Hi, you don't need a licence to ride a bike there, although if that's the case, try to stick to the smaller roads and avoid the highway, you'll be surprised by the insights you get if you rent a bike (i think about 200 Bht per hr?)
Hotels wise, its peak season from Nov onwards and expect prices to be jacked up by almost 50%. Check out
www.sawadee.com, one of the largest hotel operators in Thailand and from there, a good selection of hotels.
Tours wise, you'll find no end to the tour operators along the streets of Patong (and other parts of Phuket). You can usually get up to 50% discount from the quoted rate during off peak season, but at peak, its usually a pretty standard price.
If you can, get a long tail boat (1800-2000 Bht?) to bring you out to Bamboo Island. For me, its the only place left that's relatively unspoilt and a beautiful place for a picnic lunch. (Note: There are no accommodations on this island) Pay the boatman half of the agreed price and the balance upon return. Even if he doesn't come back to pick u up, you can always ride on the other boats that stop by this island.
Food wise, is relatively cheap (50-60 Bht for a
Khao Pad / Friend Rice). Best fried rice and green curry i had in my life was at Phi Phi island, although the beaches there are severely overrated and its pretty much a hippies paradise with sex, drugs and touristy prices. But it's worth at least a check out if you're going with your better half.
Have fun!