The setting of Safe Haven is in Southport, North Carolina. It is on the coast and it is also near the Cape Fear River which is popular for boating and fishing. The story takes place in the present day United States. In the book they go fishing, and boating. One of the characters, Alex owns a convenience store/gas station for the boats. The convenience store is a place used often in the story. The setting also effects the type of activities they do, like going to the beach.