Munich, Bavaria – The Eisbach Wave, a renowned surfing spot in Munich’s English Garden, has unexpectedly returned to its surfable state, much to the delight of the local surfing community and tourists. On Thursday, numerous surfers were seen riding the wave, while onlookers gathered on the bridge and along the riverbank, reminiscent of the wave’s pre-ban popularity.
Eisbach Wave’s Tumultuous History
The exact date when the Eisbach Wave became surfable again remains unclear, with one athlete suggesting it has been approximately two weeks. However, the City of Munich has confirmed that surfing on the Eisbach Wave in the English Garden remains officially prohibited. This comes after a tragic accident in April 2025, where a 33-year-old surfer died after her safety leash became snagged at the bottom of the Eisbach. Following the incident, the wave was temporarily closed.
After the riverbed was cleared last autumn, the wave disappeared entirely, causing frustration among surfers and tourists alike. Several attempts to restore the wave to a reliably surfable condition proved unsuccessful. Since February, a general decree has been in place, prohibiting surfing and the attachment of boards or grids to the wave.
New Mayor Pledges Reopening by Summer
Munich’s new Mayor, Dominik Krause (Green Party), recently announced his intention to officially reopen the wave for surfing by the start of the summer holidays at the latest. While he did not specify how the wave would be reconstructed, he emphasized ongoing discussions with the surfing community to develop a safe and mutually agreed-upon solution for its reopening. Experts from the university sector are also involved in these discussions.
“The Eisbach Wave is an expression of our city’s relaxed lifestyle and a true landmark. My goal is for surfing to be possible again soon, by summer at the latest,” Krause stated, underscoring the wave’s cultural significance to Munich.
Community’s Persistent Efforts for Reinstatement
The return of the wave follows a period of intense advocacy from the surfing community. On March 1, 2026, approximately 250 people gathered to demonstrate for the wave’s reopening, highlighting the strong public desire for its return. The city had previously cited safety concerns as the primary reason for the ban.
The Eisbach Wave has long been a unique attraction, drawing water sports enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. Its absence was keenly felt, and its unexpected reappearance, even under official prohibition, signals a strong desire for its permanent and safe return.
The city’s commitment to finding a safe solution, coupled with the new mayor’s proactive stance, offers hope that the Eisbach Wave will soon reclaim its status as a fully sanctioned and celebrated surfing destination in Munich.
