Penrod's Beach Club Comes Back to Miami Beach For One Day Only
The tribute will take place at Nikki Beach Miami Beach, the globally recognized destination founded by the late Jack Penrod. This isn't just a nostalgic party, it's a celebration of legacy. A look back at the original beach club that helped transform a fading South Beach into the world-renowned destination it is today. In the 80s, Jack Penrod launched his beachfront operation in Fort Lauderdale, where his original Penrod's Beach Club became legendary for its high-energy spring break crowds, MTV appearances, and larger-than-life atmosphere. At the same time, Miami Beach was in steep decline. Crime was rampant, South of 5th was rundown, and the city's glamour had all but vanished. That's when the mayor approached Jack with a bold request: bring that energy and vision to Miami Beach.
After committing a $4 million investment and an ambitious marketing plan to help revitalize the area, Jack was granted a 40-year lease by the City of Miami Beach for the prime stretch of sand at the southern tip of the city, along with beach management rights from 1st to 15th Street. He accepted the opportunity, and what followed was a complete reimagining of South Beach's potential. Palm trees were brought in by the truckload, beach scenes were staged with vintage convertibles and bikini runway tours, and construction began on a three-story, 35,000-square-foot venue at 1 Ocean Drive.
Jack and Lucia worked side by side to bring the venue to life. After moving to Miami from Nicaragua, Lucia made her mark managing the successful Jockey Club before joining Jack on the project that would redefine South Beach. Together, they created a new kind of destination that brought people together through fun, hospitality, and larger-than-life experiences.
But in 1997, everything changed. Jack's 18-year-old daughter, Nicole, was killed by a drunk driver. In her honor, Jack and Lucia filled the empty land south of Penrod's to create a peaceful space now called Nikki Beach. That moment marked a shift, not just in design, but in purpose.
'We opened Nikki Beach in 1997,' Lucia says. 'And in a way, we ended one club to start another. That's what Nikki Beach was born. Every detail was designed with Nicole in mind. It became a place to celebrate life.'
With white sunbeds, flowing fabrics, global music, and organic textures, Nikki Beach introduced what the world would come to define as a 'French-style beach club in the American way.' This new approach resonated instantly.
Over the years, Nikki Beach evolved into a global lifestyle brand rooted in the spirit of Celebrating Life. The vision quickly expanded to include dining, entertainment, fashion, film, and art. The brand now includes beach clubs, resorts, residences, and special events in 14 countries around the world. And at its heart, it remains family-owned and deeply personal.
'We've had team members with us for 10, 15, even 20 years,' Lucia shares. 'That kind of loyalty is rare in this industry. Our team is family, and they carry the Penrod's spirit of bringing joy to the world.'
Following Jack's passing earlier this year at the age of 85, the upcoming July 4th tribute at Nikki Beach Miami Beach has morphed into a powerful full-circle moment. 'We wanted to honor Jack in the place where it all began,' Lucia says. 'This is more than a nostalgic event. It's a celebration of his legacy and the joy he brought to so many lives.'
Guests can expect an immersive experience that channels the spirit of the original Penrod's. There will be beach volleyball, throwback music from the 80s and 90s, and a special menu bringing back fan favorites like All American Cheeseburger, Crispy Conch Fritters, Smoked Fish Dip, and Key Lime Pie. Classic cocktails like the Penrod's Rum Punch and Frozen Coconut Piña Colada will also be available.
'These dishes are memories,' Lucia says. 'We wanted to bring that feeling back. That sense of carefree, sun-soaked celebration.'
What makes the moment even more special is the generational connection that continues to grow. 'We see people who partied at Penrod's in the 80s and 90s now coming back to Nikki Beach with their kids, or even their grandkids, for Sunday brunch,' she says. 'It's full circle. We've become part of family traditions, and that's something I'm incredibly proud of.'
As Nikki Beach looks to the future, the brand continues to grow. New resort sites are currently in development across the Caribbean, Asia, and the Middle East, and plans for future full-scale lifestyle destinations that bring together beach clubs, wellness, dining, music, art, and retail are already underway.
The group is also expanding creatively with the launch of Lucia, a new restaurant concept that brings a different side to the hospitality landscape: 'Nikki Beach is 'lots more,'' Lucia concludes. 'Lucia is 'more is more.'' It's bold, citrusy, and unapologetically maximalist.'
Sourcing local produce and bold ingredients is key to the menu, Lucia is due to unveil it in Cannes in 2024. This summer, the experience expands to Marbella with Lucia Summer Club, a vibrant seasonal preview ahead of the full resort experience opening in 2026.
'Still, July 4th is about returning to where it all started — and sharing the magic people experienced Miami Beach,' Lucia says. 'It was the spark for everything that followed. And for one day, we get to bring that magic back.'
PENROD'S BEACH CLUB AT NIKKI BEACH
1 OCEAN DRIVE, MIAMI BEACH
FRIDAY, JULY 4TH
12-9 P.M.
Reservations via Resy
Bring vintage Penrod's merch for a complimentary beer (Must be 21 or older)
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