UV Index in Airlie Beach, Australia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Airlie Beach, Australia, where the sun shines bright and exposure levels can be high. Awareness of daily UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. In this tropical climate, especially during midday hours when UV Index values reach up to 7, it's vital to take protective measures. By staying informed about UV risks, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Airlie Beach

At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 3 by 09:00, before climbing to a peak of 7 at 12:00. This midday intensity signifies a need for sun protection, especially during the height of the day when UV exposure is most potent. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and settling back to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and into the evening, the UV Index sharply drops to 0, marking a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of sunburn. Stay sun-safe!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	7	high	25 min
13:00	6	high	25 min
14:00	5	moderate	30 min
15:00	3	moderate	30 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 Airlie Beach

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest values recorded during the winter and early spring months. January, February, and March all display an extreme UV Index of 16 and 15, with a burn time of merely 10 minutes. Following these months, while April remains at 12 (extreme) and May dips to 9 (very high), risk continues into the summer with July at 8 (very high). Notably, August, September, and October return to extreme levels, peaking again at 14 in October and exceeding 10 minutes of burn time. Given this data, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take appropriate precautions during high-risk months—particularly from January to April and August to October—by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure to protect against harmful UV rays.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Airlie Beach, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Airlie Beach. 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 Airlie Beach, 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 Airlie Beach UV Index with Other Australia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Airlie Beach 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.

Airlie Beach'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
Brisbane UVI	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	9	12	14	15
Airlie Beach	16	15	15	12	9	7	8	11	12	14	15	16