UV Index in Golfito, Costa Rica

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Golfito, Costa Rica, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful UV radiation. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn, reducing the risk of skin cancer, and maintaining overall skin health. Given Golfito's tropical climate and high levels of sun exposure, particularly during midday hours when UV Index levels can soar to 15, it's essential to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect yourself. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking up the sun, being mindful of the UV index can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful Costa Rican outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Golfito

The UV Index chart throughout the day reveals a striking rise and fall in ultraviolet radiation levels. At 7:00 AM, the index starts at a tame 2, but by 9:00 AM, it escalates to a robust 9, peaking at a dramatic 15 by 11:00 AM—the sun is at its fiercest! As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually decreases, gliding down to 8 at 2:00 PM before dropping to a gentle 4 by 3:00 PM. By 5:00 PM, it plunges to a mere 1, and as evening approaches, the UV levels settle at 0 by 6:00 PM. This data underlines the importance of sun protection during peak hours!

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	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	4	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 Golfito

Throughout the year, the UV Index shows extreme levels of solar radiation from January to March and into April and May, peaking at 15 before slightly decreasing during the summer months. High-risk months include March through May, where the UV Index consistently reaches 14-15, requiring heightened awareness for sun exposure. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. As we transition into June through October, while the UV Index remains high, it slightly tapers off, with a lower risk noted in December with an Index of 10, suggesting increased attention to sun safety remains essential throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Golfito, Costa Rica

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Golfito 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.

Golfito'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
Golfito	12	13	14	15	15	13	13	13	14	13	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