Sunshine Brings Hot Winter Tourism to Santa Barbara and other So Cal Areas

Sunshine and temperatures over 60 degrees higher than some areas of the U.S. have combined to be a sizzling tourism boost to end 2014.

That’s what Santa Barbara and many Southern California areas are seeing.

Some visitors around Stearns Wharf said it was three degrees when they left their homes in New Mexico two days ago. Today’s high was 64. Bob Dye, from Raton, New Mexico said he was concerned his pipes at home would be freezing but he enjoyed the Santa Barbara sun too much to worry about it. He was also in the area helping his some with wedding plans. His trip also includes a day at Disneyland.

One couple from Connecticut, riding bikes, have a second home in Santa Barbara just to escape the cold weather from the east.

Many visitors from colder areas had light clothing on, and big smiles.

One visitor, Tracy Trotter from Denver is sending pictures back of sunshine and palm trees to her friends in snowy, cold conditions. She says the responses are “angry.”

The weather is expected to be in the low 60’s the rest of the week, with overnight lows in the 30’s and 40’s.

For a Monday, many restaurants were packed, and hotels had solid business.

It’s also going to be a good pay check for employees who are picking up many extra hours due to the boost in business.

This is considered one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.