UV Index in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Playa del Carmen, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for both residents and visitors. Understanding UV levels is key to sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health, especially in a region renowned for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather. With peak UV Index readings reaching as high as 13 around midday, the tropical climate poses significant risks for overexposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant sun-soaked days while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Playa del Carmen

Today’s UV Index showcases a dynamic rise and fall in sun intensity throughout the day. Early morning begins with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually increasing to a mild 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, we hit a noticeable 4 at 9:00 AM, but the real surge comes around 10:00 AM, peaking at a powerful 11 by 11:00 AM. The peak intensity reaches an astonishing 13 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, ideal times for those seeking a sun-soaked experience—though caution is advised! The afternoon brings a gradual decrease, with the index slipping to 8 at 3:00 PM and continuing down to 5 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV levels fall back to 1 by the evening, highlighting the importance of timing when enjoying the great outdoors. 🌞

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Playa del Carmen

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months identified from March to October, where the index reaches extreme levels. In these months, the UV Index peaks at 13 in April, May, and June, corresponding to a burn time of only 10 minutes. Even in January and February, the UV Index remains notably high at 8 and 10, making these months also pose risks. As fall approaches, the index begins to decline, dropping to 11 in October and further down to 8 and 7 during November and December, with longer burn times of 15 and 25 minutes respectively. For both visitors and residents, it is crucial to take precautions during the high-risk months, including applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Playa del Carmen, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Playa del Carmen. 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 Playa del Carmen, 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 Playa del Carmen UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen'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
Playa del Carmen	8	10	12	13	13	13	12	12	12	11	8	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