Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Nicoya, Costa Rica, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health in this picturesque region. With its tropical climate, locals and visitors alike experience heightened risk from sun exposure, especially during midday hours when UV levels peak. Understanding and monitoring UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns, but also for lowering the long-term risk of skin damage. On a typical day, the UV Index can soar to 14 at noon—indicating extreme sun intensity—making it vital to take protective measures during outdoor activities. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely in this beautiful part of the world!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 2 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 5, preparing for a significant increase. The peak of the day arrives between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, reaching a sizzling 13 and then an intense 14—a reminder of the midday sun's power. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to slide, dropping to 12 at 1:00 PM and gently descending to 9 by 2:00 PM. By late afternoon, at 3:00 PM, it falls to 5, then tapers off further to 2 by 4:00 PM and sinks to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV Index dwindles to 0 after 6:00 PM, marking the end of another day under the sun. Stay protected during the peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal variations in ultraviolet radiation exposure, with the highest risk occurring from March through August, when the UV Index consistently reaches 14, categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. February sees a peak UV Index of 13, while September through November gradually taper to 11 and 10 respectively, though still in the extreme and very high categories. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. Even in the months of reduced intensity, such as December, vigilance is advised to protect against prolonged sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nicoya | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
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 UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 11 |