We were looking for a quick and painless getaway. We went to the Florida panhandle, near Destin, Fl:


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This is one of the closest destinations to reach from Atlanta, but still a 5+ hour drive. We avoided the peak season (it justed ended, and is determined by school schedule of the states Florida, Alabama, Luisiana and Georgia (I think)). I booked through VRBO since these days we enjoy a bit extra of room and a full kitchen when going with the kids. Our area (near the crab trap) was nice since there were no highrises. We got the second floor of a villa between a lake and a beach. We truly enjoyed the view every morning anew -- great to have your coffee watching the waves roll in. Kids loved the beach (Hannah) and the pool (Benni). Mid-August was still hot and humid. Similar to Peachtree City people are using golf cars and work out (run or bike) a lot. In terms of food we also liked the famed McGuire irish pub.

Pictures are to be found here.