South Haven, Coastal resort city in Van Buren County, Michigan, United States.
South Haven lies at the mouth of the Black River where it meets Lake Michigan, with sandy shores and a recreational harbor for boating. The town spreads along the coastline with natural water areas and developed waterfront spaces for visitors.
The city was incorporated in 1869 and developed from a settlement into a maritime port and later a vacation destination in the Midwest. Waterways and shipping shaped its economy and gradually attracted travelers.
The Michigan Maritime Museum displays nautical artifacts from the region and presents historical ships, including the reconstructed tall ship Friends Good Will. This collection tells the story of water's importance to the town's growth.
The Kal-Haven Trail connects the town to Kalamazoo over 34 miles and is popular with cyclists in summer and snowmobilers in winter. Plan your visit with the season in mind if you want to use the trail.
The Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum preserves the birthplace of a renowned botanist who transformed agricultural science. His work changed how people understand plants and farming.
Location: Van Buren County
Inception: 1869
Elevation above the sea: 187 m
Website: http://south-haven.com
GPS coordinates: 42.40306,-86.27361
Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:59
Van Buren State Park
6.5 km
South Haven Light
1.2 km
Michigan Maritime Museum
401 m
North Point Park
7 kmNichols Covered Bridge
2.5 km
Liberty Hyde Bailey Birthplace
1.5 km
Dyckman Beach
758 m
Bailey Museum
1.5 km
Dyckman Park
96 m
Fideland Fun Park
5.4 km
North Beach
732 mStanley Johnson Park
629 m
South Beach
872 m
Dyckman Bridge
395 m
Woodman Beach
735 m
South Haven Memorial Library
215 mPilgrim Haven Natural Area
5.8 km
Scott Club Historical Marker
344 m
Scott Club
331 mBlack River Preserve
5.2 kmBeeches Golf Club
6.7 kmSouth Haven Golf Club
5.6 kmBeach and natural area
6 kmFoundry Hall
118 mWoodman Beach
762 mDyckman Beach
825 mOak Street Beach
1.3 kmA Moment of Joy
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