ATTAYA gets ready to find its groove as an all-embracing family destination with the launch of the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. A far cry from the cookie-cutter cinderblock city stereotype, this top Thailand beach resort is more of an experience than a hotel. For starters, the sweeping twin wings of this five-star – linked by three walkways – facing a 230m beach, represent Thailand’s first themed hotel. Welcome to the ‘Lost World’. This elaborate getaway aims to be one of the best Thailand family resorts and will certainly feature among the best Pattaya beach hotels, not least because of its unique architectural stamp.

The Lost World theme percolates down to the large water park including swimming pools, a lazy river, water slides for the kids, and atmospheric sculpted waterfalls. Don’t miss out on the smorgasbord of sports including volleyball, rock climbing, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and fishing – more activities than you can shake a stick at. This is a place for unadulterated fun.

A painstakingly child-friendly resort, there are services and facilities to cater for all ages. Take advantage of the kids' club and daily activity programme for children aged three to nine. Teen guests have a separate games and meeting area where tennis, volleyball, table tennis, snooker, and rock climbing ensure hours of healthy distraction. This leaves you free for a spot of hedonistic escape at the SPA Cenvaree oceanfront village, or to enjoy culinary treats at one of the eight restaurants and bars (including Japanese and Italian), before a nightcap and karaoke bop at the chic Zulu bar.

All the 554 rooms and suites command unobstructed ocean views. Expect contemporary Thai décor with satellite TV, Wi-Fi, mini-bar, and hairdryer for untangling those sun-drenched locks. The private terraces and balconies serve up open vistas. For the more discerning there’s the Club at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya with a private lounge and complimentary Internet. A quick 55-minute drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, this is a top Pattaya conference hotel with ample meetings options.