Do You Need a Website for Google Ads? A Complete Guide

In today’s digital marketing world, businesses are leveraging Google Ads to drive leads, sales, and brand awareness. However, a common question that arises is: Do you need a website to run Google Ads? The answer depends on the type of campaign you want to run and your business goals.

In this blog, we’ll explore whether a website is necessary for Google Ads, alternative solutions, and best practices for running successful ad campaigns.

Is a Website Required for Google Ads?

In most cases, having a website is essential to running Google Ads, especially for Search, Display, and Shopping campaigns. These ads typically direct users to a landing page or website where they can learn more about your product or service and take action.

However, there are exceptions where a website isn’t necessary. Let’s break it down:

When You DO Need a Website for Google Ads

Search Ads – These are text-based ads that appear on Google search results. When users click, they expect to be directed to a landing page or website.

Display Ads – These visual banner ads appear on websites in Google’s Display Network. They typically require a landing page.

Shopping Ads – If you’re running Google Shopping ads, you must have an online store where customers can purchase products.

When You DON’T Need a Website for Google Ads

Google Ads for Local Businesses (Google Business Profile Ads) – If you’re a local business, you can run ads linking to your Google Business Profile instead of a website. This works well for businesses like restaurants, salons, and retail stores.

Call-Only Ads – These ads encourage users to call your business directly without visiting a website. Ideal for service-based businesses like plumbers, electricians, and medical professionals.

App Promotion Ads – If you have a mobile app, you can use App Campaigns to drive downloads without needing a website.

What Are the Alternatives If You Don’t Have a Website?

If you don’t have a website but still want to advertise, here are some alternative solutions:

1. Use a Google Business Profile

For local businesses, optimizing your Google Business Profile allows you to run Local Search Ads that direct customers to your business listing instead of a website. Ensure your profile is complete with:
✔ Business Name
✔ Address & Contact Info
✔ Photos & Videos
✔ Reviews & Ratings

2. Leverage Google Ads’ Lead Form Extensions

Google Ads offers Lead Form Extensions, which let you collect customer information directly from the ad. This is useful for businesses that rely on inquiries rather than website traffic.

3. Utilize Social Media Pages

If you don’t have a website, you can direct traffic to a Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn page where customers can engage with your business.

4. Create a Simple Landing Page

If a full website is too much, consider building a one-page landing site using tools like:

Google Sites (Free)

Wix

Squarespace

Leadpages

A simple page with your services, contact details, and a call-to-action (CTA) can be enough to drive conversions.

Why Having a Website is Still the Best Option

While you can run Google Ads without a website in some cases, having one gives you more control, credibility, and better conversion rates. Here’s why:

Builds Trust – Customers trust businesses with professional websites more than those without.

SEO Benefits – Even if you run ads, having a website helps you rank organically in search results.

Better Conversions – A well-optimized landing page increases lead generation and sales.

Retargeting Ads – You can use Google remarketing to target visitors who previously interacted with your site.

Final Verdict: Do You Need a Website for Google Ads?

It depends on your campaign type and goals. If you’re a local business, call-based business, or promoting an app, you may not need a website. However, if you want to maximize conversions and brand authority, a website is highly recommended.

Want to run effective Google Ads campaigns? RoxoGlobal can help you set up, optimize, and scale your ads for the best ROI. Contact us today to get started!