Welcome TJM.
This forum is loaded with lots of great info.
I also lurk around this site on a regular basis since my return from my first trip last Nov-Dec. I stayed at the Summer Breeze and truely enjoyed my stay (great value & good people). You can use the pool just down the street if you want (costs maybe 50 baht per day) or so, really don't remember.
There is also a great fitness facility very close as well, Billpay would know the name & spot.
Not sure about Phi Phi though. Did a day trip there and there wasn't really much there. But it may be worth checking out far a night at least.
I may try to return sometime in late August also. But I know for sure that I will be there over the Christmas & New Years holidays.
Enjoy your journey, look forward to hearing about the adventure.
C K