Surfing in Germany? Who knew? Although Germany has more than 3500 km of coastline along the North and Baltic Seas, the most popular surf spot is in the Bavarian city of Munich on the Eisbach River. 365 days a year, you can find surfers taking turns, while onlookers line the river banks and the bridge above.

Eisbach is German for “icy brook” with average temperatures from 50-62 °F (10-17 °C). Although the 2 km long Eisbach River rarely freezes due to its strong currents, it can easily reach extremely low temperatures in the winter.

River surfing on the Eisbach became a thing in the early 1970s when the city submerged several concrete blocks under the bridge to block the strong river current. At that time, the wave was inconsistent and unstable until someone figured out to install a few wooden planks to stabilize and improve the wave’s rideability. But the big problem was, river surfing was a crime, so only the hardcore surfers would risk it.

At one point, the local authorities threatened to destroy the wave in order to keep surfers away. However, a group of local enthusiasts ran a petition, created a website, and increased public awareness to try to save the artificial surf break. Eventually the authorities conceded, and together with the surfing community they created some rules to make it safer, such as allowing only one surfer at a time, and strictly prohibiting drugs and alcohol.

The average ride lasts between 20 to 40 seconds, which will allow you to do a few turns and maybe a couple of airs, pop shove-its, and kick flips, whatever those are. It also keeps the line moving since it can get really crowded at times.

A stationary wave is not an ocean wave, and can be tricky to master due to its fast-flowing characteristics. At Eisbach, you don't paddle into the wave - you jump onto it from both river banks.

The Eisbach features a fast and powerful current - 20 tons per second. Every year, people lose their lives swimming here. So, never ride the break all by yourself.

#RiverSurfing #SurfingInMunich #GermanSurfers #EisbachWave

Music: Catch a Wave by Everet Almond

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