Surfing Legend Kurt Van Dyke Found Dead in Costa Rica

Van Dyke, a prominent figure in the surfing community, was killed in an apparent home invasion.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Kurt Van Dyke, a legendary California surfer, was found dead in his home in Costa Rica after an apparent home invasion. Van Dyke, 66, was known as the "King" among the local surfing community in Costa Rica, where he had lived for decades and owned a hostel that drew visitors from around the world. His death has shocked the local community and the broader surfing world.

Why it matters

Van Dyke's death is a tragic loss for the surfing community, both in California and Costa Rica, where he was a respected and beloved figure. His family was also prominent in the history of surfing in Northern California, making his death all the more impactful. The incident also raises concerns about safety and security in the coastal region of Costa Rica.

The details

According to reports, Van Dyke's body showed signs of strangulation and stab wounds, and an autopsy is underway. Two armed men reportedly threatened Van Dyke and a woman, stole items from the home, and apparently took a vehicle. The woman suffered minor injuries. The case remains under investigation by Costa Rican authorities.

  • The incident was reported around 10:50 a.m. local time on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • Van Dyke had been a longtime resident of Costa Rica since the 1980s.

The players

Kurt Van Dyke

A 66-year-old California surfing legend who had lived in Costa Rica for decades and owned a popular hostel in the coastal town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Gene Van Dyke

Kurt Van Dyke's father, who was a pioneer of surfing in Northern California in the 1950s.

Betty Van Dyke

Kurt Van Dyke's mother, who was a member of a cohort of female surfing pioneers in Santa Cruz in the 1950s and 1960s.

Peter Van Dyke

Kurt Van Dyke's brother, who confirmed his death to local media.

Roger Sams

The president of the Southern Caribbean Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, who expressed shock and sadness over the incident.

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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.”

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

“This is how I will always remember him, doing what he loved, RIP My Brother.”

— Garth Seagrave, Longtime friend of Kurt Van Dyke (Facebook)

“He was a class act. Just someone who you'd want to hang out with ... was passionate about surfing; passionate about life.”

— Bob Pearson, Well-known surfer in Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Sentinel)

What’s next

Authorities in Costa Rica continue to investigate the incident and search for the suspects involved in the apparent home invasion and murder of Kurt Van Dyke.

The takeaway

The tragic death of surfing legend Kurt Van Dyke has sent shockwaves through the global surfing community, highlighting the risks and dangers that can sometimes come with living and traveling in remote coastal regions. His legacy as a pioneering figure in the sport and a beloved member of the Costa Rican surfing scene will not be forgotten.