Is there anything better than getting completely lost in a book while lounging on a towel on a beach? The Indian Ocean is perhaps best known - and deservedly so - as a stellar beach destination. The coastlines of the Seychelles, Mauritius, Maldives, Rodrigues, Madagascar and Reunion have something for every type of sand lover. Before you begin island-hopping through these archipelagos, you may want to make a list of the must-visit spots you intend to spread your towel on. Here’s our picks. Anse Georgette, Seychelles: If paradise is a place on Earth, then this is it. The magical strip of white sand can only be reached by crossing a jungle-like forest. Gigantic pink speckled granite rock formations drop into the pale blue sea (The ocean-floor is purely sand.) In the early hours, you can spot dolphins in the distance. At high-tide the waves get bigger and unfurl on the beach. Climbing up the granite rocks and lazing in the sun like a lizard is certainly a highlight. Trou d’Argent, Rodrigues: The small secluded creek is framed by rugged, steep cliffs. The natural barrier is what has kept Trou d’Argent preserved. The beach is studded with filao trees, which act as windbreakers. A good pair of hiking boots will make the trek down to the beach a little easier. Plus, there truly isn’t a better reward than a dip in the sea after working up a sweat. Be sure to bring your essentials (sunblock, a summer read and a sapo la paille, a local straw hat), as there are no shops on this beach. Blue Bay Beach, Mauritius: The south-east’s perpetual sunshine draws people to its beaches, which rest on a stretch of Mauritian seashore. A casual, walking town with badamier-lined streets and vacation homes, beach life in Blue Bay is part of the culture. Opposite the beach are vendors selling coconut water, pineapple dipped in tamarind sauce, and mango, and beach shacks selling steaming hot noodles. You’ll quickly discover that one of the best ways to spend the afternoon is with a picnic by the water, followed by a swim in the palest, bluest lagoon.