Park Review
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Santa Cruz, California August 15, 2001 After completing the always exciting "over the hill" commute through the Santa Cruz mountains from San Jose, I arrived in my old stomping grounds, beautiful Capitola, California in Santa Cruz county. I had reservations at the incredible legend of a restaurant, Shadowbrook. Note to those of you who ever plan to visit SCBB, you should definitely dine at Shadowbrook. It is dining experience like no other! The restaurant is absolutely beautiful (constructed of redwood) and has consistently amazing service and exquisite food (continental fare ~$20 a plate). Enough about my meal! After completing my meal, I decided, spur of the moment, to head over to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Given that it was already past 9 pm, I wasn't planning to spend much time at the park. I was, in fact, on a primal mission - to pay a visit to my old friend the Giant Dipper. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is famous for a number of reasons. It is considered to be the only true seaside amusement park left on the west Coast (unless you count places like Pacific Park in Santa Monica or Belmont Park in San Diego). It was also featured prevalently in the movie Lost Boys. Last, but not least, it features two rides that are historical landmarks both designed by Frederick Looff: a carousel and a wooden coaster by the name of the Giant Dipper. Upon arriving at SCBB around 9:30 pm, I immediately headed over to the ticket window and purchased six tickets. I then got on line for the Giant Dipper. About fifteen minutes later, I was sitting in my favorite seat for this coast, the last one. Now this coaster is far from the tallest, fastest or longest woodie I have ridden but it is still one of my favorites. One of things I love about this ride (and of the things that makes it somewhat more unique) is that the ride begins, so to speak, before the lift hill. The immediate acceleration down combined with an initial tunnel (complete with an echo effect of riders screams of surprise of excitement) is a great touch that I always enjoy. As for the rest of ride, As always, filled with great views, great drops and decent airtime. Andrew
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