UV Index in Byron Bay, Australia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In sunny Byron Bay, Australia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for everyone who enjoys its beautiful beaches and vibrant outdoor lifestyle. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting your skin's long-term health. Given Byron Bay's Cfa climate, with its clear skies and intense midday sun, the UV Index readings can peak at 6 around noon, signaling a high risk of harm for unprotected skin. Stay informed and prioritize sun safety during your time in this stunning coastal paradise!

Hourly UV Index in Byron Bay

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a mild 1 by 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches 3, signaling a gentle warmth in the air. The day peaks around 11:00 and 12:00, where the index soars to a high of 6, advising outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions against harmful rays. After a vibrant midday, the UV intensity starts to taper off, dropping to 3 by 14:00, then gradually declining to 1 by 16:00. As the evening arrives, the UV Index dips to 0 after 18:00, marking a safe return for all as daylight fades. Remember, while enjoying those sunlit hours, protect your skin and stay hydrated!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	6	high	25 min
13:00	5	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 min
16:00	1	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Byron Bay

The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest risk months being January, February, March, October, November, and December, all falling into the extreme exposure category with a UV Index of 15 or 13 and a burn time of only 10 minutes. As the seasons shift, April and September present a very high risk, with UV Indexes of 10 and 9, respectively, and burn times decreasing to 15 minutes. The summer months, particularly May, June, and July, see a decline in intensity, transitioning to high and moderate levels, allowing longer safe exposure times of 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to mitigate the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Byron Bay, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Byron Bay. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Byron Bay, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Byron Bay UV Index with Other Australia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Byron Bay compares to other major locations across Australia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Byron Bay's solar exposure compared to other cities in Australia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Melbourne UVI	14	12	11	7	4	3	3	5	7	9	12	14
Adelaide UVI	14	13	12	8	5	3	4	5	7	10	12	15
Sydney UVI	14	13	11	8	5	3	4	6	8	10	12	14
Perth UVI	14	14	11	9	6	4	4	6	8	11	13	14
Byron Bay	15	15	13	10	7	4	5	7	9	11	13	15
Brisbane UVI	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	9	12	14	15