TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - While commonly defined as a landmass surrounded by water, the word "island" takes on different meanings across the globe. Some countries count every tiny speck of land that rises above the sea, and others apply more rigid criteria.
So, what country has the most islands? Beyond the dreamy archipelagos of tropical getaways, a few nations are home to an astonishing number of individual landforms, each shaped by unique geological forces.
What Country Has the Most Islands?
World Population Review, Statista, and Conde Nast Traveler all named Sweden, Norway, and Finland as the top three countries that have the most islands. Read on to discover other contenders below.
1. Sweden, 267,570 islands
With more than 260 thousands of landmasses, Sweden holds the global ranking for the most islands. Beneath this significant number, only about 24,000 of these islands are accessible to the public, and just around 1,000 are actually inhabited. From the Stockholm Archipelago Trail to the country’s extensive green spaces, Sweden has an unbeatable natural landscape.
2. Norway, 239,057 islands
A Scandinavian gem, Norway is attributed to the second-largest number of islands in the world. Beyond the tourist magnet Lofoten Islands, Norway is brimming with wonderfully crafted landscapes shaped by extraordinary fjord-lined coast and snow-capped mountains. Remarkably, despite its vast island count, only a small fraction of these pristine landmasses have ever been developed or inhabited.
3. Finland, 178,947 islands
One of the world’s least corrupt countries, Finland ranks third on the list. Stretching from southwestern Finland to the heart of the Baltic Sea, these countless islands have carved a special place in the hearts of travelers. Among them, Helsinki stands out as a timeless favorite, captivating visitors who come to soak in the city’s charm and immerse themselves in Finland’s enchanting holiday atmosphere.
4. Canada, 52,455 islands
Canada’s territory comprises both inhabited and uninhabited islands, many of which remain off-limits to the public, just like in several other nations. Yet, the country still offers plenty of welcoming corners for visitors. Cities across Canada embrace tourism, with British Columbia standing out for its unique ride-share initiative, where friendly locals volunteer to give travelers complimentary lifts.
5. United States, 18,617 islands
A constitution-based federal republic, the United States is evidently among the countries that have the most islands. Atop of its incredible 50 states, America has the strong grip of thousands of islets throughout its territory. From tropical havens in Florida Keys and rugged satellites in the Pacific Northwest, to Alaskan landmasses, these islands are both massive in size and influence.
6. Indonesia, 17,504 islands
Universally renowned as Nusantara which translates to an archipelago sprawled between two oceans and two continents, Indonesia boasts an astonishing number of islands. As if living up to its tropical paradise vanity, the country dazzles with dramatic natural scenery, sun-kissed weather, rich cultural traditions, and mouthwatering cuisine. Yet beyond its postcard-perfect appeal, Indonesia is also home to some of the world’s most populous islands, including Java, Sumatra and Borneo.
7. Japan, 14,125 islands
As a global travel hub, Japan is truly full of wonders. After gaining even more islets under their radar in 2023, the country officially climbed to the top ten ranking. Among Japan’s most iconic islands, Honshu acts as the beating heart of the nation—home to major powerhouses like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
8. Australia, 8,222 islands
At 8,222 scale, Australia is mentioned on the list, comprising islet groups of Tasmania, Torres Strait, and many more. The incredible balmy weather makes Australia an exceptional solo travel destination for people of all walks. Throughout the year, the kangaroo homeland welcomes thousands of tourists to its beautiful abodes of Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and many more iconic cities.
9. Philippines, 7,641 islands
Much like its Southeast Asian neighbor Indonesia, the Philippines has seen a remarkable rise in population over the years. This dynamic growth is most evident in Luzon, the country's largest and most vibrant island, where over half of the nation’s people live, work, and thrive amid its buzzing cities and cultural heartbeat.
10. Chile, 5,000 islands
Chile rounds out the list of the countries that have the most islands. Beneath its vibrant culture lies thousands of hidden islets across the Pacific coast. When it comes to island-lives, the Patagonian islands become the top pick to experience fresh seafood, and wildlife sightings.
From the frozen fjords of Norway to the tropical allure of Indonesia and the remote wilderness of Canada, the countries with the most islands reveal just how diverse and fascinating our planet truly is.
Editor's Choice: 10 Best Islands in Asia to Visit: Bali, Koh Samui, and More
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