UV Index in San Diego, Costa Rica

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Diego, Costa Rica, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun reaching its peak intensity during the day, being aware of UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Nestled in a tropical climate, San Diego typically experiences high UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the UV Index can soar to dangerous levels of 14. By monitoring these levels, residents and visitors alike can make informed choices about sun safety and enjoy the beautiful outdoors without the worry of overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in San Diego

At dawn, the UV Index begins at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a peak of 14 by 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This midday intensity signals a crucial time for sun safety, as the index emphasizes the need for protection against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels decrease, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM and falling further to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, the index gracefully settles at 0, marking the end of a sun-soaked day. Stay mindful of these UV changes to enjoy the sun safely!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:005moderate30 min
09:009very high15 min
10:0012extreme10 min
11:0014extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Diego

Throughout the year, UV radiation levels remain notably high, with an extreme UV Index ranging from 11 to 16. The months of January to April exhibit the highest UV exposure, peaking in April at an index of 16. This trend remains consistent until October, when a slight decrease occurs, yet October still holds a significant index of 15. November and December show a slight reduction in UV levels, but caution is still advised as the exposure remains extreme. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from January to October, during which time burn time is limited to just 10 minutes. Protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, especially during these high-risk months to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Diego, Costa Rica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Diego. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121415161414141414151211
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for San Diego, 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 San Diego UV Index with Other Costa Rica Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Diego 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.
San Diego's solar exposure compared to other cities in Costa Rica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Limon UVI121314151413131313141110
Liberia UVI111314141414141313131110
Alajuela UVI121315151414141313141210
San Diego121415161414141414151211
San Jose UVI121415161414141414151211
Paraiso UVI131416161515151414151211