The Eisbach surfer wave in Munich: The "Eisbachwelle"

One of Munich’s top attractions for sports fans and tourists alike. The Eisbachwelle is the largest, best and most consistent city centre location for river surfing.

Plan route

The waves on the Eisbach river at the entrance to the Englischer Garten (park) attract surfers and onlookers from around the world. The spot is famous throughout the world for being the largest, best and most consistent city centre location for river surfing. People have been surfing here for 40 years.

By the way: in 2024, the Eisbachwelle was voted one of the top 100 most beautiful beaches in the world. This is the only ranking in Germany and ahead of Ipanema beach.

Gallery: Eisbachwelle

The man-made Eisbach river emerges from underground just a few steps away from the Haus der Kunst (art gallery) on Prinzregentenstrasse in the Lehel district. A stone step at the outlet generates a standing wave about half a metre tall.

Eisbachwelle in Munich: surf or watch

The surfers’ stunts are a popular snapshot for the large crowds that gather to watch. Thanks to their wetsuits, surfers can ride the waves any time they want and in all weather conditions, even in winter. International stars of the surfing scene, like Jack Johnson and Garret McNamara, have also been spotted on the waves.

Visiting the spot to watch the action is recommended at any time; however, only professional surfers should attempt to ride the waves as the spot is not easy nor without risk and is unsuitable for beginners.

Address

Spectators and surfers will find the Eisbachwelle in Prinzregentenstraße opposite number 22 in 80538 Munich.

Guided Tours

Several pedicaps with guests in the Englischer Garten (park).

155 € for 2 persons

Guided Tours

Pedicab tour through the old town and nature

Enjoy this special tour and pedicap ride past all the famous sights of Munich's old town and into the Englischer Garten.

Book now

Frequently asked questions about the Eisbachwelle

What are the rules?

The following regulations apply to ensure that surfing on the Eisbach wave remains safe:

Permitted times: Surfing is only permitted between 5:30 am and 10 pm.

For experienced surfers only: The Eisbach wave is intended for experienced surfers. The Eisbach wave is relatively difficult and dangerous to surf because the water is shallow and the current is strong. Surfing beginners are better off trying out the rafting area in Thalkirchen - this wave is smaller and there are fewer onlookers.

Accompaniment required: You are not allowed to surf alone - an accompanying person is mandatory so that you can get help quickly in an emergency.

Self-releasing leash is mandatory: A self-releasing safety leash must be used to prevent you from getting caught in a fall and being pulled under water.

How is the Eisbach wave created in Munich?

In the past, the Eisbach wave was completely natural - it only formed when, for example, gravel accumulated in the riverbed and blocked the current. At that time, however, the wave was only surfable for a few weeks a year and could not be planned due to its irregularity. Walter Strasser from Munich changed that in the 80s on his own initiative: he installed a railway sleeper in the lateral river bed. Today, Munich's surfers also have a mobile ramp with which they can stabilise the Eisbach wave.

Is the Eisbach dangerous?

The Eisbach is not entirely safe for swimming and surfing. The low water temperature and the strong current should never be underestimated! If you go surfing at the Eisbach wave, you should definitely wear a helmet, because there are stones in the water below the wave.

Are there any other places to surf?

Indoor surfing is available at the Jochen Schweizer Arena. Europe's first and largest surf park, O2 Surftown MUC, is located in Hallbergmoos near Munich. The Dianabadschwelle is classified as E2 (small Eisbach wave) and is also located in the English Garden. And the Floßlände surf wave in Thalkirchen is idyllically nestled in the Floßlände.