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How To: Create a Web Map from a KML File ​

This guide will show you how to import a KML file and create an interactive web map in Honeycomb Maps. KML (Keyhole Markup Language) files are commonly used to display geographic data and are often exported from Google Earth, GPS devices, and other mapping applications.

Prerequisites ​

  • A KML or KMZ file with your geographic data
  • A Google Account (for saving maps)
  • Access to Honeycomb Maps

Step-by-Step Guide ​

1. Prepare Your KML File ​

Before importing, ensure your KML file contains the geographic data you want to visualize:

  • Points: Locations marked with coordinates
  • Lines/Paths: Routes, boundaries, or connections
  • Polygons: Areas, regions, or shapes
  • Styling: Colors, icons, and descriptions (will be preserved when possible)

File Format Support

Honeycomb Maps supports both .kml and .kmz (compressed KML) files directly. If you have other formats like .shp files, use our free geodata converter first.

2. Import the KML File ​

  1. Go to app.honeycombmaps.com
  2. Choose your import method:

Option A: From Google Drive

  • Click 'From Google Drive'
  • Select your KML/KMZ file from your Google Drive
  • If this is your first time using Honeycomb Maps, Google will ask you to approve permissions

Option B: From Local File

  • Click 'From a local file'
  • Browse and select your KML/KMZ file from your computer
  • The file will be uploaded and processed

3. Configure Map Settings ​

Once your KML file is loaded:

  1. Verify Data Load: Your geographic features should appear on the map automatically
  2. Add Missing Layers: If you don't see your data:
    • Click 'Edit Map' in the lower-left corner
    • Select 'Data Layers' from the panel
    • Add a new layer to display your KML features
  3. Adjust View: Pan and zoom to focus on your data area

4. Style Your Map ​

Customize the appearance of your KML data:

  • Layer Styling: Click on individual layers to modify colors, sizes, and opacity
  • Tooltips: Configure what information displays when users click on features
  • Components: Add a title and filters to your map, to let your users explore the data
  • Legend: Add a legend to explain data layers and styling

5. Save and Share ​

  1. Click 'Save Map' in the lower-left corner
  2. Choose a descriptive name for your map
  3. Click 'Save to Google Drive'
  4. Your map is now saved as a .honeycombmap file in your Google Drive

Tips for Better Results ​

  • File Size: Large KML files may take longer to process

Sharing Your Map ​

Once saved, your KML-based map can be shared just like any Google Drive file:

  • Private sharing: Share with specific users or your organization
  • Public sharing: Make available to anyone with the link
  • Embed options: Use Honeycomb's sharing features for website embedding

Next Steps ​

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