American Surfing Legend Kurt Van Dyke Killed At 66

Van Dyke, a Northern California native who owned a hotel in Costa Rica, was found stabbed and strangled in his apartment.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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American surfing legend Kurt Van Dyke was found dead at his apartment in Cahuita, Costa Rica over the weekend. The 66-year-old was discovered stabbed and strangled, while his 31-year-old girlfriend was found tied up but uninjured. Police are investigating the incident as a suspected home invasion robbery.

Why it matters

Van Dyke was a prominent figure in the surfing community, coming from a legendary surfing family. His death has shocked the surf world and raised concerns about crime and safety in the coastal region where he lived and operated a hotel.

The details

According to reports, police responded to a call about a break-in and attack at Van Dyke's apartment around 10:50 AM local time on Saturday. They found Van Dyke with multiple stab wounds and signs of asphyxiation. The suspects allegedly took valuable items from the apartment before fleeing in separate vehicles, including one taken from the residence.

  • On February 15, 2026, police responded to a report of a break-in and attack at Van Dyke's apartment around 10:50 AM local time.

The players

Kurt Van Dyke

A 66-year-old American surfing legend and hotel owner in Costa Rica, originally from Santa Cruz, California.

Van Dyke's girlfriend

A 31-year-old woman who was found tied up but uninjured in Van Dyke's apartment.

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What they’re saying

“We're deeply saddened to share the news that California surfer Kurt Van Dyke, a longtime Costa Rica resident and owner of Hotel Puerto Viejo, was tragically killed in a suspected home invasion in Cahuita.”

— Raw Surf (Raw Surf)

“Kurt, originally from Santa Cruz, came from a true surf lineage and built his life around waves, community, and hospitality. Friends and family describe him as generous, kind, and someone who would help anyone who needed it. A pillar in the local surf community.”

— Raw Surf (Raw Surf)

What’s next

Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and search for the suspects involved in the home invasion and robbery.

The takeaway

The tragic death of surfing legend Kurt Van Dyke has sent shockwaves through the global surf community, highlighting the risks and vulnerabilities that even prominent figures can face, even in seemingly idyllic coastal regions. This incident raises important questions about safety, security, and the challenges of maintaining a vibrant surf culture and hospitality industry in the face of criminal activity.