u/CatsAboveAllElse

I searched but the posts are quite dated, are there any decent white sand, swimmable beaches a closer drive than gulf shores/orange beach from Memphis? Want nice, not too crowded but also doesn’t have to be super recluse either. Would prefer to stay directly on beach in a cute cottage OR on the opposite end of the spectrum a condo with amenities. Going with 2 toddlers so if anything worth visiting besides beach in town helps too (like water park or something).

But mainly looking for recs within the shortest distance from here. Have stayed at GS/OB many years ago, kinda want something diff, haven’t been to Destin in ages but ppl always say it’s too touristy, rosemary was heavenly but too far for this time..