The best beach holiday or island retreat?

Try the gili islands in Indo. Was there for a couple of weeks. Has what you're after.

Thanks derekdon, I'll look into them... funny never heard of them before.

I was there! They are really nice! I wish I could go back.

Also a friend said the cook islands and fab!

Fly to Rio de Janeiro.....spend a few nights there for some hectic partying/good beach also (Ipanema better than Cococabana), then fly up to Recife and catch another flight to Fernando de Noronha (most amazing island ever) where 3 of Brazils top 5 beachs are!!

Yes, agreed on the above comment. Rio is an amazing party city but yet has the weather and the beach life to match....with lots of added treats (football matches - exciting due to fireworks and singing etc throughout the game/ Trips to the slums etc).....I have also been very lucky to have made a trip to Fernando de Noronho (expensive to get there and stay there, but woth it if you have the money), or maybe try Fliorianopolis instead if you are on a budget!