What a custom map is and why you might make one

A custom map in Google Maps is a map you build yourself by marking specific locations, drawing routes or areas, and adding notes. Google calls this feature "My Maps." You own the map, you control what appears on it, and you can share it with other people or keep it private. Unlike the standard Google Maps that shows every business and street, your custom map shows only what you decide to put there.

People use custom maps for many reasons: planning a road trip with stops marked, showing clients where your rental properties are located, mapping out neighborhood walking routes, organizing a family reunion with venue and hotel locations, or documenting places you want to visit. The map stays in your Google account, so you can edit it anytime and see the changes when ready on any device where you are signed in.

Key Takeaways

  • Custom maps are created through Google My Maps, which is free and requires only a Google account.
  • You can add individual locations by searching for them, clicking on the map, or uploading a spreadsheet of addresses.
  • You can draw lines, shapes, and areas directly on your map to show routes or boundaries.
  • You control who sees your map by sharing a link, making it public, or keeping it private to yourself.
  • Custom maps sync across your phone, tablet, and computer as long as you are signed into the same Google account.

How to start a new custom map

Go to mymaps.google.com in your web browser. You must be signed into your Google account. If you are not signed in, click "Sign in" in the top right corner and enter your Google email and password.

Once you are signed in, click the red "Create" button or the plus sign icon. Google will ask you to name your map. Type a name that describes what the map is for — for example, "Summer Road Trip 2024" or "Neighborhood Coffee Shops." You can also add a description below the name if you want to remember why you made it. Click "Create" and your blank map will open.

Adding locations to your map

There are three main ways to add a location. The first is to search for it. At the top left of your map, you will see a search box. Type in an address, business name, or landmark — for example, "Yellowstone National Park" or "123 Main Street, Denver, CO." Press Enter. Google will show you the location on the map. Click on the location pin that appears, then click "Add to map." The location is now marked on your custom map with a colored pin.

The second way is to click directly on the map where you want to mark something. Move your cursor to the spot on the map, right-click, and select "Add a marker." A pin will appear. Click on the pin, and a box will open where you can type a name for that location and add notes or a description. Click "Save."

The third way is to upload multiple locations at once using a spreadsheet. Click the three-line menu icon (hamburger menu) at the top left, then select "Import." You can upload a CSV file or Google Sheet that contains addresses or coordinates. Google will map all of them automatically. This is useful if you have a long list of properties, store locations, or event venues.

Drawing routes and shapes on your map

To draw a line or route, look for the drawing tools on the left side of the map. Click the line icon to draw a route between points. Click on the map to set each point along the route, then double-click to finish. You can name the route and change its color.

To draw a shape or boundary — such as a neighborhood border or property outline — click the shape icon. Click on the map to set each corner of the shape, then double-click to close it. Google will fill the shape with a semi-transparent color that you can customize. You can add a name and description to any shape or route you draw.

Customizing how your map looks

Each location you add gets a colored pin. You can change the color and icon of any pin to organize your map visually. Click on a pin, then click the paint bucket icon that appears. Choose a new color or select a different icon — Google offers symbols for restaurants, hotels, parking, and many other categories. This helps you see at a glance which locations are which type.

You can also change the base map style. Click the three-line menu, then select "Map style." Google offers options like "Default," "Satellite," or "Terrain." Pick whichever helps you see what you need. The style you choose applies to the whole map.

Sharing your custom map with others

To share your map, click the "Share" button at the top right. Google will show you sharing options. You can copy a link and send it to specific people, or you can make the map public so anyone with the link can view it. If you want only certain people to see it, click "Restricted" and type in their email addresses. Those people must have a Google account to view a restricted map.

When you share a map, you decide whether people can only view it or whether they can also edit it. If you select "Editor," anyone you share with can add locations, draw on the map, and make changes. If you select "Viewer," they can only look at it. You can change these permissions anytime by clicking "Share" again.

Accessing your custom map on your phone

Custom maps sync to the Google Maps app on your phone or tablet. Open the Google Maps app, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) at the bottom right, and scroll down to "Your places." Tap "Maps," and you will see all your custom maps listed. Tap any map to open it. The map will show all the locations, routes, and shapes you added on your computer.

On your phone, you can view the map and get directions to any location on it, but editing is limited. To add new locations or make major changes, it is easier to go back to mymaps.google.com on a computer. However, you can add quick notes or photos to existing locations from your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I delete a location from my custom map?

Yes. Click on the location pin, then click the trash icon that appears. The location will be removed when ready. You can undo this action by pressing Ctrl+Z (or Cmd+Z on Mac) right away, but once you close the map, the deletion is permanent.

What happens if I stop sharing my map with someone?

They will no longer be able to view or access the map. If they had the link saved, clicking it will show an error message saying they do not have permission. You can re-share the map with them anytime by clicking "Share" again and adding their email.

Can I use a custom map offline on my phone?

Not directly through My Maps. The Google Maps app does allow you to read certain areas for offline use, but custom maps require an internet connection to view. If offline access is important, you may need to take screenshots or export the map as an image.

How many locations can I add to one custom map?

Google does not publish a hard limit, but custom maps work best with a few hundred locations. If you have thousands of locations to map, consider splitting them across multiple maps or using Google Earth instead.

Can I edit a custom map someone shared with me?

Only if they gave you "Editor" permission when they shared it. If you have "Viewer" permission, you can see the map but cannot make changes. Ask the map owner to change your permission level if you need to edit it.