A few months back, I took my first-ever trip to San Francisco. This included an unplanned drive down to Santa Cruz, which has a rather famous boardwalk you may have seen before.

Yes, this is the place where THE LOST BOYS hung out in “Santa Carla”. I’m happy to report that the wooden rollercoaster, The Giant Dipper, featured in the film was still there and celebrating its 100th anniversary!

The Boardwalk may also look familiar to Jordan Peele fans, as it was highlighted in the opening of his acclaimed thriller, US. It also got onscreen time thanks to the kooky cult classic, KILLER KLOWNS FROM OUTER SPACE. Other Hollywood hits that have used the site for its backdrop include the Michelle Pfeiffer vehicle DANGEROUS MINDS (1995), the hit Dirty Harry sequel SUDDEN IMPACT (1983), and the Frankie & Annette reunion flick BACK TO THE BEACH (1987). Paying tribute to this, the Boardwalk has a small area featuring posters of some of the films made there.
Seeing it in the offseason was strangely quiet, but the sun was still warm and we had the whole place to ourselves. Though the rides were only operating on the weekends by that point, there were other attractions to enjoy, including some vendors, arcades, a great pirate-themed miniature golf course, and the beautiful beach area overlooking Monterey Bay.

If you’re ever in the area, definitely check it out. It’s a fun spot for adults and kids alike. And who knows, you just might run into Kiefer Sutherland…or your own doppelganger.
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