Searching coordinates on Google Maps helps you pinpoint exact locations for travel, deliveries, or meetups. This guide walks you through simple steps to find, share, and use latitude and longitude on the map.
Whether you are planning a route or verifying a location, using coordinates ensures accuracy and saves time. The following sections explain how to do this efficiently on both mobile and desktop.
| Action | Mobile App | Desktop Browser | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long press location | Touch and hold on the map | Not available | Drops a red pin and shows coordinates |
| Open place details | Search place name, tap info card | Search place name, open result | Coordinates appear in the URL or info panel |
| Copy coordinates | Tap coordinates to copy | Right-click coordinates link to copy | Coordinates are ready to share or paste |
| Paste coordinates | Search bar: paste DMS or decimal | Search bar: paste DMS or decimal | Map moves to the exact location |
Find Exact Coordinates by Dropping a Pin on the Map
How to Drop a Pin on Mobile
On Google Maps mobile, open the app and find the area you want. Press and hold the screen where you want the pin to appear. A red pin drops and a card shows the address along with coordinates in some cases.
How to Drop a Pin on Desktop
On desktop, there is no direct long-press action. Instead, search for the location or zoom to the area. Right-click the spot on the map to drop a pin. A panel opens with details, and you can copy the coordinates from the address bar or nearby info.
Using Coordinates to Create a Custom Location
You can search using DMS or decimal degrees format directly in the search bar. Type the coordinates and press Enter. The map centers on that point, and you can then save it as a favorite or share the link with others.
Open Coordinates from a Saved Place or Share Link
View Coordinates for a Named Place
Search for the place, such as a restaurant or landmark. Tap or click the place to open its details. The coordinates may appear in the description or you can find them in the URL on desktop or through the share menu on mobile.
Extract Coordinates from a Shared Link
When someone shares a Google Maps link, the coordinates are often embedded in the URL. Open the link on your device, and the map will center on that location. You can then copy the coordinates from the search bar or the link itself.
Share Your Current Location with Coordinates
To share where you are, long press your blue location dot and choose share. Copy the link or note the coordinates from the card. This allows friends or colleagues to open the exact spot in their own maps app.
Search for Coordinates Directly in the Search Bar
Using Decimal Degrees Format
Enter decimal coordinates like 40.7128,-74.0060 in the search field. Google Maps recognizes this format and moves the map to that point. This method works quickly for known latitude and longitude values.
Using Degrees Minutes Seconds Format
You can also search using DMS format such as 40°42′50.4″N 74°00′21.6″W. The map parses the input and navigates to the exact location. This is useful when you have coordinates from older maps or GPS devices.
Validate Coordinates Before Navigation
After searching, always check that the pin is in the correct place. Review the address and nearby roads to avoid navigation errors. This step is important for meeting points, deliveries, or unfamiliar areas.
Best Practices for Using Coordinates on Google Maps
- Always verify coordinates before sharing them for meetings or deliveries.
- Use decimal format for quick searches and DMS format when working with printed maps.
- Copy and save links so others can open the exact same location.
- Check the surrounding streets and landmarks to confirm the pin is accurate.
- Test coordinate searches in a familiar area to learn the format and behavior.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I copy coordinates from Google Maps on my phone?
Long press the location to drop a pin, tap the coordinates displayed on the card, and select copy. You can then paste them into messages or notes.
Can I search coordinates in Google Maps without internet?
Offline maps do not support coordinate search. You need an internet connection to parse latitude and longitude in the search bar or to drop a pin and view details.
Why do the coordinates I searched not point to the right place?
This can happen if you entered the wrong format, swapped latitude and longitude, or included extra characters. Double-check the order and formatting, and compare with known sources.
Can I save coordinates as a favorite place in the Google Maps app?
Yes, after dropping a pin and confirming the location, use the save option to add it to your starred places. This lets you revisit the coordinates quickly later.