UV Index in San Juan Vallarta, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Juan Vallarta, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index measures the sun's strength, helping residents and visitors gauge the risk of harmful exposure throughout the day. With a tropical climate characterized by intense sunlight, knowing the UV levels can aid in preventing sunburn and other long-term skin damage. Typically peaking around noon with a maximum UV reading of 14, San Juan Vallarta presents significant exposure risks, making it essential to stay informed and take protective measures during those peak hours. Stay smart under the sun for a safe and enjoyable experience!

Hourly UV Index in San Juan Vallarta

The UV Index showcases a dramatic rise throughout the morning, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 10:00, it escalates to 6, signaling the need for protection against the sun. The peak occurs at 13:00 with a soaring 14, suggesting it’s crucial to seek shade and apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 5 by 17:00 before settling back to 1 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of being sun-safe during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Juan Vallarta

Throughout the year, UV Index readings exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from March to September where the index consistently reaches 14 and is classified as extreme. January and November present very high indices of 10, with a burn time of 15 minutes, while December features a slightly lower index of 9. Visitors and residents are particularly at risk during the months of February through October, where the burn time drastically shortens to just 10 minutes due to the extreme UV exposure. It is essential for individuals to take proactive measures during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Juan Vallarta, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Juan Vallarta. 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 Juan Vallarta, 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 Juan Vallarta UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Juan Vallarta compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

San Juan Vallarta's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Guadalajara UVI	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
San Juan Vallarta	10	12	14	14	14	14	14	14	14	12	10	9
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