UV Index in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and ensuring your health under the sun. With its tropical climate and abundant sunshine, San Juan del Sur presents unique UV exposure risks that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if not carefully monitored. Understanding the daily UV levels—which peak at a staggering 14 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—is crucial for both locals and visitors, enabling you to take necessary precautions during peak hours. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in San Juan del Sur

The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a pronounced peak around midday. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, it escalates rapidly, reaching a significant 14 by 11:00 and 12:00, marking the most intense exposure period. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 14:00 and further to 5 by 15:00. The evening brings a welcome relief, with values plummeting to 1 by 17:00 and finally settling to 0 post 18:00. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 to 14:00, when the UV radiation is most hazardous. Stay safe, stay shaded! ☀️

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:005moderate30 min
09:008very high15 min
10:0011extreme10 min
11:0014extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Juan del Sur

The UV Index exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with extreme exposure categories persisting from January through August, showcasing values as high as 15 in April. The months of March to August are particularly high-risk, with consistent values around 14, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes during peak hours. As the year progresses, a slight decline occurs, with November and December experiencing values of 11 and 10, respectively, but still warranting caution due to very high exposure levels. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proactive measures during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Juan del Sur. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111314151414141313131110
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for San Juan del Sur, 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 del Sur UV Index with Other Nicaragua Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Juan del Sur compares to other major locations across Nicaragua. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
San Juan del Sur's solar exposure compared to other cities in Nicaragua. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chinandega UVI11121414141413131313109
Leon UVI111214141414131313131010
Managua UVI111314141413131313131010
Masaya UVI111314141414141313131010
San Juan del Sur111314151414141313131110
Matagalpa UVI111315151414141414141110