If you’re using Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) in your WordPress site to manage custom content, you know how powerful and flexible it is. But when it comes to displaying Google Maps based on your ACF location fields, things can get tricky, especially if you want a simple, reliable way to show maps with markers and links without extra hassle.

That’s why I created Google Maps Display for ACF, a lightweight WordPress plugin designed to bridge the gap between ACF and Google Maps seamlessly.

Why Use Google Maps Display for ACF?

Simplify Map Display with Minimal Setup

Instead of writing custom JavaScript and PHP to pull ACF location fields and render Google Maps, this plugin does all the heavy lifting for you. Just define your map location field in ACF, set the field name in the plugin settings, enter your Google Maps API key and Map ID, and you’re ready to display beautiful, interactive maps anywhere on your site using simple shortcodes.

Full Control Over Location Field

Many generic map plugins hardcode the location field name, forcing you to rename or duplicate fields. My plugin lets you specify the exact ACF field name you use for locations, making it flexible for any setup or project.

Easy to Use Shortcodes

Display a full interactive map with markers or a clean, clickable Google Maps link with two easy-to-remember shortcodes:

• [acfgooglemaps]: Shows the map with your ACF location data.
• [linktogooglemaps]: Shows a clickable link to the location on Google Maps.

Seamless Google Maps API Integration

The plugin automatically loads the Google Maps JavaScript API on the front-end using your provided API key and Map ID, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with Google’s terms.

Dependency Aware and Safe

It checks if the Advanced Custom Fields plugin is installed and active. If not, it prevents activation and shows admin notices, so your site never breaks due to missing dependencies.

Who Benefits from This Plugin?

• Developers: Save time by avoiding repetitive boilerplate code for integrating ACF locations and Google Maps.
• Agencies and Freelancers: Easily deliver consistent, professional maps for client websites with minimal configuration.
• Site Owners: Manage location data via the familiar ACF interface and display maps without touching code.

How to Get Started

1. Install and activate Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) on your WordPress site.
2. Install and activate Google Maps Display for ACF.
3. Enter your Google Maps API key, Map ID, and ACF location field name in the plugin settings page.
4. Use the shortcodes [acfgooglemaps] or [linktogooglemaps] in your posts, pages, widgets or theme builder.

Final Thoughts

If you want a clean, reliable way to display Google Maps tied directly to your ACF location fields without extra bloat or confusion, Google Maps Display for ACF is the plugin for you. It’s lightweight, easy to configure, and designed with best practices and future extensibility in mind. Feel free to try it out, and let me know what features you’d like to see next!