If you're going there just for the beaches...... forget about all the touristy places..... their beaches have been spoiled and polluted by the masses.
I recommend going to Hua Hin..... and because the Thai Royal family second home is there and apparently the Royal family frequent the beach.... the authorities are very strict in patrolling and enforcing the rules on their beaches.
Another beach that is pure and untouched is Jomtien beach..... not that part which is nearer to Pattaya but the other stretch that is nearer to Satthahip. Unfortunately as that stretch of beach forms part of the Satthahip Naval Training Centre...... it is only opened to the public at certain times. You have to check their timetable to find out the operating times as it is dependant on the Navy's timetable. Also you need to bring along your passport or identification with photo for security check / bag screening as you need to pass the Naval checkpoint to get to the beach.
