You can also find out more about us on our website. glacier-fringed Archipelagos and palm-lined Atolls islands Come in every shape and size imaginable. When it comes to the sheer number, not all countries are equal. The countries that are at the top of this list don’t just have lots of islands. tropical destinations The following are some examples of how to use volcanic chainsThey are often areas where thousands of distinct landmasses have been created by inland lakes, coastlines laced with fjords, or geological fragmentation.
This raises an incredibly simple question: Which countries have the largest number of islands? It depends on not only geography but also how an island is defined. Others have stricter criteria for the minimum size of landmasses or length of coastline. Satellite mapping has also led to a jump in numbers in recent years as previously unknown islets have been added to official tallies. There are no standard methods for counting islands in different countries, but the best available data can be used to compare.
How data is compiled
This list is based on figures published by WorldAtlas, which aggregates data at the national level from mapping authorities and statistical bureaus. Each country defines and counts islands according to its own criteria. Some countries include any landmass, no matter how large, that is surrounded at high tide by water. Other countries impose thresholds depending on coastline or area.
As an example Sweden Any landmass greater than 270 square foot is considered an island. Japan’s Recount 2023 only considered those countries with a coast of at least 330 foot. Modern mapping tools also have changed the picture. Higher-resolution satellite images have led to major revisions of some countries’ official figures.
The figures are inclusive of all islands, inhabited or uninhabited. Artificial islands, offshore rocks formations, and sandy banks that disappear during high tide are excluded.
Source
This ranking is based on the main source of information, which is WorldAtlas (2020)Cross-referenced to 2025 updates World Population Review. These datasets represent the most widely cited, and fairly consistent island counts. The numbers are drawn from official land surveys and national records.
