Back to Community
Home / Community / Plugin → Wp go maps (formerly wp google maps)

Fixing Common Google Maps API Key Issues in WP Go Maps

22 threads Sep 9, 2025 Plugin → Wp go maps (formerly wp google maps)

Content

Seeing an "Oops! Something went wrong" message or a blank map on your site is one of the most common issues users face with the WP Go Maps plugin. In the vast majority of cases, the problem is not with the plugin itself but with the configuration of the Google Maps API key. This guide will walk you through the most frequent causes and their solutions.

Why This Happens

Google requires an API key to load its maps on your website. If this key is missing, incorrect, or improperly configured, the map will fail to load. Common error messages seen in the browser console (F12) include MissingKeyMapError, RefererNotAllowedMapError, and ApiNotActivatedMapError.

How to Fix Common API Key Issues

1. Insert Your Key in the Correct Place

First, ensure you've pasted your API key into the plugin's settings. Navigate to Maps -> Settings -> Advanced tab. Find the "Google Maps API Key" field, paste your key, and save the settings.

2. Check Your API Key Restrictions

A RefererNotAllowedMapError means Google is blocking your key because your website's URL is not on its approved list. You must configure this in the Google Cloud Console.

  • Go to your Google Cloud Console.
  • Select your project and navigate to Credentials.
  • Edit your API key.
  • Under "Application restrictions," select HTTP referrers (web sites).
  • In the "Website restrictions" box, add your website's URL. The most reliable format is *.yourdomain.com/* (for example, *.example.com/*). This covers all subdomains and all pages. For a specific domain, you can also use example.com/*.
  • Click Save.

3. Enable the Required Google APIs

An ApiNotActivatedMapError occurs when your key is valid, but you haven't turned on the specific Google service it needs. For a basic map, you need at least the Maps JavaScript API enabled. If you are using features like geocoding (to convert addresses to coordinates), you must also enable the Geocoding API.

  • In your Google Cloud Console, go to Library from the sidebar.
  • Search for and enable "Maps JavaScript API".
  • If you are adding markers by address, also search for and enable "Geocoding API".

4. Verify Billing is Set Up with Google

Google Maps APIs are no longer free for unlimited use. While you get a recurring $200 monthly credit, you must have a billing account attached to your Google Cloud project for the maps to work, even if you never exceed the free credit limit. Ensure your billing account is active and linked to your project.

5. Check for Conflicts

If your API key is correct and properly configured but the map still fails, another plugin or your theme might be loading a second, invalid instance of the Google Maps API, which conflicts with WP Go Maps. To test for this:

  1. Temporarily switch to a default WordPress theme like Twenty Twenty-One.
  2. Disable all other plugins.
  3. If the map works, reactivate your plugins one by one to identify the conflict.

Need More Help?

If you've worked through these steps and are still encountering issues, the best way to get help is to open your browser's developer console (F12) and look for any red error messages related to Google Maps. Copying these errors can provide vital clues for further troubleshooting on community forums.

Related Support Threads Support