The Longest Coastlines in the World: Canada, Norway, Indonesia, Russia, Philippines, Japan, and Australia

Coastlines draw travelers with breathtaking panoramas, vibrant sea life, and living traditions right at the water’s edge. A country’s total shoreline often hints at its sheer size, and a few landmasses fan out for thousands of miles. Whether frozen in the Arctic or framed by palm trees, each stretch of shore invites tourism, trade, and exploration on its gentle waves.

Below, you’ll find the seven countries with the longest coastlines, along with must-know travel tips and the top adventures waiting at each edge.

1. Australia – 25,760 km (16,007 miles)

Australia’s coastline touches three different oceans: the Pacific, Indian, and Southern. Known for its iconic beaches such as Bondi and the Great Barrier Reef, Australia attracts millions of tourists every year. Whether you’re into surfing, snorkeling, or exploring remote coastal towns, Australia’s shores offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

• Travel Tips: Australia is perfect for beach lovers, diving enthusiasts, and nature explorers. Don’t miss the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vast beaches of Western Australia.

2. Canada – 202,080 km (125,567 miles)

Canada is home to the longest coastline in the world, spanning the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic Oceans. Its coastline includes remote Arctic inlets, the rocky shores of British Columbia, and sandy beaches in Prince Edward Island. The sheer length of the coastline means there are countless unspoiled areas to explore.

• Travel Tips: Canada’s coastline offers a range of activities from whale watching in the Atlantic to hiking in the Pacific coastal regions. The remote nature of many coastal areas makes it ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure. Cities like Vancouver, Halifax, and St. John’s offer vibrant cultural experiences along the coast.

3. Indonesia – 58,133 km (36,122 miles)

Indonesia’s vast archipelago comprises over 17,000 islands, contributing to its impressive coastline. The country’s shores offer a variety of landscapes, from white sandy beaches to volcanic cliffs. Indonesia’s coastline is also home to thriving coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a hotspot for diving and water sports.

• Travel Tips: Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are popular for their stunning beaches and vibrant cultural scene. Indonesia’s many islands offer an unmatched diversity of ecosystems, from rainforests to pristine coastlines.

4. Japan – 29,751 km (18,486 miles)

Japan, made up of over 6,800 islands, boasts a coastline that varies from tropical beaches to rugged cliffs. Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama thrive along its shores, and fishing is a significant industry. The coastlines of Okinawa and Hokkaido are some of the country’s most breathtaking regions. Japan’s seascapes, along with its rich cultural heritage, make it an enticing destination.

• Travel Tips: Japan’s coastal destinations are diverse. You can visit the tropical islands of Okinawa for a beach holiday or explore the scenic cliffs of Hokkaido. Be sure to try fresh seafood, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

5. Norway – 99,083 km (61,567 miles)

Norway is renowned for its spectacular fjords and northern coastline, which stretches along the North Atlantic and Barents Sea. The intricate shape of the shoreline, combined with thousands of islands, makes Norway’s coast one of the longest in the world. Tourists flock to Norway for its rugged beauty and to witness the Northern Lights in the winter months.

• Travel Tips: Norway’s coastal cities such as Bergen and Tromsø are gateway cities for scenic cruises. Don’t miss the stunning fjords of the west coast, and if you’re visiting in winter, Tromsø offers one of the best views of the Northern Lights.

6. Philippines – 36,289 km (22,549 miles)

The Philippines, an archipelago with 7,641 islands, offers a unique coastline with beautiful bays, coves, and pristine beaches. Its famous islands, including Boracay and Palawan, attract visitors from around the world. The coastline is also a hub for local fishing industries and plays an integral role in the country’s economy.

• Travel Tips: Visit Boracay for its powdery white sand beaches or El Nido for its dramatic landscapes. The country’s waters are perfect for diving, offering vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

7. Russia – 37,653 km (23,396 miles)

Russia’s vast coastline stretches over the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic Oceans, offering a blend of icy shores and bustling ports. From the freezing Arctic waters to the warmer Black Sea, Russia’s coastline is diverse, with cities like St. Petersburg and Vladivostok offering cultural significance. The scale of the coastline supports major industries like fishing, oil, and trade.

• Travel Tips: St. Petersburg, known for its historical significance, offers a rich cultural experience. For a more remote adventure, head to the Arctic for a one-of-a-kind exploration. Russia’s coastlines are less commercialized, so expect fewer tourists in some areas.

Final Thoughts

These seven countries not only have some of the longest coastlines on the planet, but they also serve up a buffet of travel adventures. Are you after an adrenaline rush on a sun-soaked beach, a stroll through old-world fishing villages, or a quiet moment in untouched nature? No matter what kind of getaway you’re dreaming of, you’ll find lasting memories in each of these spectacular places.