San Luis Obispo has some of the best boutiques to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. There is no double that you will see SLO’s small-town charm come through in our quaint shops time and time again. There are some things that big brand stores just don’t have, so why not shop small for the holidays?
San Luis Obispo is once again joining the American Express campaign, Small Business Saturday, to celebrate and support our local shops. This event encourages shoppers to get out and support the stores and restaurants that make San Luis Obispo shopping and cuisine options unlike any other. SLO Transit is even offering free bus services to get you to and from your shopping excursion—no excuses.
Below is a roundup of a few of our favorite Downtown SLO shops to help you get your Christmas shopping done. We encourage you to come visit SLO and see for yourself the magic of Small Business Saturday!
Where to Shop in San Luis Obispo
Central Coast Surfboards
855 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo
Surfs up! Here in SLO we know a thing or two about catching a wave. That’s why Central Coast Surfboards is an ideal one-stop-shop for all you need surf— and skate! Find the perfect gift for your shred-loving friends and family right in the heart of Downtown San Luis Obispo.
Humankind Fair Trade
982 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo
Want to do good for the world? Humankind Fair Trade is a Fair Trade Federation boutique that promotes the support of artisans and farmers in developing countries. You can rest assured knowing that everything you purchase from the shop is eco-friendly, made in ethical working conditions and helping local economies in less fortunate communities. Not to mention, they have beautiful jewelry, accessories, and home goods.
Tails Pet Boutique
745 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
Your furry companions are family too, so why not treat them with a present? This local pet boutique carries all you could ever want for your dogs and cats; including collars, leashes, toys, and quality pet food. If you feel like making them feel extra special, Tails has pet-friendly baked goods so everyone can enjoy holiday treats.
Lulu Luxe
864 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
Lulu Luxe is the perfect go-to for the fashionista in your life. Give that style star of yours the gift of top-notch fashion. You’ll be sure to find all the female trends—and, for this Small Business Saturday everything is buy one get one half off. Head in to see why they have become a local pick time and time again for their fun flair and great customer service.
Kin Coffee Bar
837 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo
Looking to grab a little something to sip on while you hit Small Business Saturday? Stop by Kin Coffee for $2 off drinks and free cookies in celebration of shopping local. Try a regular brew or venture out and experience their trademark matcha drinks, either way, you don’t want to miss out.
Hands Gallery
777 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
For over 25 years, Hands Gallery has been providing the community with one-of-a-kind gifts from local artists and craftsmen. If you want to buy your friends and family something SLO-specific and irreplaceable, this is the shop for you. From ceramics to furniture, Hands Gallery showcases the work of artisans of all mediums—there’s something for everyone!
Blackwater
778 Higuera Street, Suite E, San Luis Obispo
Blackwater’s bohemian apparel is perfect for the event or festival-goer in your life. This mother-daughter owned boutique is full of unique handpicked goods. On top of having unique apparel, they sell succulents, jewelry, candles, incense and items for magic.
Ecobambino
863 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo
Even the youngest of children know and love the holiday season. Ecobambino has the perfect natural, eco-friendly necessities for the baby, toddler or young child in your life. They have all of the essentials like burp cloths and sippy cups, as well as puzzles, toys and play mats. Better yet, it’s owned by a local mom with a passion for selecting healthy and safe children’s products.
The Sock Drawer
852 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
Who knew that so many different kinds of socks existed? At The Sock Drawer, you can get socks covered in Bob Ross’s face, pancakes, and even corgis. Find the perfect pair for your friends and family right in the heart of downtown—it’s something that nearly everyone wears, and the patterns will knock your socks off. What could be more fun than that?
Grab Your “Shop Small Passport”
Shopping small also comes with a perk when you are shopping in SLO. The Downtown SLO Association is bringing back the “Shop Small Passport,” which allows shoppers to fill up their “passports” with stamps from local businesses for a chance to win a gift basket loaded with gift cards. Regardless, it’s important to support your favorite local shops in SLO, so shop small on Saturday, November 30.