My current favorite is Emerald Isle, NC. Lots of native flora, yaupon trees, live oaks and such, the island seems hilly due to all the dunes, some covered with trees. Beachfront houses are actually atop the dunes in many areas. The prettiest and most desireable area is down by the point, but not right on it. The NC barrier islands do move, being glorified sandbars as they are. Enough shopping, restaurants and such to provide a minor distraction, but not crowded. If you want to go to “town” from there, it’s Morehead City.
Some beautiful houses available for rent there, many recent. Kid friendly and dog friendly, so family friendly. Not so much on hotels or condos, though. It’s a place to rent a nice oceanfront house and hang out there, grill out oceanside on your deck, walk to the fishing pier. Quiet, for the most part.