UV Index in Charleston

Real-time UV forecast & tanning weather

Current Conditions

Loading live weather data...
0
Low
UV Index
🌡️
28°C
Temperature
Partly Cloudy
Conditions
☀️
Peak Tanning Window 1PM • UV 6

Hourly UV Forecast

☀️ Excellent tanning conditions 11AM–5PM 32°C • 22 km/h 🌬️
0
6AM
0
7AM
1
8AM
2
9AM
3
10AM
4
11AM
5
12PM
6
1PM
6
2PM
5
3PM
4
4PM
3
5PM
2
6PM
1
7PM
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8PM
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9PM
Low 0–2 Moderate 3–5 High 6–7 Very High 8–10 Extreme 11+

Daily UV Forecast

6
Wed 22
Excellent
8
Thu 23
Excellent
6
Fri 24
Excellent
6
Sat 25
Excellent
6
Sun 26
Excellent
7
Mon 27
Excellent
7
Tue 28
Excellent
9
Wed 29
Excellent
7
Thu 30
Excellent
7
Fri 31
Excellent

Location & Climate

Charleston boasts a subtropical climate with strong UV rays present year-round, making tanning a year-round possibility, though summer humidity can be high. Find your perfect tanning spot on Folly Beach or Sullivan's Island, ideally during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday peak intensity.

Tanning Tips

Charleston enjoys strong UV from spring through fall. Peak tanning season runs March to November, with UV often exceeding 8.

Weather data by Apple Weather

Monthly UV Index in Charleston

Average daily maximum UV index by month

Jan
6
Feb
6
Mar
7
Apr
8
May
9
Jun
10
Jul
10
Aug
10
Sep
9
Oct
8
Nov
7
Dec
6
Low Moderate High Very High Extreme

Best Months to Tan in Charleston

Based on average UV levels, the best months for tanning in Charleston are:

March Great April Great May Excellent June Excellent July Excellent August Excellent September Excellent October Great November Great

Rating based on average monthly UV index

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UV index in Charleston right now?
The current UV index in Charleston is shown in the live weather section above. UV levels change throughout the day, typically peaking between 11 AM and 2 PM local time.
What is the best month to tan in Charleston?
The best months for tanning in Charleston are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, when average UV levels reach 7 or higher.
How long should I tan in Charleston?
Tanning time depends on your skin type and the current UV index. For a moderate UV of 9, a person with Skin Type III (medium complexion) can safely tan for about 17 minutes per session. Use our Tanning Calculator for personalized recommendations.
Is it safe to tan in UV index 10?
UV index 10 is classified as Very High. Very High — avoid prolonged sun exposure. Short tanning sessions with SPF 50+ recommended.
When is the peak UV time in Charleston?
UV levels in Charleston typically peak between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM local time. The exact peak depends on the season, cloud cover, and altitude.

Get Personalized Tanning Sessions

Tan AI calculates your perfect tanning time based on real-time UV, your skin type, and goals.