UV Index in Koh Tao, Thailand

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Koh Tao, Thailand, keeping an eye on the UV Index is vital for both locals and visitors alike. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health, especially in a tropical paradise where the sun's rays can be intense. With a climate classified as Am, Koh Tao frequently faces high UV exposure, peaking at 14 around noon. Being aware of these UV levels can help you enjoy the stunning beaches and vibrant underwater life while protecting your skin from potential damage. Stay informed, stay safe, and relish the beauty that Koh Tao has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Koh Tao

At sunrise, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, starting at a low of 1 at 07:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases rapidly, reaching 3 by 08:00 and surging to 5 by 09:00. The real peak occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, where the index skyrockets to an impressive 12 and a staggering 14, signaling the most intense UV radiation of the day. By 13:00, it begins a gradual decline to 13, before tapering off to 10 at 14:00. The afternoon heat cools down the UV exposure as it drops to 7 at 15:00 and continues to decrease to 4 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the index diminishes quickly, settling at 2 by 17:00 and retreating to 1 by 18:00, with the day closing out at 0 by 19:00. Be sure to seek shade and apply sunscreen during those peak hours to protect your skin from harmful rays!

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Koh Tao

The UV Index demonstrates a consistently extreme exposure risk throughout the year, with the highest values occurring from March to April, where it reaches up to 15. Visitors and residents should note that the high-risk months span from January to October, maintaining an extreme rating across this period, with a brief drop to 11 in November and December. Regardless of the month, the burn time remains remarkably short at just 10 minutes, indicating an urgent need for protective measures against UV exposure. It is advisable for everyone to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours to ensure safety from harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Koh Tao, Thailand

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao, 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 Koh Tao UV Index with Other Thailand Cities

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

Koh Tao's solar exposure compared to other cities in Thailand. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mueang Nonthaburi UVI	10	12	14	13	14	13	14	14	13	12	9	8
Samut Prakan UVI	10	12	14	13	14	13	14	14	13	12	9	8
Bangkok UVI	10	12	14	13	14	13	14	14	13	12	9	8
Udon Thani UVI	9	11	13	14	14	13	14	14	14	12	10	9
Chon Buri UVI	10	13	14	14	14	13	14	14	13	13	10	9
Koh Tao	11	14	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	11	11