Discover the Top 10 Longest Coastlines in the World
Coastlines are the boundaries that separate the sea from land and play a significant role in shaping a country’s geographical and cultural backgrounds. From Canada’s coastline that stretches over 202,080 km and borders the Atlantic, Arctic, and Pacific oceans to Norway’s 83,281 km long coastline, and Indonesian coastline that runs across 54,716 km, each incredibly contributes to a country’s history, ecology, and economics.
When talking about the world’s largest coastline, Canada’s coastline comes at the top, spanning over 202,080 in length. This largest coastline lies in North America, and borders three oceans.
A coastline’s length is affected by some variables which include the nation’s geography, the intricacy of the shoreline, and the proximity of shoreline to extensive water bodies.
In this blog, we’ll discover the world’s top longest coastlines, their significance, and their contribution to the country’s economic growth.
List of the Top World’s Longest Coastlines
Here is the list of the longest coastlines across the globe.
- Canada, 202,080 km
- Norway, 83,281 km
- Indonesia, 54,716 km
- Greenland, 44,087 km
- Russia, 37,653 km
- Philippines, 36,289 km
- Japan, 29,751 km
- Australia, 25,760 km
- United States of America, 19,924 km
- New Zealand, 15,134 km
1. Canada, 202,080 km
Canada, the world’s second-largest country by area, is well-renowned for comprising the largest coastline that borders multiple oceans. Stretching approximately 202,080 km in length and carving its way through the Atlantic Ocean in the east, the Canadian coastline runs along two more oceans, the Pacific in the west, and the Arctic in the north. This diverse coastline offers everything from sandy beaches to icy tundras.
The country’s landscape along the shoreline varies, depending on the location because of having such a huge coastline that borders several oceans. About 80% of Canada is unoccupied, so it is ranked among the world’s cleanest landscapes.
This country is also home to numerous massive creatures such as moose, grizzly bears, and wood bison.
Canada is entitled as one of the world’s largest trading nations, which has a highly globalized economy. Holding major ports for trading and giving access to some of the best fishing, the coastline makes a significant contribution to the country’s thriving economy. A large portion of its GDP comes from international trade, as Canada has the largest trading partners including the U.S., China, and UK.
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2. Norway, 83,281
Norway boasts the world’s second-longest coastline. This country is located on the Scandinavian Peninsula in the northwest of Europe. About 83,281 km long, the coastline borders the North Atlantic Ocean on the west region, and the Barents Sea to the north.
The country’s coastline is erratic due to the numerous rocky striations from ports and islands, as well as the archipelago of Svalbard located in the Arctic Ocean. Its landscape is famous for savoring white mountains, deep glacial fjords, lush green forests, and exhilarating outdoor activities including hiking and kayaking. People all over the world come to see the Northern Lights in addition to its legendary Viking history.
Norway is one of the world’s largest oil and gas producers, has ranked among the top 20 exporters of oil, and is the second-largest natural gas, as well as seafood exporter across the globe. Moreover, the country’s exports consisted mainly of wooden goods to Great Britain and to a certain extent of iron and glass products.
The region is also renowned as a “Land of the Midnight Sun” for receiving the extended summertime daylight hours. Despite being home to a significant coastal population, the country’s allure extends beyond the captivating landscapes, offering rich cultural heritage, salmon fishing, and awe-inspiring fjords.
3. Indonesia, 54,716
Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelagic state, has 17,508 islands which makes it a diverse tourist attraction. From beaches and volcanoes to temples and museums, this beautiful country offers wonderful places to unveil.
There are 76 volcanoes, of which 76 are currently operational. Its unique topography is the result of the interaction between tidal forces and volcanic activity.
Its major islands are characterized by densely forested volcanic mountains in the interior that slope downward to coastal plains, which are covered by thick alluvial swamps that dissolve into shallow seas and coral reefs.
With the 54,716 km long coastline that carves its way through these islands, Indonesia is ranked third among the nations owning the largest coastlines worldwide.
The country’s largest and busiest port is Tanjung Priok Port, located in Jakarta and plays several roles. It serves as the national capital and central place of control for the national economy, as well as an administrative center in its own right and an industrial hub. The port’s significant position makes it an important trading center.
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4. Greenland, 44,087
Greenland is renowned as the world’s largest island, positioned in the North Atlantic Ocean. This sovereign country is technically a part of the Kingdom of Denmark and is famous for its vast tundras and immense glaciers.
Its coastline is rugged, mountainous, and barren, with the land rising to a sloping ice cap that covers most of the island. Approximately 80% of the country’s landmass is covered by the ice sheet, spanning across 1.7 million square km.
Boasting a 44,086 km long coastline, this region is centered between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans and has the nearest neighbors, Canada and Iceland.
Nuuk Port and Harbour is the region’s largest port that ensures facilities for accommodating small to medium-sized cruise vessels and contributing to the local tourism economy.
Moreover, Greenland features the world’s largest National park in the northwestern region. These coastal regions are also inhabited by a diverse array of plants and animals.
The country also comprises three UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Ilulissat Icefjord on the west coast, Kujataa Greenland in the South part, and Aasivissuit-Napisat in the west area.
5. Russia, 37,653
Russia boasts a varied landscape, ranging from desert to frozen coastline, and tall mountains to giant marshes. It is the world’s largest country, occupying one-tenth of all the land on Earth.
While spanning over 11 time zones across two continents, Europe and Asia, this country has a coastline that stretches on three oceans, the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic.
This country has boundaries with the Caspian, Black, Azov, and Baltic Seas. The Baltic Sea, St. Petersburg is Russia’s most populous city and holds immense importance for being the country’s cultural center.
Read Also: 10 Most Visited Cities in the World
6. Philippines, 36,289 km
The Philippines, an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, comprises over 7,640 islands, contributing to its extensive 36,289 km coastline. This nation is strategically located between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, making it a crucial maritime hub.
The country’s coastline features diverse landscapes, from pristine white-sand beaches to dramatic limestone cliffs. The Port of Manila serves as the country’s premier seaport, facilitating international trade and boosting the economy.
The Philippine coastline plays a vital role in supporting the country’s fishing industry, which provides livelihood to millions of locals. Moreover, these coastal regions are home to rich marine biodiversity, including extensive coral reefs and various marine species, making it a popular destination for diving enthusiasts.
7. Japan, 29,751 km
Japan, an island nation in East Asia, boasts a coastline spanning 29,751 km along the Pacific Ocean. The country consists of four main islands Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku along with numerous smaller islands.
Its coastline varies dramatically, featuring everything from rocky cliffs to sandy beaches, and hosts some of the world’s busiest ports, including Yokohama and Nagoya. The maritime boundary significantly influences Japan’s culture, economy, and cuisine, particularly its renowned fishing industry.
The country’s coastal regions are also characterized by numerous natural harbors that have historically facilitated international trade and continue to play a crucial role in Japan’s position as a global economic power.
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8. Australia, 25,760 km
Australia, the world’s smallest continent and largest island nation, features a coastline extending 25,760 km. This vast shoreline encompasses diverse ecosystems, from the iconic Great Barrier Reef along the northeastern coast to the rugged cliffs of the Great Australian Bight in the south.
The Port of Melbourne, Australia’s largest seaport, serves as a crucial hub for international trade. The country’s coastal regions support various industries, including tourism, fishing, and mining operations.
Notable coastal features include pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and unique marine ecosystems that attract millions of visitors annually. The coastline also plays a significant role in supporting Australia’s rich biodiversity and provides habitat for numerous endemic species.
9. United States of America, 19,924 km
The United States possesses a diverse coastline stretching 19,924 km, bordering both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, as well as the Gulf of Mexico. This extensive shoreline encompasses various geographical features, from the rocky shores of Maine to the tropical beaches of Florida and the dramatic cliffs of California.
Major ports such as Los Angeles and New York handle significant portions of the country’s international trade. The American coastline supports crucial economic activities, including commercial fishing, tourism, and offshore energy production.
These coastal regions are also home to important marine ecosystems and serve as vital transportation corridors for global commerce.
10. New Zealand, 15,134 km
New Zealand’s coastline extends 15,134 km across two main islands, the North Island and South Island. This island nation’s shoreline is characterized by dramatic fjords, volcanic beaches, and pristine bays.
The Port of Tauranga, the country’s largest port by cargo volume, plays a vital role in the nation’s export-oriented economy. New Zealand’s coastal areas are renowned for their unique marine life, including various species of whales and dolphins.
The coastline significantly influences the country’s culture, particularly among the Maori people, and supports important industries such as fishing, aquaculture, and tourism.
Read Also: Which Are the Most Beautiful Islands in the World?
Table Comparison of the World’s Longest Coastlines
| No. | Names Longest Coastlines | Length of Coastline | Continents |
| 1 | Canada | 202,080 km | North America |
| 2 | Norway | 83,281 km | Europe |
| 3 | Indonesia | 54,716 km | Asia, Australia |
| 4 | Greenland | 44,087 km | North America |
| 5 | Russia | 37,653 km | Europe, Asia |
| 6 | Philippines | 36,289 km | Asia |
| 7 | Japan | 29,751 km | Asia |
| 8 | Australia | 25,760 km | Australia |
| 9 | US | 19,924 km | North America |
| 10 | New Zealand | 15,134 km | Antarctica |
Conclusion
The world’s longest coastlines represent more than just geographical boundaries; they are vital arteries that connect nations to global commerce, support diverse ecosystems, and shape cultural identities. From Canada’s extensive 202,080 km shoreline to New Zealand’s scenic 15,134 km coast, each of these maritime frontiers contributes uniquely to their respective nations’ development and prosperity. These coastlines serve as crucial economic drivers, supporting industries ranging from fishing and tourism to international trade and energy production.
Read Also: Longest Borders in the World
FAQ’s
Which Ocean Has the Most Coastlines?
The Atlantic Ocean has the most coastline and is entitled as the world’s second-largest ocean.
How Many Countries Have Coastlines?
According to the World Resource Institute (WRI), around 182 independent countries and 13 dependencies have coastlines.
How Long Is the Longest Coastline?
Canada’s coastline is marked as the world’s longest coastline stretching 202,080 km, followed by Norway and Indonesia.
Which Country Has the Smallest Coastline?
Monaco, the sovereign country, has the smallest coastline which runs approximately 5.6 kilometers.
What Do You Mean by Coastline?
A coastline can be defined as a line that serves as a boundary between sea and land.
I’m Sophia Jones, an adventurer at heart from New York City, USA. I live for travel and exploration, always eager to discover new places, meet fascinating people, and try out diverse cuisines. Over the past few years, I’ve traveled to numerous countries, immersing myself in different cultures and creating unforgettable memories.
