Surf Legend from Prominent Santa Cruz Family Killed in Costa Rica Home

Kurt Van Dyke, a well-known surfer and hostel owner, was killed by armed intruders in his Costa Rica residence.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Kurt Van Dyke, a 66-year-old surf legend from a prominent Santa Cruz surfing family, was killed by armed intruders in his home in Cahuita, Costa Rica on Saturday. Van Dyke and his 31-year-old girlfriend were tied up by the intruders, who then assaulted Van Dyke and fled with some of the couple's valuables, including a vehicle. Van Dyke's body was later found under a bed with a sheet over his head, having suffered asphyxiation and multiple stab wounds.

Why it matters

The incident has shocked the local community in Costa Rica's Caribbean region, which is typically known for its calm and low levels of violent crime. However, the area has seen an increase in organized crime and trafficking activity in recent years, raising concerns about public safety.

The details

According to reports, two armed intruders broke into Van Dyke's apartment, tied up him and his girlfriend, and then assaulted Van Dyke before fleeing with some of the couple's valuables. Van Dyke's body was later found under a bed with a sheet over his head, having suffered asphyxiation and multiple stab wounds.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
  • Van Dyke's body was discovered under the bed.

The players

Kurt Van Dyke

A 66-year-old surf legend from a prominent Santa Cruz surfing family who owned a hostel in Cahuita, Costa Rica.

Arroyo

Van Dyke's 31-year-old girlfriend who was also tied up by the intruders.

Peter Van Dyke

Kurt Van Dyke's brother, who described him as a "very benevolent, giving person who would help just about anybody."

Roger Sams

The president of the Southern Caribbean Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, who stated that the incident was an isolated case and that the region has typically been calm.

Gene and Betty Van Dyke

Kurt Van Dyke's parents, who were pioneering surf-loving farmers in Santa Cruz.

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What they’re saying

“My brother was a very benevolent, giving person who would help just about anybody. Kurt would never hurt anybody, and he was always there when you needed him. Everyone that he met knew this about him.”

— Peter Van Dyke, Kurt Van Dyke's brother (San Francisco Chronicle)

“We have the Police delegation in Playa Negra, the cantonal, which is the most modern in the country. We are working hand in hand on security issues. It shocks us and hurts us, because the Caribbean has been very calm.”

— Roger Sams, President of the Southern Caribbean Chamber of Tourism and Commerce (Surfer)

“There have been no cases of violence reported like this against tourists. In recent months there has been no violence or assaults. This is an isolated case, he is the owner of a hotel, not a tourist, it has not to do with tourists and the people who come to visit us.”

— Roger Sams, President of the Southern Caribbean Chamber of Tourism and Commerce (Surfer)

What’s next

Authorities in Costa Rica are investigating the incident and working to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible for the attack.

The takeaway

The tragic death of Kurt Van Dyke, a beloved member of the Santa Cruz surfing community, highlights the growing concerns about the spread of organized crime and violence in the once-peaceful Caribbean region of Costa Rica, raising questions about public safety and security for both residents and tourists.