Coastlines are the boundaries where land meets water, and they can vary in shape, size, and length depending on the scale of measurement and the natural processes that shape them. Coastlines are important for many reasons: they provide habitats for diverse marine life, they offer economic opportunities for tourism, fishing, and trade, they protect inland areas from storms and erosion, and they enhance the well-being of people who live near or visit them.
What are the Top 10 Countries with Longest Coastline?
But which countries have the longest coastlines in the world? This article will rank the top 10 countries by their total coastline length, based on data from the World Resources Institute (WRI) , which uses a consistent methodology and scale of 1:250,000 to measure coastlines across the globe. The article will also provide some interesting facts and information about each country’s coastal features, challenges, and opportunities.
10. China – 14,500 km
China has the 10th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 14,500 km. China’s coastline stretches from the Bo Hai Gulf in the north to the Gulf of Tonkin in the south, bordering the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea, and the South China Sea. China’s coastline is diverse and complex, with many bays, gulfs, islands, peninsulas, and deltas. Some of the most notable coastal landmarks include the Great Wall of China, which extends along part of the northern coast; the Pearl River Delta, which is one of the most densely populated and urbanized regions in the world; and the Hainan Island, which is China’s southernmost province and a popular tourist destination.
China’s coastline is also facing many challenges and opportunities in the 21st century. Some of the major issues include coastal erosion, pollution, overfishing, sea level rise, and maritime disputes with neighboring countries. Some of the potential solutions include investing in coastal protection and restoration projects, promoting sustainable development and management of coastal resources, enhancing cooperation and dialogue with regional partners, and harnessing the potential of blue economy sectors such as offshore wind energy, aquaculture, and marine biotechnology.
9. New Zealand – 15,134 km
New Zealand has the 9th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 15,134 km. New Zealand is an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, consisting of two main islands (the North Island and the South Island) and several smaller islands. New Zealand’s coastline borders the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and is characterized by steep cliffs, headlands, fjords, beaches, and bays. Some of the most famous coastal attractions include the Milford Sound, which is a stunning fjord surrounded by mountains and waterfalls; the Bay of Islands, which is a scenic archipelago with rich marine life; and the Ninety Mile Beach, which is actually a 55-mile long sandy beach on the northwestern tip of the North Island.
New Zealand’s coastline is also a source of pride and identity for its people, especially for the indigenous Maori people who have a strong cultural and spiritual connection to the sea. New Zealand’s coastline is also a hotspot for biodiversity and conservation efforts, as it hosts many endemic and endangered species such as penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, and seabirds. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for New Zealand’s coastline include managing the impacts of climate change, tourism, and invasive species; balancing the needs of different stakeholders such as fishers, recreational users, and environmentalists; and enhancing the resilience and sustainability of coastal communities and ecosystems.
8. United States – 19,924 km
The United States has the 8th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 19, 924 km. The United States is a federal republic consisting of 50 states and several territories, with coasts on the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, the Arctic Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico. The United States’ coastline is very diverse and varied, with different regions having different features, challenges, and opportunities. Some of the most notable coastal landmarks include the Statue of Liberty, which is a symbol of freedom and democracy on New York Harbor; the Golden Gate Bridge, which is a engineering marvel that spans San Francisco Bay; and Hawaii, which is a tropical island state with volcanic origins and spectacular scenery.
The United States’ coastline is also a vital asset for its economy, security, and culture. The United States’ coastline supports many industries such as tourism, fishing, shipping, and energy; provides strategic advantages for its military and diplomatic interests; and reflects its diversity and heritage of its people. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for the United States’ coastline include addressing the threats of coastal hazards, pollution, habitat loss, and climate change; promoting coastal resilience and adaptation; and fostering coastal stewardship and innovation.
7. Australia – 25,760 km
Australia has the 7th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 25,760 km. Australia is a continent and a country in the Southern Hemisphere, surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Australia’s coastline is varied and spectacular, with a wide range of landforms such as caves, coves, beaches, cliffs, and reefs. Some of the most iconic coastal attractions include the Great Barrier Reef, which is the world’s largest coral reef system and a natural wonder; the Sydney Opera House, which is a architectural masterpiece and a cultural landmark; and the Twelve Apostles, which are limestone formations that rise from the sea along the Great Ocean Road.
Australia’s coastline is also a source of wealth and opportunity for its people, as well as a challenge and responsibility. Australia’s coastline supports many sectors of its economy such as tourism, fishing, mining, and agriculture; provides access to its neighboring countries and regions such as Asia, Oceania, and Antarctica; and influences its climate and weather patterns. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for Australia’s coastline include protecting its unique and fragile coastal ecosystems and biodiversity; managing its vast and remote coastal areas and resources; and adapting to the impacts of climate change and sea level rise.
6. Japan – 29,751 km
Japan has the 6th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 29,751 km. Japan is an island nation in East Asia, located between the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the East China Sea. Japan consists of over 6,000 islands, but most of its population and land area are concentrated on four main islands: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Japan’s coastline is complex and dynamic, with many bays, peninsulas, islands, volcanoes, and hot springs. Some of the most famous coastal features include Mount Fuji, which is Japan’s highest mountain and a sacred symbol; Tokyo Bay, which is one of the world’s largest and busiest ports; and Okinawa, which is a subtropical island chain with rich culture and history.
Japan’s coastline is also a key factor in its development and identity, as well as its challenges and opportunities. Japan’s coastline has enabled its economic growth and integration with the world through trade, technology, and innovation; shaped its culture and society through art, literature, religion, and cuisine; and tested its resilience and recovery through natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for Japan’s coastline include enhancing its coastal defense and preparedness; balancing its coastal development and conservation; and strengthening its coastal cooperation and leadership.
5. Philippines – 36,289 km
The Philippines has the 5th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 36, 289 km. The Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, located in the western Pacific Ocean. The Philippines comprises more than 7, 600 islands, with three main island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Philippines’ coastline is rich and diverse, with countless gulfs, bays, islets, and coral reefs. Some of the most popular coastal destinations include Boracay, which is a famous beach resort island; Manila Bay, which is a historic and strategic harbor; and Palawan, which is a biodiverse province with pristine natural beauty.
The Philippines’ coastline is also a vital resource and asset for its people, as well as a source of vulnerability and risk. The Philippines’ coastline supports many livelihoods and industries such as tourism, fishing, agriculture, and manufacturing; provides cultural and historical value for its diverse ethnic groups; and connects it to its regional neighbors and partners. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for the Philippines’ coastline include coping with the effects of climate change, sea level rise, and extreme weather events; managing its coastal pollution, degradation, and conflicts; and enhancing its coastal governance, participation, and innovation.
4. Russia – 37,653 km
Russia has the
4th longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 37,653 km. Russia is the largest country in the world by land area, spanning across Europe and Asia. Russia’s coastline borders several seas and oceans, such as the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea, the Caspian Sea, the Arctic Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. Russia’s coastline is diverse and extreme, with a wide range of climates, landscapes, and ecosystems. Some of the most remarkable coastal features include Lake Baikal, which is the world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake; the Kamchatka Peninsula, which is a volcanic and geothermal wonderland; and the Bering Strait, which is a narrow passage that separates Russia from Alaska.
Russia’s coastline is also a strategic and economic asset for its nation, as well as a challenge and responsibility. Russia’s coastline provides access to its vast natural resources such as oil, gas, minerals, and fish; enhances its military and political influence in the region and the world; and reflects its history and culture of exploration and expansion. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for Russia’s coastline include protecting its fragile and vulnerable coastal environments and wildlife; developing its infrastructure and connectivity in remote and harsh coastal areas; and cooperating with its neighboring countries on shared coastal issues and interests.
3. Indonesia – 54,716 km
Indonesia has the 3rd longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 54,716 km. Indonesia is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia and Oceania, located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Indonesia consists of more than 17,000 islands, with five main islands: Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, and Papua. Indonesia’s coastline is diverse and beautiful, with a variety of landforms such as beaches, mangroves, estuaries, lagoons, and coral reefs. Some of the most famous coastal attractions include Bali, which is a renowned island resort with a unique culture and spirituality; Komodo Island, which is home to the world’s largest lizard species; and Raja Ampat Islands, which are considered to be one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the world.
Indonesia’s coastline is also a crucial resource and asset for its people, as well as a source of vulnerability and risk. Indonesia’s coastline supports many livelihoods and industries such as tourism, fishing, agriculture, and forestry; provides cultural and religious value for its diverse ethnic groups; and connects it to its regional neighbors and partners. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for Indonesia’s coastline include coping with the effects of climate change, sea level rise, and natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions; managing its coastal pollution, degradation, and conflicts; and enhancing its coastal governance, participation, and innovation.
2. Canada – 202,080 km
Canada has the 2nd longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 202, 080 km. Canada is a country in North America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and the Arctic Ocean. Canada’s coastline is vast and varied, with different regions having different features, challenges, and opportunities. Some of the most notable coastal landmarks include the Niagara Falls, which are spectacular waterfalls that straddle the border between Canada and the United States; the Vancouver Island, which is a large island with diverse natural beauty and wildlife; and Nunavut, which is Canada’s northernmost territory with a predominantly Inuit population.
Canada’s coastline is also a vital asset for its economy, security, and culture. Canada’s coastline supports many sectors of its economy such as tourism, fishing, shipping, and energy; provides strategic advantages for its military and diplomatic interests; and reflects its diversity and heritage of its people. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for Canada’s coastline include addressing the threats of coastal hazards, pollution, habitat loss, and climate change; promoting coastal resilience and adaptation; and fostering coastal stewardship and innovation.
1. Norway – 58,133 km
Norway has the longest coastline in the world, with a total length of 58,133 km. Norway is a country in Northern Europe, located on the Scandinavian Peninsula. Norway’s coastline borders the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, and the Barents Sea. Norway’s coastline is unique and stunning, with a distinctive feature called fjords. Fjords are long, narrow inlets of sea water that are surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains. Some of the most famous fjords include Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord, and Nærøyfjord. Norway’s coastline also has many islands, archipelagos, and glaciers.
Norway’s coastline is also a source of pride and prosperity for its nation, as well as a challenge and responsibility. Norway’s coastline supports many industries such as tourism, fishing, oil and gas, and renewable energy; provides access to its neighboring countries and regions such as Sweden, Denmark, Russia, and the Arctic; and influences its climate and weather patterns. Some of the main challenges and opportunities for Norway’s coastline include protecting its pristine and fragile coastal ecosystems and biodiversity; managing its vast and complex coastal areas and resources; and adapting to the impacts of climate change and sea level rise.
Conclusion
Coastlines are the boundaries where land meets water, and they can vary in shape, size, and length depending on the scale of measurement and the natural processes that shape them. Coastlines are important for many reasons: they provide habitats for diverse marine life, they offer economic opportunities for tourism, fishing, and trade, they protect inland areas from storms and erosion, and they enhance the well-being of people who live near or visit them.
This article has ranked the top 10 countries by their total coastline length, based on data from the World Resources Institute (WRI) , which uses a consistent methodology and scale of 1:250,000 to measure coastlines across the globe. The article has also provided some interesting facts and information about each country’s coastal features, challenges, and opportunities.
The top 10 countries with longest coastline are:
| Rank | Country | Coastline Length (km) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Norway | 58,133 |
| 2 | Canada | 202,080 |
| 3 | Indonesia | 54,716 |
| 4 | Russia | 37,653 |
| 5 | Philippines | 36,289 |
| 6 | Japan | 29,751 |
| 7 | Australia | 25,760 |
| 8 | United States | 19,924 |
| 9 | New Zealand | 15,134 |
| 10 | China | 14,500 |
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Here are some of the most asked questions and answers about coastlines:
- Q: What is the definition of a coastline?
- A: A coastline is the boundary where land meets water. However, there is no single or universal definition of a coastline, as different methods and scales of measurement can produce different results. For example, a coastline can be measured by using straight lines or curves, by using large-scale or small-scale maps, or by using high-tide or low-tide levels.
- Q: What is the difference between a coastline and a shoreline?
- A: A coastline is a general term that refers to the boundary where land meets water. A shoreline is a specific term that refers to the line that marks the edge of the water at any given time. A shoreline can change due to tides, waves, currents, erosion, or deposition.
- Q: What are the factors that affect the shape and length of a coastline?
- A: The shape and length of a coastline are affected by both natural and human factors. Natural factors include tectonic movements, volcanic activity, glacial activity, sea level changes, weathering, erosion, deposition, and biological activity. Human factors include coastal development, engineering, pollution, and management.
- Q: What are the types of coastlines?
- A: There are many types of coastlines, depending on their geographic location, geologic formation, and physical characteristics. Some of the common types of coastlines include rocky coasts, sandy coasts, deltas, estuaries, fjords, lagoons, reefs, and islands.
- Q: What are the benefits of coastlines?
- A: Coastlines have many benefits for humans and nature. Some of the benefits include providing habitats for diverse marine life; offering economic opportunities for tourism, fishing, and trade; protecting inland areas from storms and erosion; and enhancing the well-being of people who live near or visit them.
- Q: What are the challenges of coastlines?
- A: Coastlines also face many challenges in the 21st century. Some of the challenges include coping with the effects of climate change, sea level rise, and extreme weather events; managing coastal pollution, degradation, and conflicts; balancing coastal development and conservation; enhancing coastal resilience and adaptation; and fostering coastal stewardship and innovation.
- Q: What are some examples of coastal management strategies?
- A: Coastal management is the process of planning and implementing actions to address coastal issues and interests. Some examples of coastal management strategies include coastal zoning, which regulates land use and activities in coastal areas; coastal protection, which involves building structures or restoring natural features to reduce coastal hazards; coastal restoration, which involves restoring degraded or lost coastal habitats and ecosystems; coastal education and awareness