I'm no expert with cameras. My opinion is the more expensive, the more fancy functions you'll never figure out how to use.
I think most point & shoot cameras have a close-up macro function. I use Sony since I can remove the memory stick and plug it into my laptop. I usually use a Sony Cyber-Shot. Model: DSC-W90 which I'm sure is discontinued by now.
I don't think I have any friends who are disappointed with their Canon PowerShots either.
You should have plenty of decent cameras to choose from in the <$300 price range. I'll leave the specific model recommendations to the experts.