Family beach trip other than Destin area?

One of the nicest places that I've stayed at over that was was the Portofino Beach Resort. It's on the east end of Pensacoula Beach and sits next to some state or national seashore. There is no other developments to the east side and low density stuff to the west, so the beaches weren't crowded. Nice water toys and such for the kids.

Another option is the Destin West Resort. It's on the east side of Ft. Walton. The bay side has a very nice pool and lazy river with hot tubs. There is a foot bridge across to the beach side. Next door is a Ramada that has a very nice pool with a swim up bar and waterfall behind it. Last time we were there, you were allowed to use that pool as well.

We just got back from Marco Island. It was awesome

St Simons island

If you need a nice pool, you really are going to be stuck to the more touristy areas.

People piss and moan about this, but prices are pretty well reflected accurately as far as how nice a place is, their demand, and location to attractions. So you are simply going to pay more for somewhere like 30A over Navarre Beach or Pensacola Beach.

I'd take a look at Pensacola Beach for something different since you want a nice pool.

PCB went through a couple years of nice growth and its better then it was 20 years ago, but driving the strip is still very rough in places.

ETA: if you are talking about going to the Atlantic coast or central florida, that's a different story but is gonna add 4-6+ hours to your drive too.

I don’t know that there are any pools to speak of but you could look into Mexico Beach or St. George Island.