Miami Beach Creates Underwater Reef Park — Art and Ecology Meet Beneath the Waves

Miami Beach has launched one of its most ambitious environmental art projects yet: an underwater sculpture park featuring 22 life-sized concrete cars designed to serve as a new coral habitat. These full-scale vehicles, crafted from marine-safe materials, now rest on the ocean floor off South Beach, forming a unique combination of art installation and ecological restoration effort.

The sculptures are the first phase of a long-term project called “Concrete Coral,” aimed at revitalizing reefs damaged by warming waters, storms, and pollution. Scientists have begun attaching 2,200 native coral fragments grown in a local lab onto the structures. Over time, the artificial reef is expected to attract fish, foster biodiversity, and strengthen Miami Beach’s natural coastal defenses.

Beyond its ecological purpose, the underwater art park is poised to become a major draw for divers, snorkelers, and eco-tourists seeking one-of-a-kind experiences. The project reflects Miami Beach’s growing commitment to resilience and climate innovation as rising seas and warming oceans pose increasing challenges to coastal communities.

Local officials hope the project will inspire other cities to pair artistic creativity with environmental action. By turning an underwater landscape into a canvas for restoration, Miami Beach is reshaping how cities can protect their natural resources while boosting tourism and public engagement.