10th Street lifeguard station
Nicknamed “The Bed”, this circular hut was commissioned by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records and former owner of The Tides and The Marlin hotels.
Miami Beach Lifeguard Towers
By Virgin Atlantic | 16 October 2025 | 2 minute read
Miami Beach may be world-famous for its pastel Art Deco architecture, but it’s the brightly painted lifeguard towers lining the sand that really steal the show. These kaleidoscopic beach huts are now a defining symbol of the city; as vibrant and full of character as Miami itself.
A colourful comeback
Hard to believe, but the Miami Beach lifeguard towers are relatively new. When Hurricane Andrew tore through South Florida in 1992, most of the original huts were destroyed. Instead of simply rebuilding, the city made a bold move to reimagine them as design icons. Architect William Lane created the first new towers, and soon more followed, thanks to local artists, business owners, and even design competitions.
Today, Miami Beach boasts 31 of these playful sentinels, each one unique. Their mix of free-flowing shapes, bold colours, and tropical deco flair makes them irresistible to photographers and beachgoers alike.
The jetty station at South Pointe Park
Perched at Miami Beach’s southern tip, this lighthouse-inspired design marks the jetty and offers one of the best sunset views in town.
The lifeguard hut at 15th Street
A creative gem designed by a Florida International University student — proof that good design knows no age limit.
The 5th Street lifeguard tower
The 5th Street lifeguard tower marks the southern edge of Lummus Park and the busiest stretch of Ocean Drive.
The 74th Street hut
The sunny 74th Street hut is far away from the crowds of South Beach, just a couple of blocks north of North Shore Park.
The 74th Street hut
The sunny 74th Street hut is far away from the crowds of South Beach, just a couple of blocks north of North Shore Park.
Stars and stripes hut at 13th Street
Painted in stars and stripes, this patriotic hut is pure Miami iconography and a must-snap spot for visitors.
Image credits:
Life guard station on South Beach © iStock: dndavis
Miami Beach Lifeguard Station © iStock: ATGImages
Summer scene with a lifeguard house in Miami Beach © iStock: FotoMak
Lifeguard tower in South Beach, Miami © iStock: marchello74
Florida Lifeguard hut © iStock: Alexander Reitter
Miami Lifeguard Hut © iStock: Predrag Vuckovic
Miami holidays
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