I currently live in Japan, and as a result, I've been to many southeast Asian countries, but it's tough to see a lot in a month. Plus it would be expensive to fly all over the place.
Some places to think about -
China - Seeing the Great Wall of China was unbelievable, and Tiananmen Square/Forbidden City were also cool. Make sure you go to Xian to see the Terra Cotta Warriors if you go. China's a cool mix of ultra-modern and dusty-old. But no beaches... at least in Beijing.
Malaysia - they're really trying to turn themselves into a major tourist destination, and you can see it all - Penang beaches, urban life of Kuala Lumpur and the rainforests - in Malaysia. Fairly cheap too.
Australia - I did a 3 month backpacking trip, from Sydney up to Cairns, into Alice Springs (to see Ayers Rock), down to Melbourne and back to Sydney. From what you first posted, it sounds like Australia is what you need. Great beaches on the east coast, lots of fun activities (both on land and in the ocean) and it's super easy to travel cheaply - Australia has an AMAZING set-up with regards to buses and hostels. I would say that Australia is what you need - tons of R&R, a chance to meet loads of people, and lots of beer and beaches.
New Zealand - Very similar to Australia, but on a much smaller scale. Some amazing nature - with the Rockies in our backyard, I was still impressed with New Zealand.
There's tons to see and do in this wonderful world of ours!! Have fun!!
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