UV Index in Byron Bay, Australia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Byron Bay, Australia, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With its stunning beaches and sunny climate, Byron Bay sees varying UV levels that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if not monitored. The UV Index here peaks throughout midday, reaching a maximum of 5 around noon, highlighting the need for awareness during outdoor activities. By acknowledging these levels, you can take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely while embracing the beauty of this coastal paradise. Stay informed and protect your skin!

Hourly UV Index in Byron Bay

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, providing a safe environment for morning activities. The intensity gradually increases, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it climbs to 4, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The peak arrives at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where the index hits 5, signaling a need for sun protection. The afternoon sees a decline, with readings at 4 at 1:00 PM, tapering to 3 by 2:00 PM. As the day begins to wind down, the UV Index drops steadily back to 1 by 4:00 PM, and sinks to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of safeguarding against UV exposure, especially during the midday hours.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	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