southern vs eastern ports

[sunquest76]

I'm trying to decide between an itinerary with La Romana, Curacao and Aruba vs. San Juan, St Maarten St Thomas...

 

We want EASY cheap port options. For example, in Barbados we walked to the beach and Mount Gay rum factory. I will be travellig with a 2 and 5 year old (and hubby).

 

All else being equal, would you have a preference between Southern (#1) or Eastern (#2)?

[Showtune]

I don't have any experience with the first 3 ports you list (La Romana, Curacao and Aruba), but the later 3 (San Juan, St Maarten St Thomas) are all very easy with kids. There's lots of stuff right at the port that can be enjoyed as a family.

[cb at sea]

Get a guidebook on your potential ports.....beaches are quite easy to do on your own. But, a guidebook will give you so much more info...and you can determine what things you can easily do on your own and HOW to do them! Libraries have guidebooks, or you can buy them at any bookstore. It will be the best investment into your vacation that you'll make.