Introduction
When a hungry traveller lands in Málaga or a sun‑seeker wanders down a Fuengirola side street, chances are they’ll pull out their phone and search. Google’s Business Profile (GBP) is usually the first result they see. For Costa del Sol bars, cafés and B&Bs, a polished GBP isn’t optional – it’s your digital shopfront. A neglected listing can send guests straight to your competitors, while an optimised one drives bookings, trust and loyal regulars. Here’s how to make sure your profile shines.
Claim and customise your profile
If you haven’t already, the first step is claiming your listing and verifying it with Google. Once verified, fill out every field you can – the more complete your listing, the better you’ll rank. Pay particular attention to:
- NAP details: Make sure your Name, Address and Phone number (NAP) match exactly across GBP, your website and social media. Consistency helps Google trust your business.
- Business description: Describe what makes your place special and weave in locally relevant keywords and phrases. For example, highlight that you’re a “family‑run chiringuito in Marbella” or a “Dutch‑owned B&B near Nerja’s beaches.” Local Falcon recommends including keywords tied to your neighbourhood or signature dishes.
- Categories and attributes: Choose a primary category that clearly describes your business – e.g. “Bed & breakfast,” “Tapas bar” or “Café”. Then select all secondary categories that fit; they help you appear in more searches. Add attributes such as “free Wi‑Fi,” “outdoor seating,” “wheelchair accessible” or “pet‑friendly” – they show up when customers filter for specifics.
- Languages: Because Costa del Sol is international, mention that you speak English, Spanish and Dutch in your description. Multilingual descriptions help you connect with travellers who search in their own language.
Engage customers and build trust
Google doesn’t just want information; it wants interaction. The more you engage with people, the higher your local ranking and the more trustworthy you appear.
- Respond to reviews: Whether feedback is glowing or grumpy, reply quickly and professionally. Townsquare Interactive notes that replying to reviews humanises your brand and builds credibility.
- Ask for reviews: Happy guests are often willing to leave feedback – they just need a nudge. Consider adding QR codes to menus or guest books so patrons can leave a review from their phone.
- Update hours and holiday closures: If you close early in August for feria or shut during winter renovations, update your hours. Doing so improves the customer experience.
- Answer questions: Check the Q&A section of your GBP regularly and provide prompt, friendly answers. This is an easy way to reassure potential visitors that you’re attentive.
Leverage photos, video and GBP features
A picture really is worth a thousand tapas. High‑quality visuals show travellers exactly what to expect and entice them to click “Directions”.
- Photos and videos: Add bright, well‑lit photos of your terrace, cocktails, rooms and team. Google recommends at least 720 x 720 pixels. Add videos showing behind‑the‑scenes prep or a drone view of your rooftop – they capture attention.
- Posts and specials: Use the “Posts” feature to announce events, new menu items or seasonal offers. Highlighting specials keeps your profile fresh and can drive last‑minute bookings.
- Reservations and orders: If you use a booking platform or offer takeaway, integrate it with GBP so guests can reserve or order directly.
- Accessibility and amenities: Include information about accessibility and amenities such as parking, beach access or pet‑friendly policies. Travellers often filter for wheelchair access or family‑friendly features.
Track performance and keep information fresh
Your GBP is not “set‑and‑forget”. Regular updates and data‑driven decisions will keep you ahead of the pack.
- Review analytics: Google provides insights that show how many people viewed your listing, called you, asked for directions or clicked your website. Watch these metrics to understand which photos or posts drive the most action.
- Keep details current: Make updating your listing part of your weekly or monthly routine. Adjust hours, add new photos and update your description when your offering changes. The more active your profile, the more favourably Google will rank it.
- Monitor local search trends: Periodically search for your keywords to see what competitors are doing. If other bars highlight their live music nights, make sure you promote your unique selling points too.
Conclusion
Your Google Business Profile is often the first place tourists encounter your Costa del Sol bar, café or B&B – so make it count. By claiming and completing your listing, engaging with guests, posting enticing visuals and updating your information regularly, you’ll not only climb in local search results but also give potential visitors a taste of what makes your place special.
Want help optimising your profile or mapping out a broader marketing strategy?
Want help optimising your profile or mapping out a broader marketing strategy? Book a free discovery call – let’s chat about turning online searches into real-world customers.