Verify your Google Business Profile
Google only shows verified business profiles on Maps. Without verification, your listing might exist, but no one sees it. To check, sign into Google Business Profile Manager and ensure you’ve completed the verification process (Google will send a postcard, phone call, or email). Without this step, your listing won’t appear.
Common reasons your business is invisible on Google Maps
- You haven’t verified your profile
- Your business information (name, address, phone number) is inconsistent across the web
- Your website isn’t optimised for local search
- You recently opened or changed location and Google hasn’t updated yet
- You’re targeting the wrong keywords or categories
- You don’t have enough reviews or fresh content
- You’ve been flagged or penalised by Google
Visit the official Google Business verification page and follow the instructions to get verified.
Keep your details consistent
Google cross‑checks your business Name, Address and Phone (NAP) across websites, directories and social profiles. If there are discrepancies—like “Bar Málaga” vs “Bar Malaga, S.L.” — Google might not trust your listing. Check directories such as Tripadvisor, Facebook and your own website to ensure your NAP is exactly the same everywhere. Also choose the most accurate category (e.g., “Bed and breakfast” instead of “Hotel”) to help Google match you with relevant searches.
Optimise your website for local search
Even though Google Maps relies on your business listing, your website still plays a key role. Use local keywords (e.g., “restaurant in Torremolinos”) in your page titles, headings and meta descriptions. Add an embedded Google Map on your contact page so Google knows where you are located. Use structured data (schema) to mark up your address and business hours. A slow, non‑mobile‑friendly website can also hurt your visibility. If building or updating a site feels overwhelming, we can help — our agency specialises in creating modern websites that rank locally.
Build your reputation
Reviews are a big ranking factor on Google. Encourage happy guests to leave 5‑star reviews and respond to them quickly. Add photos of your business to your profile and post regular updates; a stagnant listing loses trust. On your website and social media, share helpful tips and events to keep your brand fresh.
Think long‑term
Staying visible is an ongoing process. After you’ve verified your listing and cleaned up your NAP, continue to create content, ask for reviews and watch your rankings. Submitting your business to other directories (like Apple Maps or Bing Places) can also boost your authority. Tools like Google Search Console and analytics can show you which keywords bring visitors, so you can refine your strategy over time.
If your Costa del Sol bar or B&B isn’t showing up on Google Maps, don’t panic. Verify your listing, tidy up your details, optimise your website and earn reviews — and you’ll start climbing the local rankings. Want help getting your business seen by tourists online? Book a free discovery call and we’ll show you how.