One of Germany’s most famous inner-city surf spots has just reopened on a canal in Munich.
Mayor of the city, Dominic Krause, announced on 8 May that surfing could resume on the Eisbach after a “stable, surfable wave” naturally formed.
Last October, the wave mysteriously vanished following the city’s annual draining for river maintenance. Surfers installed a beam in the river to reinstate the attraction, but this was controversially removed in December.
The Eisbach wave is located on Prinzregentenstrasse avenue on the southern edge of the city’s English Garden.
It was first surfed in the 1970s, formed by a combination of natural river movements and submerged blocks, modified by water sport enthusiasts.
Swimming is banned by the standing river wave, with conditions considered suitable only for experienced surfers.
All surfers must now use a self-releasing leash, with a ban on the activity after 10pm.
According to Munich’s city portal, “Surfing the Eisbach wave is challenging and involves risks. Therefore, clear rules and safety regulations are in place to protect surfers and visitors.”
It adds: “Surfing is only possible in compliance with these current regulations.”
In 2025, a surfer tragically died at Eisbach. Authorities believe her board was caught underwater and she couldn't free herself from the attached leash.
Munich is an entirely landlocked city – its nearest ocean coastline is hundreds of miles away in Italy.
Mayor Krause said, “Surfing on the Eisbach is part of the Munich way of life; the Eisbach wave is a landmark of the city. I’m delighted that surfing on the Eisbach is finally possible again.
“It was my goal from the very beginning to open the wave as soon as possible. Now nature has cooperated, and the wave is back.”
Read more: Surfers baffled as city’s world-famous river wave disappears
