The measurement of a country's coastline varies depending on the scale at which it is measured. Smaller-scale maps yield a lower value of coastline measurement than larger-scale maps. When discussing scale, this refers to point-to-point connections made along a given country's coastline, suitable for snorkelling beaches in Asia, which are then summed to provide the total coastline length. The discrepancies above are examples of fractal behaviour since the bigger the scale of a map is, the more frequent the indentations visible on a coastline and therefore the greater the measured length and breadth of the coastline.
Hence, when the countries are compared based on their coastline measurement, all information is taken from measurements that are made on maps of identical scale.
There is no doubt that coastlines are one of the most famous destinations around the world. From sandy beaches to rocky coastal cliffs, the beauty of the ocean colliding with the shore is something that can't be overstated while you are travelling to Asian beaches. While there are various destinations for ocean lovers all around the world, there is no denying that some countries have more to offer than others. When it comes to measurements, these 10 countries have the most coastline in the world: Tourist town hotspots, inaccessible frozen wasteland, and everything in between. Whether travellers are looking to snorkel over coral reefs or sunbathe on beaches in Asia, hike alongside crashing waves, or explore a bustling oceanside downtown, these ten coastline countries promise to deliver.
The countries listed below have some of the longest total coastlines in the world. Coastlines with extensive coastlines boast unparalleled access to marine resources, stunning top beach destinations in Asia, and opportunities for tourism and trade. From the icy waters of the Arctic to tropical paradises and rugged fjords, these coastlines showcase the beauty and diversity of our planet.
1. China- 14,500 km/9,009 Miles
China boasts a 14,500 km coastal stretch, making it the 10th longest shoreline in the world. The country flaunts some of the best beaches in Asia. The country has territorial claims in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, and the Yellow Sea. The coastline stretches from the Gulf of Tonkin to the Bohai Gulf in a northward direction. The southern part of the coastline is more irregular than the northern part. The latter is mostly low lying, but in certain regions, mountains and hills start from the coast, which should be included in your Asia beach travel guide. The southern part is dotted with river deltas, mountains and hills that begin from the coast.
- Miles of Coastlines in China- 9009 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in China- Shanghai, Xiamen, Dalian, Qingdao, Sanya, Hangzhou
- Popular Coastal Attractions in China include Disneyland Shanghai, The Bund, Dalian South East Coastal Trail, and Dalian Jinshitan Beach, considered one of the best Asian beaches for vacation.
2. Malaysia – 4,675 Km / 2,905 Miles
Stretching 4,675 km (2,905 miles) along the South China Sea, the Straits of Malacca, and the Sulu & Celebes Seas, Malaysia’s coastline is a captivating mix of tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, and culturally rich coastal towns. Peninsular Malaysia offers palm-lined shores, lively islands, and UNESCO heritage ports like George Town, while East Malaysia on Borneo Island showcases wild, untouched stretches and incredible marine biodiversity. The country is a haven for divers and snorkelling beaches in Asia, with thriving coral reefs in the Perhentian Islands and Sipadan. From luxury resorts in Langkawi to the rustic charm of fishing villages, Malaysia’s coastlines offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With golden sands, turquoise waters, and a vibrant food scene, Malaysia is a paradise for beach lovers and explorers alike.
- Miles of Coastline in Malaysia: 2,905 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in Malaysia: George Town (Penang), Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Terengganu, Miri, Kuching
- Popular Coastal Attractions in Malaysia: Langkawi, Perhentian Islands, Tioman Island, Sipadan Island, Tanjung Aru Beach
3. India- 7516 km/4671 miles
The huge 7,516 km (4,671 mi) Indian coastline extends to the Arabian Sea. You will find some of the best beaches in Asia, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, as they provide an incredible selection of coastal experiences. Goan beaches are famous for their lively atmosphere and water sports, while Kerala's cool, calm waters offer a serene experience. Tamil Nadu’s Marina Beach is among the world’s longest, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast pristine white sands and coral reefs, making it best for travelling to Asian beaches. Coastal cities like Mumbai and Kochi mix modern vibes with historical charm. From sunbathing and surfing to exploring fishing villages and temples, India’s coastline caters to every traveller’s taste and sense of adventure. Lakshadweep’s coastline features pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and rich coral reefs, offering idyllic tropical beauty and marine biodiversity.
- Miles of Coastlines in India- 4671 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in India- Goa, Kochi, Chennai, Mumbai, Vishakapatnam.
- Popular Coastal Attractions in India - Goa Beaches, Marina Beach Chennai, Kerala Beachwaters, and Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman Islands are some of the beautiful beaches in Asia that are worth exploring.
4. Maldives- 644 Km/400Miles
The Maldives, with top beach sites in Asia, claims 644 km (400 mi) of the old coastline, making it an island nation with unique tropical beauty. Compared to over 1000 islands and atolls, the powdery white sand attracts visitors, while the turquoise lagoon and lively coral reefs are particularly appealing to divers and honeymooners. Cool, warm water is perfect for Asia, diving and snorkelling beaches in overwater villas. Holidays on private islands offer a unique and luxurious experience, providing cultural insight into islands like Mafushi. Known for its bioluminescent beaches, abundant marine life, and year-round sunny weather, the Maldives' beaches with clear water are a paradise for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence in an exotic setting.
- Miles of Coastlines in the Maldives- 400 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in the Maldives- Male, Addu City, Fuvahmulah.
- Popular Coastal Attractions in the Maldives- Banana Reef, Maafushi Island, Vaadhoo Island, Ari Atoll.
5. Japan- 29,751 Km/18,486 Miles
Japan, with quiet beaches in Asia for sunbathing, is a heavily populated and technologically advanced island nation off the coast of East Asia. It is lying to the east of the Sea of Japan between the Sea of Okhotsk in the north and the East China Sea in the south. The country has a 29,751 km long coastline forming the boundaries of its 6852 islands. Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu are the biggest and most economically prominent islands of the nation, home to romantic beaches in Asia for couples. The northern and western coasts of Honshu and the coastline of Hokkaido are relatively straight, mirroring the shapes of their respective islands. Meanwhile, the age of tides and storms creates significant irregularities in the shoreline of Kyushu and eastern Honshu. Most of Japan's major urban centres are built along the country's coastline, which also houses some of the biggest international ports, making it one of the affordable beach destinations in Southeast Asia. Fishing, aquaculture, whaling, and beach tourism are some of the major occupations supporting the livelihoods of the populations based along Japan's coastlines.
- Miles of Coastline in Japan- 18,486 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in Japan- Tokyo, Osaka, Kamakura, Sendai, Hiroshima
- Popular Coastal Attractions in Japan- Okinawa Island, Jodogahama Beach, Hitachi Seaside Park, Tottori Sand Dunes, Odaiba Beach
6. Philippines- 36,289 Km/22,549 Miles
The Philippines consists of approximately 7100 islands with family-friendly beaches in Asia, together creating over 22,500 miles of coastline to explore. The capital, Manila, is a prime coastal destination in the Philippines, but there are several other scenic towns to explore along the coast. Visitors to the coast of the Philippines will be impressed by the sheer biodiversity of the shores and waters, which range from sandy beaches to mangrove forests to colourful coral reefs, making the top beaches in the Philippines ideal for swimming. With such a wide variety of locations in one country, compromises are never a worry when visiting the Philippines. A large number of Filipinos depend on coastal fisheries for their livelihoods. About 40-60% of the total fish catch of the country is based on the coastal fishing activities. The arresting beauty of the Philippines' shores also draws thousands of tourists to the country, economically benefiting the nation in turn via its safest beaches in Asia for good swimming.
- Miles of Coastline in the Philippines- 22,548 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in the Philippines- Manila, Boracay, Cebu City, El Nido, Vigan
- Popular Coastal Attractions in the Philippines- Manila Ocean Park, Tubbataha Reef, Banacon Island Mangrove Forest, Puerto Galera, Coron
7. Russia- 37,653 Km/23,396 Miles
Russia is the biggest country in the world by land area, and with that distinction comes nearly 23,400 miles of coast to explore and some of the top tropical beaches in Asia. One of the unique aspects of the Russian coastline is that it represents over 50% of the Arctic coast. In the more hospitable regions of the Russian coast, visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and even surfing in the Siberian waters near Kamchatka. Despite its northern position, Russia also boasts several popular Asian beaches for vacation, including Riviera Beach, the black sand Kahalaktyrski Beach, and Repino Beach. A large proportion of the country's population is settled along the coastline, with several major Russian cities, including St Petersburg, Vladivostok, Yalta, Magadan, Kaliningrad, Baltiysk, and others, located along the country's shores.
- Miles of Coastline in Russia- 23,396 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in Russia- Sochi, Novorossiysk, Derbent, and Kaliningrad must be included in your Asia beach travel guide.
- Popular Coastal Attractions in Russia- Khalaktyrsky Beach, Kamchatka Riviera Beach, Repini Beach, and Kizhi Island.
8. Indonesia- 58,133 Km/36,122 Miles
Although not among the top ten countries by total land area, Indonesia's large number of islands earns it the third spot globally in terms of coastline length, boasting some of Asia's best beaches for swimming. The coastlines of the country are approximately 99,083 km long, and the areas along the Indonesian coasts exhibit varying patterns of landscapes influenced by natural factors and human intervention alike. Mangrove forests grow extensively along the shores of Kalimantan, Papua and northeastern Sumatra. Prawn cultivation, meanwhile, is common along the coast of northern Java and southwestern Sulawesi, home to top beach destinations in Asia. The most picturesque coastal areas of Indonesia, which are also the country's most popular tourist destinations, occur along the smaller islands in eastern Indonesia, the southern portions of Java and Sumatra Island.
- Miles of Coastline in Indonesia- 33,998 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in Indonesia - Jakarta, Padang, Senggigi Beach, and Makassar boast some of the best snorkelling beaches in Asia.
- Popular Coastal Attractions in Indonesia- Komodo National Park, Pink beach, Komodo Island, Nusa Dua beach, Bali, Trikora Beach, Bintan
9. Sri Lanka- 1340Km/833Miles
Sri Lanka’s 1,340 km (833 miles) of coastline, featuring beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise waters, is a treasure trove of golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and breathtaking natural beauty. Along the south coast, places like Mirissa and Unawatuna offer idyllic swimming spots and whale watching. Arugam Bay of the East Coast is a world-class surf target, while the colonial fort of the breeze in the bay blends the story with The Ideas of the Sea. One of Asia's hidden beaches in Asia, perfect for diving and watching the sunset, is located in Trinomli, Sjølivet. The coastal regions on the island are home to fishing villages, seafood markets, and cultural places, making them a suitable destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration in a tropical, culturally rich environment.
- Miles of Coastline in Sri Lanka- 833 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in Sri Lanka- Galle, Trincomalee, Negombo, Bentota, and Mirissa have some of the top tropical beaches in Asia.
- Popular Attractions in Sri Lanka- Unawatuna Beach, Arugam Bay, Galle Fort, Mirissa.
10. Thailand- 3219 Km/2000 Miles
The 3,219 km coast of Thailand is spread across the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Thailand, which offers a polymorphic of tropical beaches in Asia, limestone and lively islands. Phuket and Krabi attracted visitors with their prestigious white sand and turquoise water, while Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi offered island-hopping adventures. The dramatic karsts of Phang Nga Bay create postcard-perfect scenery. Pattaya and Hua Hin combine coastal charm with nightlife and shopping, and the best beaches in Thailand for snorkelling. Whether it’s diving in crystal-clear waters, rock climbing at Railay Beach, or relaxing in secluded coves, Thailand’s coastline delivers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and vibrant seaside energy.
- Miles of Coastline in Thailand- 2000 miles
- Best Coastal Cities to Visit in Thailand- Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui.
- Popular Coastal Attractions in Thailand- Railay Beach, Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Bay, Patong Beach, Phuket, with top beach destinations in Asia.
Final Takeaway
The world's longest coastline presents diverse scenarios, vibrant cultures, and unique ecosystems in the best beaches in Asia. From the rugged coasts in Canada to the golden beaches of Australia, the beaches in each country offer natural beauty and endless exploration. These coasts are more than borders; they are gateways to adventure, trade and heritage, shaping the nations they embrace with the Asia beach travel guide.