If you’re planning a trip to Panama or staying for a while, you might be curious about everyday costs — including how much alcohol costs in local supermarkets. Whether you’re budgeting for a vacation, comparing prices with other countries, or just want to know what to expect, this guide breaks down typical alcohol prices you’ll find in Panama’s supermarkets and grocery stores.
Panama has a lively bar and nightlife culture, but buying alcohol from a supermarket is often much cheaper than drinking at bars or restaurants. Supermarkets across the country — from big cities like Panama City to smaller towns like Boquete or David — sell a wide range of beers, wines, and spirits at prices that many visitors find reasonable.
Beer Prices in Panama Supermarkets
Beer is the most commonly purchased alcoholic beverage in Panamanian stores, and prices can vary depending on brand, type, and where you shop:
Local Panama beers (like Balboa, Atlas, Samuel Adams — although Samuel Adams isn’t local, it’s widely available): These are usually the cheapest options. A single 330–355 ml bottle or can of local beer typically costs about $1.00–$1.50 at a supermarket.
Six‑packs of local beer: Expect to pay around $6.00–$9.00 depending on the brand and store.
Imported beers: Larger or imported brands (like Corona, Heineken, etc.) generally cost more, around $1.50–$2.50 per bottle or can.
Craft beer: Panama’s craft beer scene is growing, and locally brewed craft bottles (usually 355–500 ml) in supermarkets often range from $3.00–$6.00 or more.
These prices are typical in supermarkets like Super 99, Rey, Riba Smith, Xtra, and neighborhood mini‑supers.
Wine Prices in Panama Supermarkets
Wine tends to cost more in Panama than beer, partly because most wine is imported:
House wines/entry level bottles: You’ll usually find wines starting around $8–$12 per bottle in bigger supermarkets.
Mid‑range wines: Expect popular international wines in the $12–$20 range.
Premium or imported wines: More expensive bottles from Europe, the U.S., or South America can range from $20–$40+ depending on brand and region.
Wine selection and prices can vary widely between stores. Large supermarkets like Riba Smith and Rey typically have the largest wine sections, including a better variety of international brands.
Spirits and Liquor in Supermarkets
Spirits in Panama supermarkets tend to be pricier than beer or wine because they’re often imported:
Rum: Local rums like Abuelo or Havana Club are popular and often more affordable — around $15–$25 for a standard 750 ml bottle.
Vodka/Gin/Whiskey: Imported spirits usually cost around $20–$40+ depending on brand. Premium whiskies or specialty spirits will often be $40–$60+ or more.
Smaller bottles/miniatures: These are sometimes available and can be useful for tasting or light budgets, usually priced proportionally to the size.
Again, stores like Super 99, Rey, Riba Smith, and Xtra will carry these products, with larger supermarkets offering a wider variety.
How Prices Vary by Store
Panama has several major supermarket chains, and prices can differ a bit between them:
Super 99 – Often one of the more affordable options for alcohol.
Rey – Slightly higher prices but larger selection, especially for wine and craft beer.
Riba Smith – Known for quality imports and a wide variety of wines and spirits (prices can be higher).
Xtra – Discount supermarket option; often good for basic beer and budget wines.
Mini‑supers and local convenience stores – Usually slightly higher prices than big supermarkets for the same products.
Local mini‑supers are convenient if you’re in a smaller town or neighborhood, but they may not have as many imported brands or as many options.
Taxes and Pricing in Panama
Panama does apply taxes to alcohol, but compared to some countries, they aren’t exceptionally high. Most supermarkets display prices clearly, and the shelf price is generally what you pay at checkout. It’s also worth noting that some duty‑free shops at the airport offer different pricing — sometimes cheaper on bottles, especially for spirits and larger wine selections — although you might not find local craft options there.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Supermarkets are cheaper than bars/restaurants: If you’re budgeting, buying your drinks in a store and enjoying them in a public space (where legal) or at your accommodation is usually much less costly.
Compare stores: If you want a specific brand or vintage, it’s worth checking a few supermarkets, as prices aren’t always the same. Bigger stores usually have better selections.
Check sizes: Some bottles are 330–355 ml, others 500 ml or 750 ml — always compare the amount you’re getting as well as the price.
Local craft is growing: Panama has an emerging craft beer scene, and you can discover unique brews in bigger supermarkets or specialty beer shops.
Final Thoughts
Supermarket alcohol prices in Panama can be easy on the wallet compared to bar prices, and a wide range of options means you can find everything from local beers to international wines and spirits. For visitors, this makes selecting drinks during your stay straightforward and affordable with a little planning.
Whether you’re stocking up for a beach picnic, relaxing after a hike in Boquete, or just curious about everyday costs in Panama, knowing the typical supermarket prices for beer, wine, and spirits helps you budget your trip with confidence.🍷