Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will open its rides on Thursday

Have you missed those exhilarating rides on the Giant Dipper?

After the COVID-19 crisis forced the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to shut down for only the second time in its history, this coast-side attraction will again welcome thrill-seekers starting Thursday.

“Everyone at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been preparing for this important moment in our unique and storied history,” Boardwalk spokesman Kris Reyes said in a statement. “We look forward to reopening rides to California residents in a manner that ensures the health and safety of all Boardwalk guests and employees.”

That means Boardwalk capacity will be limited, all attractions will be closed periodically for cleaning and sanitizing — and all guests must wear face masks, including on rides.

Eight to 12 rides will operate daily from April 1-11 and then on weekends only for the rest of April. The rest of the spring season will be announced soon, Reyes said.

The Giant Dipper, the landmark 1924 wooden roller coaster, will be operating on the reopening day, Reyes confirmed.

Online reservations are highly recommended, and bookings are now open for the April 1-11 period. Ride wristbands are also available for advance purchase. Walk-up customers will be accommodated only when park capacity allows.

For months the boardwalk was open only for breezy walks and purchases of food, salt-water taffy, clothing and other souvenirs. Those shops will remain open. In addition, if Santa Cruz County moves into the state’s orange tier early this week, then the Boardwalk Bowl also will reopen Thursday.

For reservations and details, go to www.beachboardwalk.com.