California surfer killed in Costa Rica home invasion

Girlfriend zip-tied, authorities say

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Kurt Van Dyke, a 66-year-old California surf legend, was found dead in his Costa Rican home after a weekend home invasion. His 31-year-old girlfriend was restrained with zip ties, and the assailants stole valuables and a vehicle before the attack.

Why it matters

The killing of Van Dyke, a long-time Caribbean resident and business owner, has shocked the surfing community and raised concerns about crime and safety for American expatriates and tourists in Costa Rica.

The details

According to investigators, two armed male assailants confined Van Dyke and his girlfriend in a single room, stole valuables, and then attacked Van Dyke, leaving him dead under a bed with multiple stab wounds and signs of asphyxiation. The girlfriend, identified only as Arroyo, had the couple's 2013 Hyundai Elantra stolen from the property.

  • The home invasion occurred on Saturday morning.

The players

Kurt Van Dyke

A 66-year-old California surf legend who owned a hostel in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica.

Arroyo

Van Dyke's 31-year-old girlfriend who was restrained with zip ties during the home invasion.

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What they’re saying

“We remember your spirit, your energy, and the light you brought into the lives around you. Some people leave footprints — you left waves.”

— Ronald Umaña, Friend of Van Dyke (Facebook)

“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)

What’s next

Costa Rican officials are investigating the killing but have made no arrests.

The takeaway

The tragic death of Kurt Van Dyke, a beloved figure in the surfing community, has raised concerns about the safety of American expatriates and tourists in Costa Rica, highlighting the need for improved security measures and cooperation between local authorities and foreign nationals.