Greetings FemaleDuck,
Thanks for visiting the West Coast Travel Forum.
All three of our West Coast Travel States (California, Oregon and Washington) provide many wonderful opportunities for backpackers of every level. Which state will you be visiting?
Regarding the weather: Unless you are traveling to the beach in southern California, the weather in mid-January is likely to be cold (40-ish or less), rainy and windy. But, if you are dressed appropriately, this weather makes for great beach combing and cozy home fires.
Write back with some specifics and I'll be happy to help with more information.