Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly and the climate invites outdoor activities year-round. With UV levels peaking at a hazardous 12 during the midday hours, being aware of these values is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. Implementing protective measures during high UV times can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage. As a popular beach destination known for its tropical climate, Nuevo Vallarta presents unique UV exposure risks that warrant careful monitoring to ensure the well-being of both residents and visitors alike.
As the sun rose at 07:00, the UV Index was a serene 0, offering a safe start to the day. However, as time progressed, the index steadily climbed. By 08:00, it nudged up to 1, followed by a gradual increase reaching 2 at 09:00. The real intensity kicked in by 11:00, where the index hit 6, peaking at a formidable 12 from 13:00 to 15:00—the hours when sun protection became essential. As the afternoon waned, the UV Index began to retreat, dropping to 9 at 16:00, and finally winding down to 3 by 18:00. An awareness of these shifts not only enhances outdoor enjoyment but ensures safety in the sun's embrace as the day unfolds.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from March to October, where exposure categories reach extreme status. March through August sees consistently high UV Index ratings of 12-13, resulting in a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these months, as the risk of sunburn is substantial. January and February also pose a risk with UV Index values near 10, categorized as very high, leading to a burn time of 15 minutes. As the seasons transition into November and December, the UV Index drops, but care should still be exercised. November has a UV Index of 9 (very high) with a burn time of 15 minutes, and December sees a further decrease to 7 (high), allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 25 minutes. To ensure safety, it is advisable to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing during the high-risk months, especially from March to October when sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage in a short amount of time.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuevo Vallarta | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Iztapalapa UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Ecatepec de Morelos UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Mexico City UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |