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If you know country geography you’ve maybe tried World Countries With The Longest Coastlines. Here are the top 10.
Canada – 202,080 km
Canada boasts the longest coastline in the world, stretching over 202,080 kilometers. Bordered by three oceans — the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic — Canada’s coastline is dotted with thousands of islands, creating an expansive, diverse coastal landscape. The geography of Canada’s coastline varies greatly, from the rugged cliffs and fjords of the east to the temperate rainforests on the Pacific coast. This immense length also includes iconic locations like the Bay of Fundy, famous for having the highest tides in the world, and the scenic fjords of British Columbia.
Norway – 87,021 km
Norway’s coastline, stretching 87,021 kilometers, is marked by its iconic fjords, steep cliffs, and extensive archipelagos. Norway’s jagged coastline was shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, creating deep inlets and narrow waterways. Some of the country’s most famous fjords, including Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord, attract millions of visitors each year. The unique geography of Norway’s coast also makes it rich in marine biodiversity, supporting extensive fishing industries and providing scenic routes for fjord cruises.
Indonesia – 54,716 km
Indonesia’s coastline stretches 54,716 kilometers across its more than 17,000 islands, making it the longest in Southeast Asia. This vast archipelago is surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, giving it a rich and diverse marine ecosystem. The country’s coastline includes popular tourist destinations like Bali, Sumatra, and Java, known for their tropical beaches, coral reefs, and marine biodiversity. Indonesia’s coastal regions are vital for its economy, providing resources for fishing, tourism, and maritime trade, although they are also vulnerable to natural disasters like tsunamis and rising sea levels.
Denmark – 52,518 km
Denmark’s coastline of 52,518 kilometers is largely due to its position in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, along with its many islands. With over 400 named islands, including Greenland and the Faroe Islands as territories, Denmark’s coastline is highly segmented and diverse. Danish beaches are known for their pristine conditions, and the country’s coastal towns are popular for tourism. The coastline also supports a strong fishing industry and facilitates maritime trade across Northern Europe.
Russia – 37,653 km
Russia’s coastline of 37,653 kilometers spans both the Arctic and Pacific Oceans, making it one of the world’s most extensive. The northern coast, along the Arctic Ocean, is characterized by extreme cold and ice, while the eastern coast, along the Pacific, includes the remote and sparsely populated Kamchatka Peninsula. Russia’s strategic Arctic coastline is becoming increasingly significant as Arctic ice melts, opening new shipping routes and access to resources. Additionally, Russia’s Pacific coastline is notable for its scenic landscapes and fishing ports.
Philippines – 36,289 km
The Philippines has a coastline stretching 36,289 kilometers, spread across its 7,641 islands. Its coastlines are famous for white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, which draw tourists from around the world. The Philippine archipelago is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which gives it rich biodiversity but also makes it susceptible to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. The coastlines play a crucial role in local livelihoods, with fishing and tourism being key economic activities in coastal regions like Palawan, Cebu, and Boracay.
Finland – 31,119 km
Finland’s coastline of 31,119 kilometers stretches along the Baltic Sea and includes numerous islands and skerries, particularly in the Archipelago Sea. Known for its rocky beaches and unique archipelago, Finland’s coastlines support diverse ecosystems and serve as a popular destination for sailing and fishing. The Archipelago Sea, located between mainland Finland and the Åland Islands, has one of the world’s most complex groups of islands. Finland’s coastal landscape is distinct with its calm waters and small, wooded islands.
Japan – 29,751 km
Japan’s coastline, which measures 29,751 kilometers, reflects the island nation’s location in the Pacific Ocean. Japan’s coastal regions are densely populated, hosting major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama. Japan’s coastlines vary from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs and have significant economic importance due to fishing, maritime trade, and tourism. Its coastal areas are also culturally significant, with many temples, shrines, and historical sites located near the sea. However, Japan’s coastline is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis, leading to extensive coastal engineering projects for disaster prevention.
Australia – 29,227 km
Australia’s 29,227-kilometer coastline includes some of the world’s most iconic beaches, from the Great Barrier Reef to Bondi Beach. Surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Australia’s coastal waters support unique marine biodiversity and are home to diverse coral reefs. Australian coastlines are significant for tourism, with attractions like the Great Ocean Road and the Gold Coast drawing millions of visitors. The coastlines also play a critical role in the country’s fishing and marine industries and are central to the lifestyles of many Australians.
United States – 22,449 km
The United States has a coastline of 22,449 kilometers along both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Gulf of Mexico. The U.S. coastline is home to some of the world’s busiest ports, such as Los Angeles and New York, which are crucial for international trade. Iconic coastal landmarks like the Florida Keys, California’s Big Sur, and Maine’s rugged shores make the U.S. coastline a major draw for tourists. Additionally, the U.S. coastline is significant for ecological diversity, with unique habitats ranging from temperate rainforests in the Pacific Northwest to coral reefs in Florida.
