Discover the top 10 countries with the longest coastlines in the world. Learn about their geography, importance, and stunning coastal beauty.
What is a Coastline?
A coastline is the boundary where land meets the sea or ocean. Its length can vary depending on how it’s measured, as coastlines can be irregular with bays, peninsulas, and islands.
Top 10 Countries with the Longest Coastlines
Here’s a list of the countries that boast the longest coastlines, based on data from the CIA World Factbook and other reliable sources.
| Rank | Country | Coastline Length (in km) | Key Oceans/Seas |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | 202,080 km | Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic |
| 2 | Norway (including Svalbard) | 58,133 km | Atlantic Ocean, Norwegian Sea |
| 3 | Indonesia | 54,716 km | Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean |
| 4 | Russia | 37,653 km | Arctic Ocean, Pacific Ocean |
| 5 | Philippines | 36,289 km | Pacific Ocean, South China Sea |
| 6 | Japan | 29,751 km | Pacific Ocean, Sea of Japan |
| 7 | Australia | 25,760 km | Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean |
| 8 | United States | 19,924 km | Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic |
| 9 | Antarctica | 17,968 km | Southern Ocean |
| 10 | New Zealand | 15,134 km | Pacific Ocean, Tasman Sea |
Highlights of the Top 3
1. Canada – The Coastline Giant
With over 202,000 km, Canada has the longest coastline in the world, stretching along three major oceans. It has thousands of islands and bays, which greatly increase its coastal length.
2. Norway – Fjord Paradise
Norway’s rugged fjords and numerous islands contribute to its 58,000+ km coastline, making it a haven for nature lovers and fishing communities.
3. Indonesia – Island Nation
Made up of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia’s coastline is the third-longest globally, with tropical beaches and coral reefs.
Importance of Long Coastlines
Countries with long coastlines enjoy:
- Trade Advantages: Easier access to international shipping routes.
- Tourism Growth: Beaches, resorts, and water sports attract visitors.
- Marine Biodiversity: Rich fishing grounds and coral ecosystems.
- Strategic Defense: Coastal regions are key for naval forces.