About Us

The Sanctuary Tobacco Shop was established in 1992, when Doug Shaw purchased the existing tobacco shop. The downtown location has been a tobacco shop since 1973. Doug remodeled the store in 1993 to bring out the character of the century old building; he exposed the brick walls, introduced rich hard woods, and refinished the wood floor. It was at this time Doug added a lounge/loft that, to this day, many of our customers do not notice until they hear voices from above. Feel free to come on down and join us for a relaxing cigar or pipe full and experience a traditional tobacco shop.

At The Sanctuary there is one saying that defines us: “The only work free, smoke place in San Luis Obispo.” The Sanctuary we strives to have a relaxing atmosphere for all of our customers to enjoy. We carry a full line of handmade cigars, pipes as well as all the smoking requisites you will need. In recent years we have added a selection men’s gifts. Come on down and join Doug and the regulars for a relaxing afternoon.  Good smokes, good fellowship and good friends.