UV Index in Santa Cruz, Costa Rica

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Cruz, Costa Rica, a beautiful coastal town known for its sunny climate. With UV levels peaking at 14 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. As a region in the tropical climate zone, Santa Cruz experiences intense sun exposure, increasing the risk of skin damage if precautions aren’t taken. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a clear pattern of intensity peaking around midday. Starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index rises steadily, reaching a notable 11 by 10:00 AM. The highest reading, 14, occurs at 12:00 PM, indicating a significant risk for sun exposure. The intensity begins to decline post-lunch, dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, and continues to decrease, falling to 5 at 3:00 PM. By evening, the UV Index plummets to 1 at 5:00 PM and settles at 0 by 6:00 PM. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV levels are at their peak.

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	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	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 Santa Cruz

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Costa Rica

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz'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
Santa Cruz	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