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Fun Things to Do in Santa Barbara: January 2023

It’s a New Year and a great opportunity to rediscover your passion for Adventure!

Santa Barbara is an amazing place with warm weather year-round. SB winters are well-known for amazing sunsets, great surf, and perfect hiking weather all day! Plus, last month brought much-needed rain to Central California and as a result, our hillsides are now covered in a beautiful and lush, green flora.

There are so many fun things to do both indoors and outdoors this January. See some of our suggestions below:

“Paddling Into a Natural Balance” with Writer & Photographer Chuck Graham
WHERE: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
WHEN: January 19, 2023
TIME: 7:00 to 8:30PM
ADMISSION: $20.00 for general public
As part of his presentation, Chuck will recount his many adventures hiking and kayaking the Santa Barbara Channel Islands—and will share many of his award-winning photographs that document the islands and their recovery over the past 30+ years. — REGISTER NOW

Winter Happy Hour
WHERE: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
WHEN: January 26, 2023
TIME: 5:30-8:00PM
ADMISSION: $14.00 for general public
Come play, drink and be curious at Santa Barbara’s home for hands-on learning. Explore all three floors of exhibits including the rooftop Sky Garden featuring panoramic views of Santa Barbara. Beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. This event is for ages 21+. — BUY TICKETS

Sunset Kayak in Santa Barbara Harbor
WHEN: Every evening in January
WHERE: Santa Barbara Harbor
Winter is the best time of year for sunsets in Santa Barbara due to seasonal weather patterns including offshore winds. These winds keep the coast fog-free and carry medium and high-level clouds across the sky. Join us for a spectacular twilight sky viewing on our very special Sunset Kayak Tour! — Book Now

Monarch Butterfly Migration
WHERE: Ellwood Mesa
WHEN: Every day in January
The monarch butterfly migration occurs annually between November and February each year. This year there have been exciting reports of above-average butterfly sightings. You can go and see the monarchs for yourself at Sperling Preserve and Goleta Bluffs — all part of Ellwood Mesa.

Hike up to Montecito Peak
WHERE: Cold Spring Trailhead
LENGTH: 7.6 miles (out & back)
DIFFICULTY: Strenuous
Enjoy the cooler winter weather on a nice, long hike that features a creek, small waterfall, and panoramic views atop Montecito Peak.

Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour at Channel Islands National Park
WHEN: Every day in January
WHERE: Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island
Yes, it’s true, our Channel Islands kayak tours run year-round! Join us as we explore world-renowned sea caves, giant kelp forests and recreate alongside wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. — Book Now

Karaoke Night
WHERE: The James Joyce
WHEN: Every Sunday & Monday in January
TIME: 9PM
Sitting at home bored on a Sunday or Monday night? Get your friends together for fun, drinks, and karaoke at State Street’s famous bar The James Joyce.

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