Opposite several A-gates, this Johnnie Walker runs 24/7.
This duty free shop in Terminal A at SJO focuses almost entirely on Johnnie Walker whisky, open 24 hours a day for late-night and 5 a.m. departures. You’ll see the usual labels lined up: Red, Black, Double Black, Gold, Green, and Blue, with occasional travel-exclusive editions on a separate shelf. Stock skews to 1L and 750 ml bottles, so don’t count on minis or gift packs in every visit.
Prices sit below typical US airport duty free, but not by half; figure a modest savings versus buying a 750 ml bottle of Black Label at home. Staff in Terminal A rotate, and someone is usually free to walk you through the step-up from Black to Gold or Green if you ask. You can pay in USD, CRC, or major credit cards, which speeds things up if your boarding time at gate A5 or A7 is creeping closer.
Selection is narrow but deep: multiple bottle sizes of the same core labels rather than dozens of brands. If you want rum, gin, or non-alcohol souvenirs, you’ll need one of the other duty free spots in Terminal A or B instead. This counter works best for one quick whisky purchase on the way to passport control or right before an overnight long-haul.
One practical tip: check your destination’s duty free allowance on your airline’s app before you buy, then keep the sealed Johnnie Walker bag and receipt handy for any security re-screen at a transit airport within 24 hours.