born in spain in 1506, and at the service of don joão iii king of portugal, francisco xavier was one of the most important missionaries in the history of the jesuit order, and was subsequently sainted in 1619.  honored at the time by the jesuits in the area, são francisco xavier is regarded worldwide as an example of a modern missionary.  

while the waters of são francisco beach are not always suitable for swimming, the calm waves facing this harbor are among the best in the region for sailing and kayaking.