UV Index in San Antonio, Costa Rica

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In San Antonio, Costa Rica, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting yourself from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given San Antonio's tropical climate, where strong sunlight prevails, being aware of the UV Index can empower you to enjoy the outdoors safely. Peak UV levels often reach a high of 14 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, highlighting the importance of sun protection to mitigate risks associated with overexposure. Stay sun-smart and protect your skin for a healthier, happier life under the Costa Rican sun!

Hourly UV Index in San Antonio

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.
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	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	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 San Antonio

Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects consistently high levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly from January to October where the index remains in the extreme category, peaking at 15 in both March and April. This means that residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, as the burn time for unprotected skin is only 10 minutes across most of this period. As the year progresses, November and December experience slightly lower UV levels, but caution is still advised, especially as November has a UV Index of 12 (extreme) and burn time of 10 minutes, while December dips to 10 (very high) with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. It is essential for everyone to take protective measures, including wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, regardless of the season, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Antonio, Costa Rica

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Antonio 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 Antonio'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
San Antonio	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	13	13	14	12	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