Francis Bay

Francis Bay is a quarter-mile beach on St. John's North Shore in Virgin Islands National Park and one of the park's quieter spots. Its calm water, which runs from the west end of the beach to Little Maho Beach, suits beginners, and sea turtles and pelicans are often seen. Along the northwest shore toward Mary Point, snorkelers find sea fans, tube sponges and anemones in about 10 feet of water, though a north swell can cloud the bay. Behind the beach, a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk leads to a salt pond used for bird watching, and a trail climbs to the ruins of an estate great house and the Francis sugar factory. Facilities are basic: parking, picnic tables and toilets. There is no fee, and the park lists no lifeguard. Commercial boats may not land tour groups on this beach, and pets and glass are not allowed.