FRANCIS BAY BEACH Claimed

Francis Bay is where things slow down and the natural wildlife become the entertainers in this bird watching sanctuary.  The beach at Francis Bay usually has plenty of room to spread out and get away from the crowds although some days it can be busier than you would expect. The sea birds love flying around Francis as there is little to no wave action.  Remember to bring your binoculars as you can stroll through the Lower Francis Bay Trail within the National Park that runs along the beach as you enjoy looking and listening to the birds and natural wildlife that call Francis Bay home.   Read all about the history of Francis Bay where the last sugar factory was constructed on Saint John.  Some parts of the beach are rocky.

Bring some food and use the grills for a lunch or dinner on the beach.   Visitors love to watch the beautiful sunsets that can only be witnessed from Francis Bay when the sun has moved around the island just enough during the summer months.  Please do not disturb the tree plantings on the beach. Francis Bay Beach is the last beach along the north shore of Saint John within the Virgin Islands National Park.  As you approach Francis Bay’s beach access road, you will find well-persevered sugar factory ruins along with parking near the beach.

Beach access is approximately 100 ft. from the parking area which includes 12-15 parking spaces at the beach front.  Overflow parking is along only one side of the access road (on your left as you approach the beach) with some areas clearly marked as unacceptable parking spots (which, if chosen, would likely cause difficulties for others trying to use the road).  Within the parking area is located a latrine style toilet house (no running water), and trash bins at the entrance to the beach.  If there is no road side parking, there are a few spots at the ruins that could be used.  If you cannot find legitimate parking, please consider traveling to a different beach or patiently wait for others to leave. Unauthorized parking at Francis Bay can create struggles for the rest of the beach goers.

Please remember, there is no lifeguard on duty.

FOR YOUR SAFETY:

• No glass bottles on the beach
• Do not leave your valuables unattended
• Stand only in sand. Do not stand on or touch coral or rocks
• Beware of fire coral and urchins
• No surfing or skim boarding in designated swim areas
• Body surfing is not advised
• Nudity is prohibited
• Do not snorkel alone
• Always wear reef-safe sunscreen

TO HELP PROTECT PARK RESOURCES:

• Do not feed fish or wildlife
• Campfires are prohibited
• No pets allowed