Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk reopens this weekend for shopping, dining

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION) The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk announced they are preparing to open their doors this weekend for limited activities.

While the rides will still be closed at this time as well as arcades, mini-golf and other attractions, starting Saturday, select food concessions and retail shops will open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

"We miss it. We miss it a lot, especially since it's just right in front of our face," said Daisy Thayer, a Santa Cruz resident. "We live right up the street, we get to look at it every day and it's definitely strange not seeing anyone on the Giant Dipper."

The public is welcome to walk through, sit and shop at the Boardwalk.

"Oh it's been a ghost town. It's been an absolute ghost town. No laughter or cheer from any of the tourists in town at the Boardwalk," said Thayer.

Of course, COVID-19-related health and safety guidelines will still be enforced. Only the Boardwalk's main entrance and entrance 3 will be open. You can only walk between the Colonnade and the Haunted Castle.

All employees will be screened prior to the start of their workday, including temperature checks. Face coverings will be required by everyone. Capacity will be limited to ensure social distancing as well.

The park will provide hand sanitizers throughout. For many in Santa Cruz, the Boardwalk means a whole lot more than just somewhere to go.

"We need community more than ever right now, especially during these times," said Thayer. "If we need a light in the tunnel, I think bringing people together with something like this where people can laugh and eat together and not think about what we're going through right now."

The Boardwalk says any 2020 season passes purchased before the park reopens will be valid for a year from the park's reopening date.