Santa Cruz: Where Movie Magic Meets the Beach
Santa Cruz, California, is a charming coastal city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and a rich history. But did you know it's also a popular location for film and television productions? From classic movies to modern-day series, Santa Cruz has served as a backdrop for countless stories.
A Cinematic History:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been a frequent star, appearing in movies like:
- "The Lost Boys" (1987): This cult classic, featuring a young Kiefer Sutherland and Corey Haim, used the boardwalk and the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster as a key setting.
- "The Sandlot" (1993): Though filmed mostly in Southern California, the movie's iconic opening scene with the baseball flying over the fence was actually shot at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
- "The Craft" (1996): This teen horror film used the boardwalk's amusement rides and the iconic lighthouse as filming locations.
Beyond the Boardwalk:
Other popular Santa Cruz locations featured in films include:
- The Santa Cruz Wharf: Featured in "The Jewel of the Nile" (1985) and "The Last Castle" (2001).
- Seabright Beach: A key location for scenes in "The Sandpiper" (1965), featuring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.
- The Santa Cruz Mountains: Used as filming locations for "The Birds" (1963) and "The Goonies" (1985).
A Modern Renaissance:
Santa Cruz continues to be a popular choice for filming today, with its natural beauty and charming small-town vibe attracting filmmakers from all genres:
- "The OA" (Netflix): This sci-fi drama series featured the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and surrounding areas.
- "Stranger Things" (Netflix): The popular series filmed scenes at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and along West Cliff Drive.
- "Big Little Lies" (HBO): The hit series featuring Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman filmed scenes at Seabright Beach.
Beyond the Big Screen:
Santa Cruz's cinematic appeal extends beyond feature films and television shows. The city has hosted several film festivals and events, including the Santa Cruz Film Festival and the Santa Cruz Documentary Film Festival.
Visiting Santa Cruz:
If you're a film buff or simply looking for a charming coastal destination, Santa Cruz is a must-visit. You can walk in the footsteps of your favorite movie characters, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and experience the unique charm of this coastal California gem.
