If you plan on going in January, I would also recommend (if time and budget allows) a trip up to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I was there in January a couple of years ago, and while it was cold, there was no one in the park. They are only open for limited operation, but you can ride and ride all day long with barely any lines. The Giant Dipper should not be missed! I haven't checked if they have the same schedule for next year, but they should be open in January.