I would like to know what beaches are the best for a nice getaway - we like peaceful towns with some businesses so we can at least grab a sandwich or something.

Maybe some craft shops, or the like. We are not the nightclub scene sort of folks.

We have a dog too, so we would like to be able to take her along for some beach walking.

Sandbridge Beach (below VA Beach)is nice--family beach. They have a number of places that rent and allow dogs. They have beach laws that only allow dog walking in the morning and late afternoon and evening. We have gone for the past few years specifically because they are more dog-friendly than many places (and my daughter doesn't go anywhere without her "babies"). Siebert Realty and Sandbridge Realty are the primary agents.

Outer Banks in NC, Assateague, Chincoteague on the DelMarVa peninsula.

This is just what we are looking for also..any other suggestions? We want a beach get-away right after Labor Day. Coming from Michigan. Thanks

If you have a dog, you might want to head to the OBX. Duck is a good spot for pets as you can let them run free on the beach year round (as long as they keep close and behave, that is).

http://www.outerbanksbeachguide.com/newsinfo/randr.htm