Munich Defends Eisbach Wave Surfing Ban Amidst Surfer Criticism
Munich, February 13 – The city of Munich has expressed surprise at the criticism from surfers regarding the ban at the Eisbach wave and has defended its measure. In a statement released on Friday, the city contradicted statements made by the Surf Club in an open letter. These statements, according to the city, were contrary to what representatives of the surf community had expressed during a meeting at the city hall on February 6, 2026. At that meeting, representatives of the Surf Club had also “unequivocally pointed out the very dangerous, current situation” at the wave.
Dangerous Water Roller Threatens Inexperienced Surfers
The reason for the danger is a new, “small wave” that has formed on the side of the bank. The rest of the Eisbach, for inexperienced surfers, presents a “life-threatening so-called stilling basin with a whitewater area.” According to the city administration, the surf clubs stated at the meeting that they could not assume responsibility for this “acute dangerous situation.” Action by the city of Munich was therefore “absolutely necessary.”
From a legal perspective, there is no other way than to ban surfing on the entire wave until further notice. This serves to protect the lives and health of both surfers and rescue workers. Differentiating between “experienced” and “inexperienced” surfers is “not legally possible.” The surf community was informed in advance about the step. The re-erection of the previously removed prohibition signs was also announced.
After Fatal Accident: Safety Comes First
The city of Munich still has the “determined will” to restore the wave. The city administration is working with all its might to get the wave running again in cooperation with the surfers and to find a “legally viable framework.” Especially after a fatal accident in April 2025, it is a “paramount concern” for the city that surfing is safe for everyone. This is a demanding and complex task for all involved.
The city emphasizes that the decision to ban surfing was not taken lightly and was made in consultation with the surf community. The city’s priority remains the safety of all individuals using the Eisbach wave, and they are committed to finding a long-term solution that allows for safe surfing while addressing the current dangers.
The city council also highlighted that the discussions with the surf clubs on February 6 revealed a shared understanding of the immediate risks. The subsequent public criticism from the Surf Club, therefore, came as a surprise to the city administration, as it seemed to contradict the consensus reached during the meeting.
Furthermore, the city is actively exploring options to modify the wave’s structure to mitigate the identified hazards. This includes engaging with hydraulic engineers and other experts to develop a sustainable solution. The process is expected to be complex and may require significant time and resources.
The ban will remain in effect until a safe environment can be guaranteed. The city has reiterated its commitment to transparency and will continue to communicate with the surf community throughout this process. They aim to restore the Eisbach wave as a safe and enjoyable surfing spot for everyone.
The city’s statement also pointed out that the re-installation of the prohibition signs, which had been previously removed by unknown individuals, is a necessary step to enforce the ban effectively and ensure public safety. This measure is intended to clearly communicate the current restrictions to all visitors and prevent unauthorized surfing.
The incident in April 2025, where a fatal accident occurred, served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of the Eisbach wave, particularly for those who may not be fully aware of its unique characteristics. This tragic event further underscored the city’s responsibility to prioritize safety above all else.
The city of Munich is hopeful that through continued dialogue and collaborative efforts with the surf community, a resolution can be found that addresses both the safety concerns and the desire to preserve the Eisbach wave as a beloved surfing destination. The current ban, while regrettable, is deemed a temporary but essential measure to prevent further accidents.
The city’s administration understands the passion and dedication of the surfing community and is committed to working towards a future where surfing on the Eisbach wave can be enjoyed safely by all. They urge all individuals to respect the current ban and cooperate with local authorities to ensure the well-being of everyone.
