Top 10 Longest Sea Bridges in the World

Bridges hold a profound significance for humanity. Beyond being mere symbols of connection, they have played a critical role in the development of civilizations. Today, bridges are not only vital for transportation and economic growth but also captivate millions of visitors each year with their innovative designs. Many bridges have become iconic landmarks, perfect for sightseeing and photography. Let’s take a journey with The Broad Life to explore some of the longest sea bridges in existence!

1. Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge

Currently holding the title of the world’s longest sea bridge, the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB) was completed in 2018. Spanning approximately 55 kilometers, it is nearly 20 times the length of the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA. The structure features three cable-stayed sections, two artificial islands covering 100,000 m² each, and a 6.7 km underwater tunnel. Designed to endure earthquakes up to magnitude 8 and typhoons reaching level 16, the bridge can even withstand impacts from massive cargo ships.

Construction of this engineering marvel required around 1.08 million cubic meters of concrete and 400,000 tons of steel—enough material to build 60 Eiffel Towers, and 4.5 times the resources used for the Golden Gate Bridge.

2. Jiaozhou Bay Bridge – Qingdao, China

Stretching 41.58 kilometers with six lanes, Jiaozhou Bay Bridge was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2012 as the longest sea-crossing bridge by total length. The bridge rests on 5,200 pillars and contains 450,000 tons of steel, making it capable of withstanding magnitude 8 earthquakes.

3. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway – Louisiana, USA

Spanning 38.44 kilometers across Lake Pontchartrain, this bridge connects Metairie with St. Tammany Parish. In 1969, Guinness World Records named it the longest continuous bridge over water. It not only eases transportation in the area but also serves as a notable tourist attraction.

4. Donghai Bridge – Zhoushan, China

Completed in 2005, Donghai Bridge is China’s first sea-crossing bridge, stretching 32.5 kilometers with six lanes. It links Shanghai to the Yangshan deep-water port and plays a critical role in supporting China’s maritime trade.

5. King Fahd Causeway – Saudi Arabia and Bahrain

The King Fahd Causeway was built to strengthen trade and diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Opened in 1986, the 25-kilometer bridge includes four lanes and handles over 45,000 vehicles daily, connecting the two nations efficiently.

6. Vasco Da Gama Bridge – Lisbon, Portugal

Europe’s longest bridge, the Vasco Da Gama Bridge, stretches over 17 kilometers. Named after the famous explorer, this structure cost about one billion USD and provides a vital traffic route linking the northern and southern regions of Portugal.

7. San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge – Oakland, USA

Opened in 1936, this bridge extends more than 13.4 kilometers, connecting San Francisco and Oakland. Its tallest tower reaches 160 meters, illuminated every night with a spectacular display of lights.

8. Seven Mile Bridge – Florida, USA

A key part of the Overseas Highway, the Seven Mile Bridge connects Florida over the Gulf of Mexico. Finished in 1982, this 10-kilometer bridge offers breathtaking ocean vistas, making it a remarkable site in addition to its functional purpose.

9. Øresund Bridge – Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmö, Sweden

Crossing the Øresund Strait, this structure combines an 8-kilometer cable-stayed bridge with a 4-kilometer underwater tunnel. Designed by George K.S. Rotne, it connects Denmark and Sweden, appearing as a floating marvel in the middle of the sea when viewed from above.

10. Mackinac Bridge – Michigan, USA

One of America’s most famous bridges, Mackinac Bridge spans 8 kilometers, ranking as the third-longest suspension bridge in the US and the second-longest suspension span in North America. Beyond supporting freight transport, it attracts photographers and travelers from around the world.

Extra: Golden Gate Bridge – California, USA

Although surpassed by HZMB, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was once among the world’s ten longest sea bridges. Inaugurated in 1937 and extending over 2.7 kilometers, it is built with steel weighing over 80 tons. Its distinctive architecture makes it an enduring symbol of the city and a magnet for millions of tourists each year.