If you’re craving sandy toes and salt-air breezes, but you’d rather avoid the bustling resorts and overpriced crowds, these hidden coastal gems in the Southeast are tailor-made for families who want beach time and downtime. As a parent juggling travel, kid-friendly fun and the golden retriever + goldendoodle duo, I’ve been on the hunt for beach escapes that feel relaxed, memorable and just far enough from home to feel like adventure. From small-town charm to nature-rich shorelines, here are three family-friendly beach towns that bring the best of both worlds—easy drive or short flight from Atlanta, and plenty of room for kids (and dogs) to roam. 1. St. George Island,…