It's been a few years since I was in Thailand but a couple of questions. Are you wanting to stay on the mainland. Any place that has "Koh" in it's name is an island. You might check into Koh Sumui. Small island with great beaches. Phukhet is ok.
http://www.samuitourism.com/
[This message has been edited by MoreMilesPlease (edited 07-17-2001).]