Francis Bay: A Tranquil Wildlife Sanctuary
Escape to the serene shores of Francis Bay in St. John, where calm waters, rich history, and abundant wildlife create an unforgettable Caribbean experience.
Francis Bay, located on the north shore of St. John, is a serene beach known for its calm waters, birdwatching opportunities, and snorkeling. With a backdrop of lush greenery and historical ruins, it offers a peaceful escape with activities for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Francis Bay
- St John, VI
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the Francis Bay Trail, especially during the early morning hours.
- Snorkel along the rocky edges of the bay for the best chances of seeing sea turtles and colorful fish.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, utilizing the available picnic tables and barbecue grills.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem while swimming and snorkeling.
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season, as the lot can fill up quickly.
Getting There
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Driving
From Cruz Bay, take Route 20 (North Shore Road) east. Continue past Maho Bay, where the road veers inland. At the intersection with the Leinster Bay Road, turn left. Continue to the end of the road where you can park near the beach. Parking is free, but limited, especially during peak hours. Consider arriving early or carpooling.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Cruz Bay to Francis Bay. A taxi to Francis Bay will cost approximately $20-$30, but confirm the rate with the driver before departing, as prices can vary. Some taxis may not be willing to drive all the way to Francis Bay, so it's best to confirm availability in advance. Taxis are readily available at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay.
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Walking
From Maho Bay, it is possible to walk to Francis Bay along the beach. The walk is approximately half a mile and involves traversing a sandy shoreline. This option is free and offers scenic views, but is not recommended for those with mobility issues or those carrying heavy gear. Be mindful of the sun and heat, and bring plenty of water.
Discover more about Francis Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Steele Point Estate
4.4 km
Discover the ultimate group getaway at Steele Point Estate, a luxurious retreat in the British Virgin Islands with breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
4.8 km
Explore the enchanting Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins and immerse yourself in the historical charm and natural beauty of St. John in the US Virgin Islands.
Omar's Fusion
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Omar's Fusion, a top restaurant in Soper's Hole, Tortola, known for its fresh seafood and live music.
West End Ferry Terminal
5.2 km
Connect to paradise from Tortola's West End: your gateway to the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
VOYAGE Charters
5.2 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Arawak West End
5.3 km
Discover unique island-inspired fashion at Arawak West End, where vibrant Caribbean culture meets stylish apparel and accessories for the perfect island vibe.
Pusser's Landing
5.3 km
Discover Pusser's Landing, a vibrant pub at Soper's Hole Marina, serving Caribbean cuisine and refreshing drinks with stunning waterfront views.
Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina, where stunning views, delicious food, and unique shopping await in the British Virgin Islands.
DAY TRIPS BVI
5.3 km
Experience the best of the British Virgin Islands with unforgettable boat tours from DAY TRIPS BVI, exploring stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Omar's Coffee House
5.3 km
Discover Omar's Coffee House in Soper's Hole Marina for a delightful breakfast and brunch experience paired with stunning views in the British Virgin Islands.
Smuggler's Cove
5.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Smuggler's Cove, a hidden beach paradise in the British Virgin Islands, ideal for relaxation and marine exploration.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
6.0 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A luxurious private island escape in the US Virgin Islands, offering pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and upscale amenities.
Tortola
6.0 km
Explore the stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture of Tortola, the jewel of the British Virgin Islands, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
villa del mar tortola
6.0 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Villa del Mar Tortola, your perfect Caribbean retreat in the British Virgin Islands.
Denzil Clyne Jeep & Car Rental - Tortola BVI
6.3 km
Explore Tortola's beauty with reliable jeep and car rentals. Family-owned, West End location, and excellent customer service.
Unmissable attractions to see
Francis Bay Beach
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Francis Bay Beach in St. John, US Virgin Islands – a tropical paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Little Maho Bay
0.5 km
Explore Little Maho Bay: A pristine coastal haven in St. John, US Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation, snorkeling, and breathtaking sunsets.
Francis Bay Trail
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Francis Bay Trail in St. John, US Virgin Islands, where lush landscapes and scenic views await every hiker.
Maho Bay Beach
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Maho Bay Beach in St. John, US Virgin Islands, with its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
Maho Bay
1.0 km
Discover Maho Bay, a breathtaking beach pavilion in St. John, US Virgin Islands, where adventure meets tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty.
Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
1.0 km
Discover Whistling Cay in the Virgin Islands, an untouched paradise with crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
America Hill Great House Ruins
1.4 km
Discover St. John's history at America Hill Great House Ruins, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Cinnamon Bay Beach
1.4 km
Discover the stunning beauty and adventure at Cinnamon Bay Beach, a tropical paradise on St. John in the US Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground
1.7 km
Experience the beauty of Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground, a tropical haven for relaxation and adventure in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
1.8 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar plantation era.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
1.9 km
Hike through history and nature on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, exploring sugar plantation ruins and enjoying panoramic Caribbean views.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
1.9 km
Experience the captivating history and stunning views at Annaberg Sugar Plantation in St. John, US Virgin Islands - a must-visit historical landmark.
Great Thatch Island
2.4 km
Discover Great Thatch Island: Unspoiled beauty, tranquil beaches, and historical ruins await in this British Virgin Islands paradise.
Virgin Islands National Park
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Virgin Islands National Park, where lush landscapes and stunning beaches come together in perfect harmony.
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
2.5 km
Discover an underwater paradise at Trunk Cay, St. John: Snorkeling trails, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life await!
Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
4.0 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Ekaete Pink Corner in Coral Bay - a delightful restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning views.
Lime Out VI
4.4 km
Discover unforgettable flavors at Lime Out VI, a premier restaurant in Coral Bay offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Patricias Beach Bar
5.8 km
Discover culinary delights at Patricias Beach Bar - a tropical grill haven in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
1748 Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
7.3 km
Experience tropical flavors and breathtaking views at Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill in Long Bay - a culinary gem in the British Virgin Islands.
Nardie's Beach Bar
7.8 km
Experience tropical bliss at Nardie's Beach Bar in Tortola - where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views.
La Flaca
7.8 km
Discover La Flaca: A charming fast food gem in Freshwater Pond serving delicious local flavors and international favorites amidst stunning island scenery.
Sidney's Peace & Love
8.3 km
Discover Sidney's Peace & Love: A charming family-run restaurant in the British Virgin Islands offering fresh local cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Tramonti Restaurant
8.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Tramonti Restaurant in the British Virgin Islands—where flavor meets paradise.
Abes By The Sea Restaurant & Bar
8.5 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean flavors with stunning ocean views at Abes By The Sea on Jost Van Dyke.
Alice's Restaurant
8.5 km
Discover Alice's Restaurant: A vibrant dining experience in Jost Van Dyke offering Caribbean flavors and breathtaking views.
A&B Bar and Restaurant
8.8 km
Experience the best of Caribbean cuisine at A&B Bar and Restaurant in Belle Vue - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
8.8 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Claude's Big Stop Restaurant & Bar in Belle Vue - a true gem for food enthusiasts visiting the British Virgin Islands.
One Love Bar and Grill
8.8 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at One Love Bar and Grill in Belle Vue - your perfect island getaway for relaxation and delicious cuisine.
Ocean Seven Too
8.8 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Ocean Seven Too in White Bay, British Virgin Islands - where every meal is a feast for your senses.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Riteway Harbour Market
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and fresh produce at Riteway Harbour Market in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
BVI Island Surf and Sail
5.3 km
Experience the thrill of water sports at BVI Island Surf and Sail in the breathtaking British Virgin Islands, where adventure meets paradise.
Harbor Market
5.3 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
VI National Park Store
6.1 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Pink House Villas
8.5 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Pink House Villas, your perfect Caribbean getaway in the British Virgin Islands.
Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows
8.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning beach views at Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows in the British Virgin Islands.
Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
8.7 km
Experience the taste of the Caribbean at Sugar & Spice Snack Bar in Belle Vue, offering a delightful grill menu with stunning coastal views.
BVI Adenture
8.8 km
Explore the best sporting goods in the British Virgin Islands at BVI Adventure, your one-stop shop for outdoor gear and equipment.
Foxy's Giftshop
8.8 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the British Virgin Islands at Foxy's Giftshop, where unique souvenirs and delicious Caribbean cuisine await.
Hendo's Hideout
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Hendo's Hideout in the beautiful British Virgin Islands, your ultimate tropical getaway.
Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean culture at Foxy's, the quintessential beachfront bar in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
Gertrude’s Beach Bar and Grill
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Gertrude’s Beach Bar and Grill, where stunning views meet delicious grilled delights.
Soggy Dollar Bar
8.8 km
Experience the essence of Caribbean paradise at Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke, where vibrant cocktails and stunning ocean views await.
Coco Loco
8.8 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Coco Loco, the ultimate beach bar in the British Virgin Islands offering stunning views and refreshing drinks.
JVD Grocery
8.8 km
Explore JVD Grocery in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke for an unforgettable shopping experience with local flavors and essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing ambiance of The Windmill Bar in Cruz Bay, a perfect stop for grill lovers and tropical drink enthusiasts alike.
West End
4.3 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of West End, a serene peninsula in the British Virgin Islands perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Admiral's Bar
5.4 km
Experience the lively spirit of Admiral's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, where exceptional drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
5.8 km
Discover the vibrant taste of the British Virgin Islands at Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill, where delicious food and stunning views await.
Coco Locos
8.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Coco Locos Beach Bar in White Bay, British Virgin Islands, where refreshing cocktails meet stunning ocean views.
