By default the website builder uses open source maps on the pages of your website. If you prefer to use Google maps, you need an API key to load your maps on your website. An API key is a code that is used by Google to track how often the map on your website is viewed.
You will need a Google Account in order to get the API key. Sign in if you already have an account or Sign up to get you started. Beginning on June 11, 2018, Google requires you to enable billing with a credit card to have a valid API key. For more information on using Google maps on your website please see Google’s User Guide.
Once you have an API Key you will need to save the API Key in the Settings of your Website Builder.
- Click Advanced Settings.
- Click Google Maps.
- Paste the Google Maps API Key in the provided field.
- Click Save.
- Click Publish Changes.
You should see your map on the Home, Contact Us and Attractions pages. If your API key is invalid or has stopped working, the Google maps will not load on your published website. If your leave the Google Maps API Key field blank, your website will use the default open source maps.
Details on how to get a Google API key
Note: The following are instructions are provided only as a guide to obtaining an API from Google and we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of these instructions due to constant changes on the side of Google. Should you experience difficulties in obtaining an API Key it is recommended you use Google’s User Guide for further assistance.
Get the API key from Google
- Go to https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/javascript/get-api-key#get-an-api-key.
- Click GET A KEY.
- Select Maps and click Continue from the next screen
- In the Enable Google Maps Platform window, enter a project name (optional) then select Yes.
- Click NEXT.
- Select Create Billing Account from the next screen
- Select the appropriate country, and then select Yes for the Terms of Service
- Click Agree and Continue
- Check all details are correct, and enter a payment method before selecting Start My Free Trial
- From the new page, select Create and on the Enable Google Maps Platform pop up window, press Next
- Google will now display your API Key.
Note: You must first secure your key before you save the newly created API key in your Website Builder.
The key created is not restricted. Key restriction lets you specify which websites, IP address or apps can use this key to prevent unauthorised use and quote theft.
- In the same window where your API key is displayed, click API Console. This will take you to the Credentials page.
- Under Key Restrictions, select HTTP referrers (websites).
- Enter your domain in the provided field.
- Click Save.
Warning: You must have a Google account with billing enabled to generate a key for Google Maps API.
Source: Google Cloud