I would love to find a fun (yet not overly expensive) beach town in the Costa Brava or the south of France (near the Spanish border). Any suggestions? Kids need an ocean and some sand and a pool at the hotel/resort and they will have a blast and dad can relax on the beach!
Lloret de Mar should meet all your requirements.
It's got a good beach, the hotels are typical Spanish hotels, which means basic, but clean and friendly. They all have pools and kids activities are usually on offer and well organised. Prices are affordable, the sun is hot and the local food is good. International cuisine is available and so are burgers and fries.