UV Index in Oranjestad, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Oranjestad and the nearby islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region’s tropical climate often exposing residents and visitors to high UV levels, understanding this index is essential for safe outdoor activities. During peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 1 PM, you might encounter UV Index values soaring to 13, indicating extreme risk. By being informed about the UV levels, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful rays and enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle this beautiful area has to offer.

Hourly UV Index in Oranjestad

As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index reaches its peak intensity around 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 13—a clear signal for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The morning hours start gently, with a low of 1 at 07:00 AM, gradually escalating to 6 by 09:00 AM and hitting 9 at 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, the sun begins to assert itself with a 12. However, as the afternoon progresses, the UV intensity starts to wane, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM, and tapering off to a mere 2 by 5:00 PM. As daylight diminishes, the UV Index dwindles to 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a much-needed respite from the sun’s relentless rays. Always be vigilant and protect your skin during those peak 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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Oranjestad

As the seasons change, the UV Index exhibits notable fluctuations, with high-risk months typically from February to October, where values reach extreme levels of 11 to 14. In these months, the burn time is as brief as 10 minutes, necessitating increased caution. In January, November, and December, while the UV Index remains at a very high level of 9, individuals still face a burn time of 15 minutes, indicating a need for protection. To ensure safety, both visitors and residents should prioritize wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade regularly during these peak months, especially from midday to mid-afternoon when the sun's intensity is highest.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Oranjestad, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Oranjestad. 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 Oranjestad, 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 Oranjestad UV Index with Other Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Oranjestad compares to other major locations across Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Oranjestad's solar exposure compared to other cities in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Oranjestad	9	11	13	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	9	9
Upper Hell's Gate UVI	9	11	13	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	9	9
Dorp Tera Kora UVI	11	12	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11	10
Dorp Rincon UVI	11	12	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11	10
Dorp Antriol UVI	11	12	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11	10
Kralendijk UVI	11	12	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11	10