Papeete, French Polynesia UV Index in January
The average UV index in Papeete, French Polynesia in January is about 11.8 (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 Papeete, French Polynesia in January?
Average UV
11.8
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 Papeete, French Polynesia in January?
| 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 | 13 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 20 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 31 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 46 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Papeete, French Polynesia's latitude and typical January 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.
Papeete, French Polynesia UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Papeete, French Polynesia?
Highest: January (about 11.8). Lowest: June (about 10).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11.8 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| February | 11.8 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| March | 11.6 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| April | 11 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| May | 10.4 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| June | 10 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| July | 10.1 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| August | 10.7 | 12 | Very High | 8 min |
| September | 11.4 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| October | 11.7 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| November | 11.8 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| December | 11.8 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
Common questions about UV in Papeete, French Polynesia in January
Do you need sunscreen in Papeete, French Polynesia in January?
Yes. A UV index of 11.8 is Extreme, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Papeete, French Polynesia in January?
Yes, UV of 11.8 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 Papeete, French Polynesia?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 12 in January. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is January a good month to visit Papeete, French Polynesia for the sun?
January averages UV 11.8, compared with a yearly high of 11.8 in January and a low of 10 in June. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 46 minutes at this level.