Posted by Panhandle Watersports on Wednesday, August 10, 2016
About the Owner
Growing up in Panama City, John Kingston developed a love for the Gulf of Mexico at an early age. Residing in the Cove, John took every opportunity available to cross the Hathaway Bridge and head for the beach to surf with friends. While kids his age were mowing lawns for spending money, John was helping beach vendors set up chairs and push out jet skis for extra cash. His hard work and eagerness to learn quickly caught the attention of Ed Hickey, who is pretty much the Godfather of beach service in the PCB area. John Worked summers for Mr. Hickey while finishing his education at the University of West Florida. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, John took a management position with CPI to oversee all contractual and employment responsibilities. With over 20 years of beach service experience under his belt, Mr. Kingston Partnered with CPI to start his own business. John founded Panhandle Watersports in the spring of 2014, a company providing jet skis and paddle boards for many CPI contracted locations.
Jet Ski Rentals
Panhandle Watersports is now the largest Jet Ski rental company on the beach with over 50 skis at 10 locations. PWS provides the latest model Yamaha VX series jet skis each season, and are capable of fitting up to three passengers. Boating licenses can be issued at all locations for those in need, and are good for a year from the date issued. Jet Skis can be rented by the half hour or the full hour, and each location has a large riding area to safely operate the vehicles.
Dolphin Tours
Dolphin tours are one of the most popular tourist attractions and pastimes in Panama City Beach. A PWS tour guide takes clients on a two hour tour from their location to Shell Island and the surrounding area. Dolphins, rays, sea turtles, and even manatee can be sited on the excursions, and a jet ski offers the closest experience to interact with the animals in their natural habitat. PWS tour guides are very familiar with the area and know many good spots for animal sightings, snorkeling, and popular sites along the island. Tours are booked a day in advance and leave from any of their 10 locations.
Paddle board rentals
Paddle-boarding is the perfect way to enjoy the Gulf of Mexico in flat, glassy conditions where visibility is high. Similar to a surf board but larger, the added surface area helps inexperienced riders master balancing while standing up. Boards can be rented hourly or daily, and employees can help instruct you on the proper stance and techniques to get you paddling out in no time.
Rental Locations
- The Summit Condominiums (8743 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408)
- Pineapple Willy’s Restaurant (9875 S Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408)
- Harpoon Harry’s (12627 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407)
- Edgewater Beach Resort (11212 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 324070)
- Majestic Beach Resort (10901 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407)
- Boardwalk Beach Resort (9450 South Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408)
- Splash Resort (17698 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413)
- Landmark Condominiums (2100 W Beach Dr, Panama City, FL 32401)
- Ocean Towers Beach Club (11211 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407)
- Beach Towers By The Sea (12001 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407)
Rentals start March 1st every season and run through October 31st. All locations are open 7 days a week weather permitting.
Contact info
Instagram @panhandlewatersportspcb
For Reservations over the phone 850-235-0009
About the Author
John Day
Student - Spring 2018
