Coastlines are where land meets water, the living edge of the planet. They shape weather, trade, culture, and identity. In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea), breaking down their length, oceans, and unique features. You’ll learn how each country’s geography connects it to the seas and why these coasts matter so much in today’s world.

These aren’t just measurements; each shoreline tells a story. From Canada’s icy bays to Indonesia’s coral islands, every coast reveals how nature and people coexist.

Quick Overview: Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea)

Rank	Country	Ocean(s) / Sea(s) Bordering	Coastline Length (km)	Key Highlight
1	Canada	Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic	202,080	World’s longest coastline
2	Norway	Atlantic, Barents, Arctic	83,281	Deep fjords and thousands of islands
3	Indonesia	Indian, Pacific	54,716	Archipelago of over 17,000 islands
4	Greenland	Arctic, North Atlantic	44,087	Ice-covered, remote coasts
5	Russia	Arctic, Pacific, Baltic, Black	37,653	Multi-ocean access
6	Philippines	Pacific, South China Sea	36,289	Tropical islands and reefs
7	Japan	Pacific, East China, Sea of Japan	29,751	Island chain with modern ports
8	Australia	Indian, Pacific, Southern	25,760	Surrounded entirely by water
9	United States	Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic, Gulf	19,924	Four major coastal fronts
10	New Zealand	Pacific, Tasman Sea	15,134	Rugged cliffs and fjords

Why These Are the Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea)?

These ten nations have coastlines that define not just their geography but also their economies and identities. They are global leaders in trade, fishing, tourism, and marine science. Each borders major oceans or seas that influence their climates and lifestyles. A coastline’s length depends on how detailed the measurement is, because coasts twist and turn. But whether icy, sandy, rocky, or tropical, these shorelines rank highest by total distance and diversity.

1. Canada – Why Canada’s Coastline Dominates Three Oceans

Canada tops the Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea) with a staggering 202,080 km of shoreline. It borders three major oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic. This triple-ocean connection makes Canada the most coastal country on Earth. Its eastern coast features rocky bays and cold waters of the Atlantic, while the west has the Pacific’s fjords and temperate rainforests. The Arctic coast, remote and icy, represents one of the planet’s last pristine marine frontiers.

Key Coastal Features of Canada

• Three oceanic fronts: Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic
• Includes over 52,000 islands and inlets
• Home to Hudson Bay - one of the world’s largest inland seas
• Vital to global shipping routes and fisheries
• Coastal wildlife includes seals, whales, and seabirds

2. Norway – Exploring the Fjord-Rich Coastline of Northern Europe

Norway’s rugged, indented shoreline makes it second in the Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea). It stretches 83,281 km, bordering the North Atlantic, Arctic, and Barents Sea. Norway’s coast is defined by dramatic fjords, deep valleys carved by glaciers that now fill with seawater. The endless chain of islands and peninsulas makes Norway’s coastline long and intricate despite its small size.

Key Coastal Features of Norway

• Thousands of fjords like Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord
• Maritime culture built on fishing and sea trade
• Mild coastal climate due to the Gulf Stream
• Key cities such as Bergen and Oslo sit on the shore
• Perfect for scenic cruises and eco-tourism

3. Indonesia – The Archipelago Nation Between Two Oceans

Indonesia’s coastlines weave between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, covering about 54,716 km. As an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, its shoreline ranks among the most biologically diverse on Earth. The tropical waters support coral reefs, mangroves, and countless marine species. Indonesia’s coastal cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya drive its economy through trade, fishing, and tourism.

Key Coastal Features of Indonesia

• Warm tropical climate with coral reef systems
• Rich biodiversity - home to over 3,000 fish species
• Strong maritime culture and island tourism
• Coastal challenges include erosion and rising sea levels
• Key beaches: Bali, Lombok, and Sulawesi

4. Greenland – The Frozen Frontier of the Arctic Oceans

Greenland, though sparsely populated, has one of the longest coasts, about 44,087 km. It borders the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic, creating a landscape dominated by glaciers, fjords, and icebergs. Its coastline is mostly uninhabited, but the melting of Arctic ice has opened new navigation routes. The rugged beauty of Greenland’s shores attracts explorers and scientists studying the effects of climate change.

Key Coastal Features of Greenland

• Fjords surrounded by icy cliffs and glaciers
• Minimal human population - vast untouched coasts
• Iceberg formation along the western shore
• Seasonal ice melts affect global sea levels
• A key location for Arctic marine research

5. Russia – The Coastline Spanning Continents and Climates

Russia’s coastline, about 37,653 km long, touches multiple seas and oceans: the Arctic, Pacific, Baltic, and Black Sea. It’s one of the few countries with such varied marine borders. The Arctic coast remains frozen most of the year, while the Pacific edge supports major ports like Vladivostok. In the west, the Baltic and Black Sea shores link Russia to Europe and the Mediterranean.

Key Coastal Features of Russia

• Spans 13 seas across 3 oceans
• Rich in oil, gas, and fisheries resources
• Arctic coastline is opening to new shipping routes
• Key cities: St. Petersburg, Murmansk, Vladivostok
• Experiences climates from polar to temperate

6. Philippines – Tropical Coastlines Across 7,000 Islands

The Philippines ranks sixth in the Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea) with 36,289 km of shoreline along the Pacific Ocean and South China Sea. This archipelago is made up of more than 7,000 islands, each surrounded by beaches, coral reefs, and bays. Coastal areas drive tourism, agriculture, and fishing vital to the nation’s livelihood.

Key Coastal Features of Philippines

• White-sand beaches and coral reefs
• Major coastal cities: Manila, Cebu, Davao
• Prone to typhoons and rising sea threats
• Famous dive spots like Palawan and Boracay
• Over 60% of the population lives near the coast

7. Japan – Advanced Nation with a Historic Maritime Identity

Japan’s 29,751 km coastline faces the Pacific Ocean, Sea of Japan, and East China Sea. As an island chain of over 6,800 islands, Japan’s shorelines are both scenic and economically vital. From Tokyo Bay’s ports to the cliffs of Hokkaido, the coast is central to Japanese culture and trade. Fishing, shipbuilding, and sea transport all rely on its marine geography.

Key Coastal Features of Japan

• Coastal industries form a major economic base
• Mix of sandy beaches and volcanic cliffs
• Advanced coastal management against tsunamis
• Major ports include Tokyo, Kobe, Yokohama
• Rich seafood and aquaculture traditions

8. Australia – The Island Continent Surrounded by Oceans

Australia’s 25,760 km coastline touches three oceans: the Indian, Pacific, and Southern. This gives it some of the world’s most famous beaches and reefs. Its shores vary from coral systems to rocky cliffs and mangrove swamps. Most Australians live within 100 km of the coast, making it vital for both lifestyle and economy.

Key Coastal Features of Australia

• Home to the Great Barrier Reef
• Thousands of beaches - Bondi, Gold Coast, Cable Beach
• Coastal cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth
• Marine parks protect whales, turtles, and reefs
• Faces challenges of coral bleaching and erosion

9. United States – A Nation with Four Distinct Coastal Fronts

The United States has about 19,924 km of coastline across four fronts: the Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic (Alaska), and Gulf of Mexico. Each coast tells a different story, from the warm beaches of Florida to the foggy cliffs of California and the icy shores of Alaska. These coasts fuel trade, tourism, and fishing on a massive scale.

Key Coastal Features of United States

• 23 states have direct coastlines
• Major ports: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Seattle
• Varied ecosystems - coral reefs, marshes, tundra
• Prone to hurricanes, floods, and erosion
• High population density in coastal zones

10. New Zealand – Scenic Shores of the South Pacific

New Zealand’s coastline, 15,134 km long, borders the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. Though smaller than others, it’s among the most stunning in the world. The coast features steep cliffs, deep fjords, and clean beaches. Marine reserves protect much of its sea life, and tourism thrives on its natural beauty and water activities.

Key Coastal Features of New Zealand

• Notable features: Fiordland, Bay of Islands, Milford Sound
• Mild maritime climate year-round
• Marine life includes dolphins, seals, and seabirds
• Coastal towns depend on fishing and tourism
• Ideal for eco-tourism and adventure travel

The Global Importance of Coastlines and Ocean Borders

Coastlines play a crucial role in shaping global development, environment, and human livelihood. Their influence stretches far beyond the water’s edge. Here’s why they matter:

• Economic lifelines: Coastlines host major ports, shipping routes, and industries that drive international trade and global markets.
• Biodiversity hotspots: They support marine life, coral reefs, mangroves, and wetlands that balance ocean ecosystems and sustain millions of species.
• Cultural connections: Coastal regions foster human settlements, traditions, and communities that rely on the sea for food, travel, and identity.
• Climate regulation: Oceans bordering coastlines absorb carbon, control temperatures, and influence global weather and rainfall patterns.
• Tourism and livelihood: From fishing to beach tourism, coastlines provide employment and attract millions of visitors annually.
• Environmental responsibility: Rising sea levels, erosion, and pollution highlight the need for coastal protection, making sustainable management a shared global duty.

FAQs on Top 10 Countries with Coastlines (By Ocean/Sea)

What country has the longest coastline?

Canada leads with 202,080 km, bordering three major oceans.

Why do island nations have longer coastlines?

Because multiple islands add up more shoreline distance.

Which countries border more than two oceans?

Canada, Russia, and Australia each touch three or more oceans.

What makes Norway’s coastline unique?

Its fjords and islands make it one of the most scenic coasts in Europe.

How does Indonesia benefit from its coastline?

It drives tourism, fishing, and global trade routes.

Why is Greenland’s coast important to science?

It helps track ice melt and climate change patterns.

Which U.S. coast is the longest?

Alaska’s Arctic and Pacific shores together form the longest stretch.

What are the main threats to these coastlines?

Erosion, sea-level rise, pollution, and tropical storms.