What is the best place to stay in Thailand?

I'm thinking about going to Thailand for schoolies. I'll be going with like 12 girls and i was wondering where is a nice beach that is close to Patong? I stayed at Patong earlier this year and though personally i loved it i know my friends would find the beach disgusting. I've heard that Kata is nice but is it expensive and is there much to do there? Also would you recommend Bangkok for a couple of days if you have been there? Thanks