How close to the action will a Canon macro lens get me? What is the best macro lens?

Looking for a Christmas pressie. Up to $2000 spend. Just not sure if I need it or not. Where I am at the moment I can see me going lots of still life / macro type stuff so it seems a logical choice. Do I need a ring flash as well or will studio lights / EX580II be good enough.

Feel free to post opinions and images.