Jacó, Costa Rica UV Index in May
The average UV index in Jacó, Costa Rica in May is about 11.1 (Extreme), peaking near 12 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 8 minutes without sunscreen. Avoid direct sun between 10am and 4pm. SPF 50+, full protective clothing, hat and sunglasses are essential.
What is the UV index in Jacó, Costa Rica in May?
Average UV
11.1
Extreme
Midday Peak
12
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
8 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Jacó, Costa Rica in May?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 5 min | up to 150 min |
| Type 2 | 8 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 14 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 22 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 32 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 49 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Jacó, Costa Rica's latitude and typical May sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.
Jacó, Costa Rica UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Jacó, Costa Rica?
Highest: April (about 11.2). Lowest: December (about 10.1).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| February | 10.6 | 12 | Very High | 8 min |
| March | 11 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| April | 11.2 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| May | 11.1 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| June | 11 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| July | 11 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| August | 11.2 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| September | 11.1 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| October | 10.8 | 12 | Very High | 8 min |
| November | 10.3 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| December | 10.1 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
Common questions about UV in Jacó, Costa Rica in May
Do you need sunscreen in Jacó, Costa Rica in May?
Yes. A UV index of 11.1 is Extreme, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Jacó, Costa Rica in May?
Yes, UV of 11.1 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 8 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Jacó, Costa Rica?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 12 in May. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is May a good month to visit Jacó, Costa Rica for the sun?
May averages UV 11.1, compared with a yearly high of 11.2 in April and a low of 10.1 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 49 minutes at this level.