Creating Landing Pages on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Landing pages work on any Squarespace plan but need a paid plan for full customization
- Version 7.1 offers flexible layouts with hidden headers/footers
- Version 7.0 uses dedicated cover pages for simple, visual designs
- Custom URLs and SEO settings help target specific audiences
- Keep pages out of navigation using the 'Not Linked' section
Landing pages are perfect for promoting events, announcements, or special offers. They strip away distractions and focus visitors on one clear message or action.
The setup process depends on which Squarespace version you're using, so let's break down both approaches.
Version-Specific Setup
Squarespace 7.1
Version 7.1 gives you the most flexibility for landing pages. You can hide headers and footers to create a cleaner, more focused experience.
To remove navigation elements:
- Go to your page settings
- Click 'Navigation'
- Toggle off 'Show Header' and 'Show Footer'
This creates a standalone page that doesn't distract from your main message.
Squarespace 7.0
Version 7.0 has built-in cover pages designed specifically for landing page purposes. These focus on strong visuals and concise messaging without typical website navigation elements.
Cover pages work well for simple campaigns where you want maximum visual impact with minimal content.
Building Your Landing Page
Start with a blank page to give yourself a clean canvas. From there, you can add sections and blocks for different content types like text, images, or videos.
Design your page:
- Choose a compelling background image or color
- Add multimedia elements that support your message
- Keep your brand colors and typography consistent
Content structure:
- Lead with a clear headline
- Include a brief description of your offer
- Add a prominent call-to-action button
- Keep copy concise and scannable
Once you're happy with the content, save your changes and set the page to public.
Advanced Options
Setting as homepage: If you're running a short-term campaign, you can temporarily set your landing page as your site's homepage.
Hiding from navigation: Use the 'Not Linked' section in your Pages panel to keep the landing page accessible by direct URL but hidden from your main navigation menu.
Custom URLs: Set custom URL slugs in the page settings to create memorable links that are easy to share or type.
FAQs
Do I need a paid plan for landing pages?
You can create landing pages on any Squarespace plan, but you'll need a paid plan for full customization options and to make pages publicly accessible.
Can I create custom URLs for my landing pages?
Yes, you can set custom URL slugs in the page settings. This is useful for creating branded links or making URLs easier to remember and share.
How do I keep my landing page out of search results?
Add a "noindex" tag through the SEO settings for your page. This tells search engines not to include the page in their results.
Can I use landing pages with member areas?
Yes, you can integrate landing pages with Squarespace's member areas to gate content behind a paywall or membership signup.
Jargon Buster
Cover Page: A minimalist page style in Squarespace 7.0 that focuses on media and quick messages without traditional site navigation.
Layout Page: A flexible page setup in Squarespace 7.1 that allows multiple content blocks and design elements.
URL Slug: The customizable part of a web address that comes after your domain name, used to create memorable or branded links.
Not Linked: A section in Squarespace's Pages panel where you can place pages that exist on your site but don't appear in your navigation menu.
Wrap-up
Landing pages help you focus visitor attention on specific campaigns, events, or offers. The key is keeping them simple and distraction-free. Whether you're using Squarespace 7.0's cover pages or 7.1's flexible layouts, the goal is the same: create a clear path from visitor interest to action.
Start with your strongest headline, support it with compelling visuals, and make your call-to-action obvious. The cleaner and more focused your landing page, the better it will perform.
Ready to take your Squarespace skills further? Join Pixelhaze Academy for in-depth tutorials and expert guidance.