UV Index in Paraiso, Costa Rica

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Paraiso, Costa Rica, where the climate offers a delightful mix of warmth and humidity. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but is vital for maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index readings soaring to 15 around midday, it's essential to recognize the heightened risks associated with sun exposure in this charming locale. Paraiso's unique climate can intensify these UV rays, making it imperative to stay informed and protected to fully enjoy the sun-soaked beauty of this vibrant destination.

Hourly UV Index in Paraiso

The UV Index fluctuates dramatically throughout the day, starting low at 2 at 7:00 AM and rapidly rising as the sun ascends. By 10:00 AM, it peaks at a striking 12, signaling an intense sun exposure risk. As the clock ticks to 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, the index remains alarmingly elevated at 15, urging caution for outdoor activities. Around 1:00 PM, it dips slightly to 13, but the intensity quickly wanes in the afternoon. By 2:00 PM, the index falls to 9 and continues its downtrend, dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM, and finally settling at 0 after 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during peak sun hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.

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	2	low	45 min
08:00	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	9	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	15	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	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 Paraiso

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extraordinarily high, with extreme exposure categories dominating from January to November. The months of March, April, and May mark the peak, with a UV Index reaching 16, indicating the highest risk for skin damage due to sun exposure. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, especially from January to May, where the risk of sunburn occurs within just 10 minutes of exposure. As a precaution, it’s essential to use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during midday hours. Even as we transition into the cooler months, attention to UV safety remains crucial, as November and December still present a notable risk with indices of 12 and 11, respectively. Staying informed and protected is key to enjoying outdoor activities safely year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Paraiso, Costa Rica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Paraiso. 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 Paraiso, 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 Paraiso UV Index with Other Costa Rica Cities

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

Paraiso's solar exposure compared to other cities in Costa Rica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Limon UVI	12	13	14	15	14	13	13	13	13	14	11	10
Liberia UVI	11	13	14	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	11	10
Alajuela UVI	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	13	13	14	12	10
San Jose UVI	12	14	15	16	14	14	14	14	14	15	12	11
Paraiso	13	14	16	16	15	15	15	14	14	15	12	11