Proximity to the airport is a big deal for families. Spend first week in pattaya to acclimatize rather than BKK.
families vacations are really the future of pattayas tourism product. So many amazing family hotels.
the crystal clear waters of the island also get the tropical island out of the way rather than going samui or Phuket.
the zoo and the Pygmy hippo is another thing for a day.
also all the beaches along the coast to the south.
Plethora of outdoor night markets are also a key feature.
I am a huge booster of pattaya for family vacation. we wake up at 6 am end usually in bed by 10 pm. Even heat of the day works to kids advantage as we do homework in the hotel room.
Daddy (sometimes mommy) might sneak out until 11 pm. 😉