We've got the inland sea that Dubai doesn't! Score Doha 1 Dubai 0. :) Jokes apart, there aren't many public beaches but I could be wrong about that (sorry, not a beach person). Most hotels have a beach area that you can access for a fee.

Accommodation is a mix of villas and apartments. I am sure you will find a place suitable for the wife and kids. Just make sure your housing allowance is generous enough to cover the ridiculous rentals here. Doha is slightly more expensive than Dubai.