UV Index in Sabalito, Costa Rica

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Sabalito, Costa Rica, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With its tropical climate and a peak UV Index often reaching alarming levels—up to 14—understanding UV levels can be the difference between a day of fun in the sun and a painful sunburn. Protecting your skin not only helps prevent immediate discomfort but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health. From morning to afternoon, UV exposure in Sabalito can be intense, peaking between 11 AM and 1 PM. Stay informed and sun-safe as you explore this beautiful region!

Hourly UV Index in Sabalito

The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a striking pattern, peaking dramatically at 14 around 11:00 and 12:00. Starting from a modest 2 at 07:00, the intensity quickly escalates, reaching 8 by 09:00 and hitting the extreme level of 11 at 10:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, it maintains a high UV index of 14 until 13:00. Afterward, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 8 by 14:00. By the late afternoon, the numbers decline further, resting at 5 by 15:00 before falling to 0 by 18:00. For sun-seekers, it’s clear that the midday hours are critical for sun protection.

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	8	very high	15 min
10:00	11	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 Sabalito

Throughout the year, the UV Index in this region remains predominantly extreme, with values peaking between January and April. The highest UV Index of 15 is recorded in April, signaling that these months are critical for sun protection. Specifically, the months of February, March, April, and May are considered high-risk for excessive UV exposure, where unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. Even in the latter part of the year, while the index decreases slightly, it remains at high levels, particularly in June through October. Visitors and residents should take precautions by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during these high-risk months, to minimize the adverse effects of UV radiation. Always be mindful of the burn time, and consider scheduling outdoor activities outside peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sabalito, Costa Rica

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sabalito 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.

Sabalito'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
Alajuela UVI	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	13	13	14	12	10
Sabalito	12	13	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	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