Vacation experts (Destin or San Destin?)

Didn't feel like starting a thread, and this one seemed as good as any for a jumping off point...so weeks of sub zero temps and literally 35+" of snow has my wife itching for a getaway. Won't be doing our annual Bahamas trip, since leaving the country is slightly dicey. I have spent a lot of time in my life in FLA, but never on the panhandle/gulf shores area and it seems like a nice spot.

I started looking in Gulf Shores, and then a little in Orange Beach...now have been looking in Destin and moving search into Miramar Beach. It is going to be me, my wife and 5 yr old daughter, along with my good buddy and his wife plus two young boys. Looking to rent a house for a week and getting right onto beach or real close (good views a must). 4 bedrooms with nice amenities and private pool/outdoor space, close enough to walk to nice restaurants and bars in evening--or at least a short Uber.

Which of these areas should I be zeroing in on my search?? Looking at last week of April.
Thanks!