UV Index in Cayucos, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In sunny Cayucos, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The UV Index provides vital information about the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, allowing residents and visitors alike to take the necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a temperate Csb climate, characterized by its mild summers and cool winters, Cayucos experiences varying UV levels, peaking at a significant 11 during midday hours, which increases the risk of overexposure. Being aware of these levels can help you enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin from harm.

Hourly UV Index in Cayucos

The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of solar intensity, peaking dramatically between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM with a striking 11—a warning to seek shade and protect skin. Starting the day at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs, reaching 4 by 9:00 AM and escalating to 9 by 11:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index hits 11, indicating extreme conditions that persist for a solid three hours. Following this midday blast, it gracefully declines to 6 by 4:00 PM, before tapering off to a safer 1 by the evening. Remember to stay sun-smart during those peak hours!

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
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:009very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cayucos

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with high-risk months primarily from March to September. The months of May to August exhibit dangerous levels of UV exposure, peaking at an extreme index of 12 in June, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, particularly during midday hours when UV radiation is most intense. Recommendations include wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade whenever possible. In contrast, January, February, and December present a lower risk, characterized by a moderate UV index, allowing for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of around 30 minutes. However, vigilance is still advisable year-round to protect against skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cayucos, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Cayucos. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4689111211119753
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Cayucos, 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 Cayucos UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cayucos compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Cayucos's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Cayucos4589111211119753
Houston UVI589111112121110975