Top 12 Countries with the Longest Coastlines
This ranking is based on data from the World Resources Institute and The World Factbook. Coastline measurements are influenced by the paradox of coastline length (fractal geometry). These figures represent the vastness of coastal territories, serving as a critical indicator for maritime economy, security, and resource management.
Interesting Facts & Summary
Canada holds an "unshakable" lead as the world’s coastline champion. Spanning approximately 243,042 kilometers, the scale is staggering: if you were to walk along its coast at a pace of 20 kilometers a day, it would take over 33 years of non-stop walking to complete the journey. While runner-up Norway boasts an extensive coastline due to its intricate fjords, it still lags significantly behind Canada. In fact, Canada’s coastline is long enough to circle the Earth’s equator more than 6 times. This geographical marvel not only dictates Canada's unique maritime climate but also cements its status as a nation with one of the highest densities of islands and complex inland waterways in the world.
| Rank | Country | Coastline Length (km) | Geographic Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
Canada | 202080 | Boasts the world's longest coastline, bordering the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans. | |
Norway | 58133 | Famous for its intricate fjords, which significantly extend its measured coastline. | |
Indonesia | 54716 | The world's largest archipelagic state, comprised of tens of thousands of islands. | |
| 4 | Russia | 37653 | Features extensive coastlines along the Arctic Ocean and the Pacific coast. |
| 5 | Philippines | 36289 | Composed of over 7,000 islands, resulting in a highly fragmented and long coastline. |
| 6 | Japan | 29751 | The insular geography places Japan among the world leaders in coastline length. |
| 7 | Australia | 25760 | As a continental nation, its massive perimeter provides a vast coastal zone. |
| 8 | United States | 19924 | Includes extensive coastlines along the Pacific, Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Arctic. |
| 9 | Antarctica | 17968 | While not a sovereign country, it is often included in geographic rankings. |
| 10 | New Zealand | 15134 | Consists of two main islands and numerous smaller islands. |