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For one business address, add a Google Maps embed to a WordPress page. For several branches customers can search, use a store-locator plugin or build a custom locator. If you choose a Google-backed plugin or custom map, you will generally need a Google Maps Platform API key, the APIs required by that implementation, and a billing account. The steps below cover each option and how to avoid common key and billing problems.
Choose between a map and a store locator
A map embed shows a location and lets visitors interact with the map and request directions. It is a good fit for a single shop or office. A store locator is designed for multiple locations and may provide a searchable directory, nearby-location search, filters, or other location details. Choose based on what visitors need to do, not simply on whether you want a Google map.
- One address: Use Google’s Maps Embed API to generate an iframe.
- Several locations with search or directory features: Use a WordPress store-locator plugin, or commission a custom JavaScript implementation.
Google’s overview of these approaches is in Build a store locator with Google Maps Platform.
Add a Google map for one location
Google’s Embed API quick start lets you find a location and generate code for an interactive map. The resulting map can include a directions button. This embeds a map; it does not create a searchable, multi-branch directory.
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- Open Google’s Maps Embed API quick start and follow its steps to find the business location and generate the embed code.
- In WordPress, open the page where the map should appear.
- Add a Custom HTML block and paste the generated iframe code.
- Preview the page on desktop and mobile, then publish or update it.
Google notes that an API key may be needed for this method. Follow the current Embed API instructions for key and project setup rather than assuming that an iframe is exempt from Google’s requirements.
Add a multi-location locator with a plugin
A plugin is the most direct route to a locator without writing custom JavaScript. Compare the plugin’s location-management and visitor features, its map-provider choices, insertion method, and the APIs it requires. The WordPress.org listings document two options; this is not a hands-on performance or usability ranking.
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WP Store Locator
- Install and activate WP Store Locator from the WordPress Plugins screen, or upload its plugin folder.
- Complete its onboarding and select a map service.
- If you select Google Maps, enter and validate your Google API key in the plugin’s API settings. The listing says its OpenStreetMap option does not require a Google API key.
- Set the map’s starting location and add each store’s information.
- Edit the page where the locator should appear and add the Store Locator block, or insert the
[wpsl]shortcode.
See the current WP Store Locator listing for its documented setup and features.
WP Go Maps
With WP Go Maps, create a map, add markers, enable the Store Locator setting in the map editor, and insert the map on a page using the shortcode or block provided by the plugin. Its listing says a Google Maps key is required when that engine is selected and describes alternative map engines. Check the WP Go Maps listing for its current instructions and feature details.
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Set up a Google Maps Platform API key
A Google-backed WordPress plugin uses a key to authenticate requests and associate usage with a Google Cloud project. Google’s WordPress guidance describes creating a Cloud account if needed, creating a project, enabling the relevant Maps Platform APIs, and generating a key. Its Quick Start Widget can help guide setup. Start with the plugin’s own requirements: Maps JavaScript API, Places API, and Directions API are common examples, not a universal list of APIs every locator must enable.
- Create or select a Google Cloud project and attach a billing account.
- Enable only the APIs required by the plugin’s Google Maps features. Check the plugin’s documentation for the exact list.
- Create an API key and enter it in the plugin’s designated settings. If Google’s Quick Start Widget is available to you, it can guide setup.
- Restrict the key to the intended use and website. For client-side Maps JavaScript API use, Google recommends an HTTP referrer restriction; IP-address restrictions are intended for server-side web services.
- Check the live Google Maps Platform pricing and calculator and set appropriate quotas or caps before launch.
Google’s Maps Platform for WordPress Users FAQ explains common plugin APIs and account setup. Google says Maps Platform charges per billable event, with cost varying by SKU; each SKU has its own free monthly usage amount. There is no single universal locator price: your bill depends on which APIs and features are used and the volume of billable requests. Consult the current pricing page for your expected use rather than relying on a fixed estimate.
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Build a custom locator when a plugin is not enough
A custom JavaScript locator can provide behavior or presentation that available plugins do not offer, but it requires someone to implement and maintain the code. Google’s store-locator guide links to a codelab and sample code; the sample includes a placeholder API key that must be replaced as instructed. Follow Google’s current store locator guide and its linked implementation resources.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot a map or locator that does not load
Check these items in order if the map is blank, shows an error, or stops returning results:
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- Required API: Confirm that the APIs the plugin or custom code actually uses are enabled in the correct Cloud project.
- Billing: Verify that the project has an active billing account attached.
- Key and restriction: Check that the key entered in WordPress is valid and that its restrictions allow requests from the site’s domain. For client-side Maps JavaScript API requests, use the appropriate HTTP referrer restriction.
- Quota or cap: Review usage and limits in Google Cloud. A quota or self-imposed cap can prevent further requests.
- Plugin configuration: Confirm the selected map provider, starting location, store records, and shortcode or block placement. An OpenStreetMap configuration, for example, should not be treated as if it needs a Google key.
Google’s WordPress FAQ and Maps Platform billing FAQ explain key restrictions and billing behavior.
Choose the setup that fits your locations
For a single address, an Embed API iframe is usually the simplest option. For a directory of branches, choose a plugin if its search, map-provider, and insertion features fit your needs; use custom JavaScript only when you need behavior a plugin does not provide and can maintain the implementation. Before publishing a Google-backed map, confirm the required APIs, restrict the key, and check the live pricing for your expected usage.
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