In August 2025, the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach announced an ambitious plan that will transform its outdoor pool deck into one of the most eye-catching water attractions in Florida. The resort, which has been a symbol of Miami Beach glamour since 1954, is now aiming to reimagine itself as a premier family-friendly destination without losing its signature luxury appeal. Central to this transformation is the addition of a sprawling water park with eleven water slides, including a dramatic 120-foot tower expected to be one of the tallest in the United States.
The project is part of a broader strategic shift for Miami Beach tourism. Over the past decade, the city has been known internationally for its nightlife, art scene, and high-end dining, attracting celebrities, partygoers, and affluent travelers. However, city leaders and major hoteliers have recognized the need to broaden their reach, appealing to families and daytime visitors who want experiences beyond clubs and cocktails. Fontainebleau’s water park project perfectly aligns with that vision.
Plans submitted to the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board reveal a complete re-imagining of the hotel’s existing pool area. The new layout will be divided into distinct zones: an adults-only area with upgraded cabanas, premium seating, and private plunge pools, and a children’s adventure zone featuring interactive splash areas, shallow pools, and slides tailored for younger guests. The main attraction, however, will be the towering 120-foot slide structure offering multiple high-thrill experiences. Some slides will twist through enclosed tubes, while others will deliver sheer vertical drops for adrenaline seekers.
In addition to the slides, the design includes a reconfigured pool deck with five pools of varying depths and purposes ranging from a quiet relaxation pool to a wave pool for more energetic fun. There will also be two oversized hot tubs, several shaded lounging areas, and new food and beverage kiosks designed to keep guests close to the action. The landscaping will integrate tropical plants and shaded walkways, ensuring the area maintains Fontainebleau’s signature elegance while accommodating more active uses.
The move is not just about entertainment it’s also a significant economic play. Resort executives project that the expansion will increase average guest stays, draw more bookings during traditionally slower weekdays, and open opportunities for hosting corporate family events and group travel packages. It is also expected to create dozens of jobs during construction and in the long-term operation of the new facilities. With tourism competition intensifying across Florida—from Orlando’s theme parks to Fort Lauderdale’s growing resort scene—Fontainebleau’s water park aims to give Miami Beach a competitive family-oriented edge.
Historically, Fontainebleau has undergone several major renovations, but none have so directly targeted the family segment. When it opened in the 1950s, the resort was a glamorous getaway for Hollywood stars and political figures. In the decades that followed, it maintained its reputation as a luxury destination while adapting to evolving travel trends. This latest transformation may be its boldest yet an attempt to balance high-end branding with playful, accessible amenities that appeal to guests of all ages.
According to early planning documents, construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with completion projected before the end of that year. The project’s scale and visibility will make it one of the largest hospitality upgrades in Miami Beach in recent memory. Approvals are still pending from the Historic Preservation Board, given the hotel’s iconic status, but insiders suggest that the board is generally supportive of renovations that keep the property competitive while respecting its architectural heritage.
The investment also reflects a post-pandemic reality in the hospitality industry. Travelers are increasingly seeking resorts that offer “everything in one place”—accommodation, dining, entertainment, and activities for all age groups. Fontainebleau’s new water park will allow families to spend entire days within the property without needing to venture elsewhere for amusement. This integrated experience can help maintain guest spending on-site and strengthen customer loyalty.
Critics of large-scale resort attractions in Miami Beach often raise concerns about increased water usage, noise, and traffic congestion. Fontainebleau executives have stated that the project will include water-recycling systems for slides and pools, as well as sound-buffering landscaping to minimize disturbance to surrounding areas. These measures are intended to address environmental and community impact concerns while ensuring compliance with city sustainability goals.
If the expansion succeeds, it may set a precedent for other high-profile Miami Beach hotels to follow. By merging resort luxury with destination-style attractions, properties could attract a broader spectrum of visitors without losing their premium status. This blend of sophistication and fun could redefine what luxury means in one of America’s most competitive hospitality markets.
When it opens, the Fontainebleau Miami water park is expected to become both a guest favorite and a visual landmark on Collins Avenue. Its towering slides will be visible from the beach and surrounding streets, signaling a new chapter for the historic property. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a parent looking for kid-friendly activities, or simply a traveler wanting to relax in an upgraded tropical paradise, Fontainebleau’s next evolution promises to make waves literally and figuratively in Miami Beach tourism.
Back