Mandalay Bay
Las Vegas

Rates: $$-$$$

Family-Friendly Features: Shark Reef aquarium, beach concerts

Family-friendly Features for Guests: 11-acre tropical lagoon with a beach and body surfing, two phone lines, 42" plasma tv

Other Features: casino, 12 restaurants           

Mandalay Bay’s top family feature (for guests only) is its 11-acre tropical lagoon. It’s surf and sand on the Strip here, complete with body surfing. Thanks to a recent $30 million expansion, this part of Mandalay Bay is better than ever. Along the water’s edge, you’ll find cabanas and lounges to hide from the desert sun. There’s even a beach bar and grill for a real resort feel. (Note to parents: there is a topless beach at Mandalay Bay called Moorea Beach Club; it is set aside and for guests age 21 and older only.) The pool also has has private cabanas that would be great for shading the family...but plan to spend more on them than you will on your room rental (seriously).

One of the hotel’s most unique features that's open to everyone is its Shark Reef. This public aquarium (slightly pricey...but what's not?) is great for families. You'll take a self-guided tour and have the opportunity not only to see plenty of sharks but lots of other marine creatures as well.

Rooms at Mandalay Bay are all generously sized, averaging about 500 square feet and each accommodating at least four guests. Each includes a master bath with stone floors and counters, a separate tub and shower, blow dryer, make-up mirror, his and hers lighted closets, two phone lines, 42-inch plasma television, and more.

Location: 3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Tel. 702/632-7777 or 877/632-7000, Fax 702/632-7919, www.mandalaybay.com.