Eisbach surfer wave in Munich: Information, location, rules and current surfing ban

One year after the accident: City working on a plan for the Eisbach wave

(April 16, 2026) One year after the tragic accident on April 16, 2025, in which a 33-year-old woman from Munich was injured while surfing the Eisbach wave and later died in the hospital, the City of Munich is moving forward with efforts to safely reopen the wave.

• Since the public prosecutor’s office was unable to determine a specific cause of the accident, city officials are working together with surfers and experts from the academic community to find a legally sound solution that will allow surfing on the Eisbach again.
• Under the direction of Professor Robert Meier-Staude of Munich University of Applied Sciences, experiments are currently underway aimed at developing a permanently stable wave structure. These tests were initiated by the surfing community and approved by the municipal water authority.
• The results so far are considered promising and will be continued in the coming weeks. Without structural modifications, the wave occurs only about 30 to 40 days a year—depending on water inflow and the nature of the subsoil.
• At the same time, the Department of Construction is working on technical alternatives for safe installation, as directed by Mayor Dieter Reiter and in cooperation with the University of the German Armed Forces in Hamburg and the University of Innsbruck. These serve as a fallback option in case the current tests prove unsuccessful or cannot be implemented legally.

What makes the Eisbach wave at the English Garden so special?

The Eisbach has been the talk of the town for months—and will continue to be so as we look to the future of the wave. It will return and once again become a gathering place for surfers and onlookers. Read on to find out why this legendary spot near the English Garden is so special and what you can expect there. 

A taste of Munich life

• The Eisbach Wave is not just a place for sports, but also a part of Munich’s urban culture. The standing wave was created in the 1970s following the installation of structures and is considered one of the most consistent and largest river waves in the heart of a major city worldwide—a magnet for professional surfers as well as photographers and curious onlookers.
• In 2010, the City of Munich acquired the site from the Free State of Bavaria as part of a land swap involving a plot in the English Garden on Königinstraße. This marked the first time that surfing on the Eisbach wave—a practice that had been going on for decades—was legally regulated.
• The Eisbach Wave has been attracting surfers from all over the world for many years and is also an important gathering place for the community. It embodies urban sports culture, international interest, and Munich’s unique lifestyle—a blend of nature, city life, and leisure culture. As a community hub, a popular photo spot, and a staple of many city tours, it plays a special role in Munich.

Location and Visit to the Eisbach wave

• The Eisbach Wave is located directly on Prinzregentenstraße at the southern edge of the English Garden, near the Haus der Kunst. The area is easily accessible and very busy. In addition to surfers, many pedestrians and tourists come to watch the wave and the activity on the shore.
• Anyone visiting the Eisbach Wave should be prepared for a lively atmosphere with many people and should prioritize safety and consideration for others.

Directions to the Eisbach wave

The Eisbach wave is easily accessible by public transport, as well as by bike or car. Parking in the vicinity of the Eisbach wave is limited, especially during peak times and on fine days.

Recommended arrival by public transport:

• Underground (U-Bahn): to Lehel (U4/U5) or Odeonsplatz (U3/U6), then approx. 10–15 minutes on foot.
• Suburban train (S-Bahn): to Marienplatz or Isartor, then continue on foot, or by underground or tram.
• Tram: to Nationalmuseum/Haus der Kunst (line 16).
• Bus: to Nationalmuseum/Haus der Kunst (line 100).

On foot or by bike:

• The Eisbach wave can easily be incorporated into a walk through the English Garden.
• Due to the limited space on site, bicycles should not be parked directly at the wave; please be considerate of other visitors and keep emergency access routes clear.

Surf legend Robby Naish rides the Eisbach wave

• The Eisbach wave is the subject of the multi-award-winning German documentary Keep Surfing (2009), directed by Björn Richie Lob. The 91-minute film centres on Munich’s river surfing scene, following key figures who gather at the standing wave in the English Garden and telling their stories. In doing so, it portrays the Eisbach wave as a place of identity and a stage for surf culture in the heart of the city.
• A true surfing legend made an appearance at the Eisbach in summer 2021: multiple world champion Robby Naish visited the wave in the English Garden and took the opportunity to surf right in the middle of the city—giving fellow surfers and spectators the rare chance to see the American icon up close.
• The Munich Tatort duo Ivo Batic (Miroslav Nemec) and Franz Leitmayr (Udo Wachtveitl) also investigated at the Eisbach in 2019, in the episode Tatort “Die ewige Welle”, immersing their characters in the subculture of river surfing.

Rules and Safety at the Eisbach wave

Surfing the Eisbach wave is demanding and involves risks. Clear rules and safety regulations therefore apply on site to protect surfers and visitors alike. Surfing is only permitted in compliance with these requirements and the current regulations—and is currently not allowed at all due to the existing ban.

Key points for anyone at the Eisbach wave:

• Surfing at the Eisbach wave involves hazards and is generally only suitable for experienced surfers.
• Emergency access routes and sensitive areas around the wave must be kept clear.
• Signage, markings and on-site instructions must be strictly observed.
• Visitors should keep a sufficient distance and avoid entering hazardous riverbank or water areas.

In recent years, various measures have been implemented to improve safety around the Eisbach wave. These include additional signage, technical adjustments, and enhancements to rescue and monitoring systems. These measures are continuously reviewed and adapted as required.

FAQ: Questions and answers about the Eisbach wave

What is the Eisbach wave?

The Eisbach wave is a standing wave in a side branch of the Isar, located in the English Garden in Munich. It is one of the city’s best-known surf spots and a firmly established part of Munich’s leisure and urban culture.

Where is the Eisbach wave located?

The Eisbach wave is located at Prinzregentenstraße, 80538 Munich, right on the southern edge of the English Garden.

Is surfing currently allowed?

No. Surfing on the Eisbach wave is currently prohibited until further notice. Up-to-date information is provided by the City of Munich in its official announcements and on signage on site.

Why is there currently a surfing ban?

The city cites a hazardous situation in the area of the wave as the reason for the ban. According to the current situation, the wave largely consists of non-surfable whitewater, which can pull surfers underwater. In addition, emergency services are to be protected from dangerous operations in the immediate vicinity of the wave.

Can you still visit the Eisbach wave?

Yes. The Eisbach wave remains a prominent spot in the English Garden and can be visited even when surfing is not permitted. It is important to keep a safe distance, respect barriers, and follow all instructions and notices on site.

Is the Eisbach wave suitable for beginners when surfing is allowed again?

The Eisbach wave is a demanding spot and is more suitable for experienced surfers. Beginners should not attempt to surf there without the appropriate experience and preparation.

Is swimming or bathing allowed at the Eisbach wave?

No, swimming and bathing are not permitted at the Eisbach wave.

How can I find out if the status changes?

Any changes to the surfing ban or conditions of use are publicly announced by the City of Munich. In addition, on-site signage provides information about the current situation.