any other setup you will have a yearly maintenance to keep it in good condition. This is where aluminium is the best - because it does not require any maintenance, it stays evergreen forever in all weather conditions.
Get Pro Help - Am a big fan of DIY but that doesn't mean that if something is complicated or takes time to build - you just have to do it yourself. If it is something that a professional can do better without wasting resources, then it is simply best to let the profession do it themselves. There's obviously many, however if you are based in San Diego then here's one that we can recommend - https://rkcconstruction.com/ - just make sure to be clear on what your needs are.
Make a list of requirements - Requirements vary based on your needs, for example some people will prefer to have a basin which will require water arrangements, fans which will require electricity, garden and plants near or inside your patio which will require a bit of sunlight and perhaps a way for excess water to exit. So, depending on your very personal requirements - you need those arrangements in your patio cover.
Temporary Structure - If the place you live is mostly suitable for open roof patio then a temporary structure like a removable umbrella might be a good idea. Just make sure that the temporary structure if firm enough to withstand the nature - because even if only a few days a year you face severe conditions, those days can wreck havoc on your patio cover.
Raised Patio Decks - If you are planning to raise your deck a bit, then it is best that you plan your electricity beforehand. That way you can perhaps add some LED bulbs below the deck to give it a more luxorious view.
Overall, having a patio is excellent in itself - but since every human is different from any other, it is best you list your customization and priorities before heading into one.