Top Online Sportsbooks in California 2026

Eric Uribe By , 
Reviewed by , 
Fact checked by
Updated on: Mar 4, 2026 12:00 AM

Sports-Betting-in-California

California may be one of the biggest sports markets in the country, but legal betting is still off-limits. Voters rejected both Prop 26 and Prop 27 in 2022, leaving the state without any regulated online or retail sportsbooks. Major tribal casinos like Pechanga, Yaamava’, and Morongo offer casino gaming, but not regulated sports betting in California.

Fortunately, California players can still bet through offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie. These sites operate outside state jurisdiction, offering secure platforms with fast payouts, full odds coverage, and mobile access without restrictions.

This page breaks down where the law stands, how to visit the tribal sportsbooks in person, and which offshore sites are trusted by Californians looking to bet today.

Can I bet online in California? No. California does not license online or retail sportsbooks, and there are no state-regulated online casinos. The only fully legal online betting option is horse racing through approved advance deposit wagering platforms. Many residents use offshore sportsbooks and online casinos that accept California players, but these sites are not licensed or regulated by California authorities; learn more in our offshore sportsbooks hub.

Quick California Facts

State California
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws Prohibited (no licensed operators)
👪 Population 39 Million
🎲 Min. Gambling Age 21 (casinos and cardrooms that serve alcohol)
18 (horse racing, state lottery, and certain tribal casinos without alcohol, see our gambling laws and cardrooms guide for full details)
🏢 Retail Betting Not Available
🌐 Online Betting Not Available
📱 Mobile Betting Not Available
🐎 Online Horse Betting Available (pari-mutuel)
🏆 DFS (Daily Fantasy) Legal gray area

Is Sports Betting Legal In California?

Sports betting is not legal in California, and won’t be anytime soon. Despite multiple attempts, the state has failed to pass any legislation allowing online or retail sportsbooks. The most notable effort came in November 2022, when two competing ballot measures, Proposition 26 and Proposition 27, aimed to legalize sports betting under tribal oversight or through commercial operators.

TL;DR

  • Tribal gaming groups and national sportsbook operators remain divided.
  • Competing ballot measures in 2022 confused voters.
  • Over $500 million in negative advertising hurt public support.
  • Many voters distrust large out-of-state gambling companies.

Both failed by a wide margin. Prop 26, backed by Native American tribes to allow retail betting at tribal casinos, was rejected by 67% of voters. Prop 27, which proposed mobile sports betting backed by major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel, did even worse, earning only 17% support. Over $500 million was spent campaigning on both sides, but voters made it clear: there’s little public appetite for legal betting in the Golden State.

Since then, legislative momentum has stalled. Lawmakers remain hesitant to revisit the issue, given how decisively the measures were defeated. One possible workaround could involve tribal groups negotiating directly with the state government, similar to how Florida's Seminole Tribe secured exclusive betting rights, but that route comes with legal risks and political resistance.

Product State-licensed? Typical online options? Notes
Sportsbook No Offshore sportsbooks only (not state-regulated) California has no legal, state-licensed online sports betting.
Online casino No Offshore casinos only (not state-regulated) Online casino gaming is not licensed by the state; legal casino play is primarily in tribal casinos in-person.
Horse racing Yes Licensed ADWs (online horse betting) Pari-mutuel horse racing wagers are legal in-person and via approved advance deposit wagering platforms.
Lottery Yes Retail ticket purchase (online play limited) California Lottery is legal statewide; ticket sales are generally through authorized retailers.
DFS No Some DFS operators still accept CA players Considered illegal sports wagering under 2025 AG opinion; status contested.
Sweepstakes casinos No Sweepstakes-style sites/apps using “coins” or “sweeps” models Not regulated as real-money casinos in California; availability and compliance vary by operator and may change.

California has specifically targeted online sweepstakes casinos that mimic real-money gambling under Assembly Bill 831 (AB 831). Lawmakers have moved to restrict platforms that use dual-currency or “sweeps coin” models designed to replicate traditional casino play without formal gambling licenses. For a full breakdown of the law and how it affects players, see our sweepstakes casinos guide.

In the meantime, offshore sportsbooks are widely used by Californians due to the lack of licensed state options. Sites like BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie operate legally outside U.S. jurisdiction, making them accessible from California despite the state’s ban on local operators. These platforms offer full betting markets, reliable payouts, and mobile access, without requiring state approval.

Top 7 California Sports Betting Sites

Here’s a short list of the top 7 offshore sportsbooks for California bettors:

  1. BetUS - Extensive range of betting options across multiple sports.
  2. Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
  3. BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
  4. XBet - Quick payouts and responsive customer support.
  5. BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
  6. MyBookie - Innovative prop bets and creative wagering opportunities.
  7. Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.

#1 BetUS

BetUS Website Preview
Our score: 4.8/5
Play now on BetUS
Pros
Massive free-play bonuses
Deep betting menu
Cons
7-day expiration on free play
High rollover requirements
BetUS stands out for one reason: bonuses. Few sportsbooks come close. The sign-up offer can reach $2,625 in free play, while the referral bonus goes as high as $6,000. Most sites cap their bonuses at $1,000 or less, so this is a major edge.

The sportsbook itself covers everything from NFL and NBA to UFC and golf, with competitive odds and a clean interface.

For deposits, BetUS accepts credit cards, crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin), and person-to-person transfers. Crypto is also the fastest withdrawal method, usually within 24 hours and with no fees. Bank wire is slower and may include a fee.

Big bonuses, fast payouts, and solid sports coverage. BetUS is a strong pick for any bettor.

#2 Bovada

Bovada Website Preview
Our score: 4.3/5
Play now on Bovada
Pros
Extremely trustworthy
Simple and clean betting experience
Cons
Site looks rather dated
Cheap bonuses
Bovada is one of the most trusted offshore sportsbooks. It has been around since the early 2010s and built a large user base by keeping things simple and reliable.

The platform is easy to use, which makes it perfect for beginners. Everything loads fast and the layout is focused purely on betting. You’ll find odds on all major sports along with niche options like rugby, curling, cricket and esports.

Deposits are available through credit cards and crypto, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin. Withdrawals work best with crypto, usually arriving in under 24 hours. Other options like checks and bank transfers are slower and may include fees.

For a smooth, no-fuss betting experience, Bovada is a dependable choice.

#3 BetOnline

BetOnline Website Preview
Our score: 4.1/5
Play now on BetOnline
Pros
Huge sportsbook menu
Solid promotional bonuses
Cons
Could use more contests
Limiting rollover bonuses
BetOnline offers the most complete sportsbook on this list. If a sport exists, you can probably bet on it here. From Canadian football to Belarusian soccer to table tennis, the coverage is massive and always active.

The variety of bets is just as strong. You get moneylines, spreads, and totals, plus a deep selection of props and futures. This is where BetOnline stands out. Special markets are available for almost every event, and the odds are competitive across the board.

Deposits are easy with credit cards, crypto, and bank transfers. Bitcoin and Ethereum are both accepted and often come with extra bonuses. For withdrawals, crypto is the fastest and most reliable option. Payouts usually arrive within 24 hours. Traditional methods like checks and wires are available too, but they take longer.

If you want variety, speed, and solid pricing, BetOnline is one of the best choices out there.

#4 XBet

Xbet Website Preview
Our score: 4.1/5
Play now on Xbet
Pros
Broad range of sports markets
Intuitive mobile betting app
Cons
Rollover bonuses aren't great
XBet is a sleek, mobile-optimized sportsbook and casino that caters well to U.S. players looking for low-rollover bonus deals and frequent reload promos. It offers a variety of betting markets on major sports like NBA, NFL, and horse racing, with plenty of prop and live betting options across those leagues.

One of XBet’s strengths is its clearer, more manageable rollover requirements on many bonuses compared with other offshore books. New users can claim a welcome bonus and there are ongoing reload rewards and crypto incentives as well. Payouts, especially via crypto, tend to be fast, and 24/7 support in English and Spanish adds to the platform’s appeal. That said, the minimum deposit for some bonuses is higher than at rivals, and the overall number of available sports isn’t as extensive as at the biggest offshore books.

#5 BetNow

BetNow Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
Play now on BetNow
Pros
Wide-array of promotions
Only sportsbook rebate in the business
Cons
Sportsbook odds can be a little pricey than competitors
BetNow is a solid offshore sportsbook that’s easy to navigate with competitive odds and a broad selection of markets across major and niche sports. Bettors will find traditional wagers like moneylines, spreads, and totals, plus a range of props and futures. The platform also runs regular contests, like weekly NFL, NBA, and MLB picks with cash prizes, which add extra value for active players.

Payment options cover crypto and traditional methods, with fast Bitcoin payouts being one of the standout features. Customer support is responsive, and users generally report smooth verification and payout experiences. However, some bonuses come with confusing or relatively high rollover requirements, and the lack of a native mobile app can be a drawback for bettors who prefer app-based wagering.

#6 MyBookie

MyBookie Website Preview
Our score: 4.8/5
Play now on MyBookie
Pros
Excellent VIP program
Well-stocked casino and sportsbook
Cons
VIP program is invite only
Platform could use a new look
What makes MyBookie stand out is its exclusive VIP program. Unlike other sportsbooks that hand out loyalty points to everyone, MyBookie keeps its program invite-only. That may sound limiting, but it allows them to offer serious perks.

VIP members get access to unique bonuses, including risk-free bets, free spins, and cashback on losses — up to $1,000 in some cases. They also get faster payouts with prioritized processing. It’s one of the few reward programs that actually feels rewarding.

Getting in takes commitment. You need to bet regularly and at a decent volume. It’s not for casual players, but if you’re consistent, the benefits stack up quickly.

Deposits are available through credit cards and popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Withdrawals are fastest with crypto, usually within 24 hours. Traditional options like bank transfers are available too, though slower.

For high-volume bettors who want more than just standard promos, MyBookie is a strong choice.

#7 Everygame

Everygame Website Preview
Our score: 3.9/5
Play now on Everygame
Pros
Awesome casino
Most soccer/football betting options around
Cons
Mobile app needs some catching up to do
Bonuses don't pay all that much
Everygame was once known as Intertops. When you backtrack that history, it’s one of the most tenured betting sites around. It ends up on this list because it’s a well-rounded experience.

A lot of the things we’ve mentioned about the previous sites — diverse bonuses, a large betting menu, a slick mobile app — also apply here. It’s not that Everygame does any of these exceptionally well, but they all have a place on site. Added together, it really makes for a top-end experience.

If there is one area in which Everygame stands out to us is in its casino offerings. First of all, there are multiple casinos here, and even a live dealer one. Gaming options are absolutely everywhere, whether you’re on a computer or mobile phone. Casino betting is a perfect complement to the sportsbook.

Speaking of which, the Everygame sportsbook holds up pretty damn well too. Everygame is European-based, which means the football (soccer if you’re American) betting selection here is almost second to none. Often, Everygame will marry their promos based on the sport — a double-whammy for football bettors.

Offshore Sportsbooks Explained

Offshore sportsbooks are betting sites that are licensed in foreign jurisdictions but are not licensed in California or anywhere in the United States. They operate legally under the laws of their home country, yet they function outside California’s regulatory framework. While not state-regulated, they remain available to Californians.

Pros:

  • Broad access for California residents
  • Wide range of betting markets and props
  • Often accept cryptocurrency payments

Cons:

  • No California state consumer protections
  • Dispute resolution depends on the operator’s internal policies
  • Players must rely on brand reputation and track record

California Sports Betting Timeline

Legal Timeline Snapshot: Earliest realistic launch: 2027+ (subject to tribal–operator negotiations and potential new ballot measures). Nothing is imminent.

Even without legal sports betting, there’s still plenty of news happening in the state of California around the issue. Here are some recent headlines you should be most aware of:

Mar 04, 2026 11:14 AM

California still has no legal sports betting market, with tribal groups and commercial operators continuing discussions while the next potential legalization effort is expected to target a future ballot rather than the immediate election cycle.

2026

February 23, 2026 - Sports betting remains illegal in California, and major sportsbooks are still blocked from operating in the state. With no new proposals advancing, momentum has shifted toward a future ballot cycle rather than near-term reform.
 
January 25, 2026 - California enters 2026 without legal sports betting, and following the collapse of Prop 26 and Prop 27 and the passage of AB 831, industry focus has moved to potential tribal-led ballot initiatives, with legalization now more likely in 2028 than in 2026.

2025

December 17, 2025 - California continues to have no legal retail or online sports betting as of December 2025 — attempts to pass a statewide framework stalled once again in the legislature.
 
November 13, 2025 - California sports betting efforts remain in a holding pattern as tribal leaders and commercial sportsbook operators continue to disagree on the structure of a future regulated market. While polling shows increased support from voters, industry experts now believe 2027 is the earliest realistic launch window unless negotiations accelerate in early 2026.
 
October 17, 2025 - State officials confirmed that no sports betting initiatives will make it onto the November 2025 ballot, pushing the earliest chance for legalization to 2026. Industry groups say momentum is growing, but tribal divisions remain the biggest hurdle.
 
September 5, 2025 - California holds its ground among the few states still without legal sports betting following the overwhelming defeat of Proposition 27 in 2022.
 
August 3, 2025 - California’s complex regulatory environment continues to delay legal sports betting. Tribal gaming groups and commercial operators remain at odds, with no new agreements reached as of August. Despite high market demand, legislative progress is slow, and no operational sportsbooks have launched statewide.
 
July 11, 2025 - California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a legal opinion declaring that daily fantasy sports contests, including “pick ’em” and “draft style” formats, qualify as illegal sports wagering under state law.
 
June 13, 2025 - The Los Angeles Dodgers have named PrizePicks their official daily fantasy sports partner, marking a new partnership between the team and the DFS operator.

May 5, 2025 
- Fanatics Sportsbook activated its Fair Play Policy, refunding more than $500,000 to bettors after Steph Curry was injured in Golden State’s Game 1 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
 
April 21, 2025 - The California Nations Indian Gaming Association and the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations released a joint statement clarifying that “the claim of an agreement between tribes and commercial operators is simply false."
 
April 1, 2025 - The Sports Betting Alliance reveals a proposal to legalize sports betting in California by having major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel collaborate with a unified tribal entity representing all 109 tribes in the state.
 
February 3, 2025 - FanDuel and Flutter Entertainment have donated $250K to support Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts following devastating fires in the area.
 
January 23, 2025 - High 5 Entertainment is facing a lawsuit in California, alleging that its sweepstakes site is being operated illegally.

2024

December 21, 2024 - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie expressed confidence that Texas will legalize sports betting during its next legislative session. However, he remains less optimistic about California, citing ongoing hurdles that could delay progress.
 










November 13, 2024 - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie believes sports betting legalization in Texas will happen next legislative session, but he's not as bullish on California.

September 23, 2024 - PlayCA reports that the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon near Bakersfield is set to open in 2025.










 
August 28, 2024 - California's tribal gaming landscape saw a notable change as Governor Gavin Newsom endorsed new gaming compacts. These agreements were forged between the state and two Native American tribes: the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe and the Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria. This move marks a significant step in the evolving relationship between California and its indigenous nations regarding gaming rights.

July 27, 2024 - Google updated its advertising policy to permit daily fantasy sports (DFS) ads on web browsers in California. DFS operates in a legal gray area in the state, meaning it is neither explicitly legal nor illegal.
 
June 30, 2024 - The commencement of construction marked the inception of a novel high-speed rail network linking Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Scheduled for inauguration in 2028, the railway promises enhanced accessibility for Californians to legal sports betting, should it not debut within the state prior to its launch.


May 7, 2024 - Indian Gaming Association Chairman Victor Rocha said that “retail sports betting will be back on the ballot in California in 2026, with mobile to follow in 2028 if all goes to plan.”


April 20, 2024 - A betting scandal rocked California as renowned athlete Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani’s legal team alleged that Mizuhara had stolen at least $4.5 million from the player to pay off gambling debts.


January 7, 2024 - The Sports Betting Alliance (SBA), comprising prominent US gambling operators, opposes two sports betting ballots in California and will not provide financial support for either initiative.

2023

December 1, 2023 - DraftKings introduced the DK Horse betting app in California, providing state bettors with a fresh mobile betting choice for major horse racing events.


November 2, 2023 - Tribal leaders in California have opposed the two ballot initiatives to legalize sports betting, openly criticizing the proposals.


October 5, 2023 - Golden Gate Fields racetrack in Berkeley will stay open until June 2024 to hold another year of horse races before closing down.


September 5, 2023 - Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley will cease operations permanently this December. The horse racing track's closure looks to increase the attendance at Santa Anita.


August 2, 2023 - Native American tribes in California advocated for legislation that would allow them to legally challenge card games such as blackjack offered at casinos.


July 3, 2023 - The 29 Palms Band of Mission Indians has launched a new social betting platform that allows users to participate in online sports wagering without real money. You can earn credits through the platform and use them at the tribe's casinos.


June 12, 2023 - The Oakland Athletics announced a preliminary agreement with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, signaling their intention to move the team to Las Vegas.


May 5, 2023 - During a conference, Jason Robins, the CEO of DraftKings, expressed his belief that legalizing sports betting in California would take considerable time.


March 23, 2023 - As lobbyists advocate for the legalization of mobile betting, state representatives are analyzing its widespread success throughout the country.


February 28, 2023 - Will the pummelling of California sports betting in 2022 stop any upcoming ballot pushes in the future?


January 27, 2023 - It is expected that California will vote to approve online sports betting legal – what to expect.

2022

December 14, 2022 - With the clear rejection of Proposition 27, those in the industry need to change their strategy for working with tribes to legalize online sports betting in California.


November 23, 2022 - The future of sports betting looks bleak, given the lack of movement in 2022.


November 9, 2022 - Gambling giants are the losers following California rejecting a betting bill. There is hope for the industry to overturn a referendum outcome in the biggest US market in 2024.


November 8, 2022 - Both Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 failed to expand legal sports betting in California in the Midterm elections.


October 30, 2022 - Special interest in ballot propositions is making things complicated regarding sports betting legalization in California.


September 30, 2022 - Dueling California sports betting propositions appear headed for defeat, poll finds.


August 27, 2022 - California's sports betting propositions break state spending records.


August 8, 2022 - Analysts have predicted that both California sports betting ballot questions will be defeated.


August 1, 2022 - Just last week, a Tribe-Sponsored advert aimed at attacking opponents to Prop 27 was published, claiming those opposing the Prop liars.


July 28, 2022 - A recent lawsuit has come to light that could change gambling in casinos in California.


July 1, 2022 - In a sports betting spat, tribes tout big backers against online giants, with Dolores Huerta leading things.


May 18, 2022 - The General Election in the United States and local elections in California with local measures such as the Draft Kings, FanDuel and BetMGM-backed measure for legalizing sports betting in California and a competing measure from the California Native Tribes - both measures collected enough signatures to be on the ballot.


May 17, 2022 - The Golden State Warriors are the only California team left in either the NBA or NHL playoffs. The Edmonton Oilers eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in 7 games, and Dallas Mavericks beat Phoenix Suns also in 7 games. Mavericks and Warriors will now battle for the Western Conference title and the ticket to the 2022 NBA Finals against the winner of Eastern Conference Finals, Miami Heat or Boston Celtics.


April 15, 2022 - California voters get their opportunity to legalize sports betting in November, when the California Native Tribes' measure is on the ballot. This would legalize dice games and sports betting at Native American-operated casinos.


March 8, 2022 - A lawsuit to invalidate a retail sport betting ballot proposal has been filed because the Supreme Court declined to hear it.


February 25, 2022 - Over a fifth of California voters are undecided on sports betting, according to a survey from UC Berkeley. At least one sports betting option will be on November's ballot.


February 9, 2022 - Three tribes are looking to bring forward a sportsbook-backed ballot initiative to put mobile sports betting on the November ballot.


January 18, 2022 - The fight to control sports betting in California gets picked up by an article in the New York Times.

Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in California

Why FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars & ESPN Bet Don’t Work in California

Major U.S.-regulated sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics Sportsbook are not legally permitted to operate in California because the state does not authorize online or retail sports betting. These companies must comply with state-by-state gambling laws, and California is not an approved market.

If you open one of these apps while located in California, you will be geo-blocked. The apps use precise location verification technology to detect your physical position before allowing a wager. Trying to bypass this with a VPN is not a reliable solution and typically violates the operator’s terms and conditions, which can result in account suspension or closure.

Betting On Politics, Esports, And Entertainment In California

Even if betting were 100 percent legal in California, you wouldn’t be able to throw money on outcomes like politics or entertainment in a licensed betting app. You see, when you get a state license, you also get regulated. One of the most common regulations found in the country is that only sports can be bet on.

Some offshore sites offer additional markets not permitted in regulated U.S. sportsbooks. Everything, and we mean everything, is on the betting table here including presidential results, entertainment show outcomes, WWE endings (yes, even though it’s scripted), and more.

Betting Apps In California

There are currently no California-licensed sports betting apps. The state does not regulate online sportsbooks, which means you will not find any legal, state-approved betting apps available for download within California.

Instead, the real mobile betting option for residents is offshore sportsbooks that offer mobile-optimized websites and dedicated apps. These platforms are licensed outside the United States and remain available to Californians, even though they are not regulated by California authorities.

Some of the most established offshore betting apps available to California players include:

  • Bovada
  • BetOnline
  • MyBookie
  • BetUS
  • Sportsbetting.ag

These sites offer full mobile functionality, including live betting, parlays, player props, and crypto deposits. Most do not require a separate app download, as their mobile websites function like native apps directly in your browser.

For a deeper comparison of features, bonuses, and mobile performance, see our California betting apps guide.

Start Betting In California Today — Our Guides

If you’ve somehow landed on this page as an inexperienced (or first-time) bettor, then you’re in good hands.

Start-Betting-In-California-our-guides

We have in-depth guides to all things betting. At first, it may seem confusing, but we can assure you, it’s not that bad, especially if you read through our writings. The following five guides are good starting points in your betting journey too:

Payment Methods Available For California Sportsbooks

Offshore betting sites accept a full gamut of payment methods these days, including credit cards, debit cards, checks, and crypto.. The latter is unique because again, regulated bookmakers can’t touch crypto with a ten-foot pole. Only offshore betting sites support crypto coins. Here are some reasons why crypto is so popular:

  • Card declines are common: Some California banks block gambling transactions, which is why debit or credit card deposits may fail even when the sportsbook accepts them.
  • Why many players use crypto: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are popular because they face fewer banking blocks and often come with faster payout processing.
  • Typical payout speeds: Crypto withdrawals can process within a few hours to 24 hours, while bank wires and checks may take several business days.
  • Test small withdrawals first: We recommend making a small withdrawal after your first deposit to confirm processing times before wagering larger amounts.

Payment-Methods-Available-For-California-Sportsbooks

Here are quick links to more pages on offshore payment methods:

  • VISA — the co-most popular card accepted on betting sites.
  • Mastercard — the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
  • Bitcoin — the payment method that'll earn you the most free play.
  • Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method.

For a full breakdown of deposit limits, fees, and processing times, see our sports betting payment methods guide.

California Casinos And Resorts

California-Casinos-And-Resorts

There are several tribal casinos serving California. A lot! But then again, the state has a large land mass so they end up spread out, from South to North.

NameCityTypePhone
Agua Caliente Casino Palm SpringsPalm SpringsTribal(800) 258‑2946
Agua Caliente Casino Rancho MirageRancho MirageTribal(760) 321‑2000
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral CityCathedral CityTribal888‑999‑1995
Augustine CasinoCoachellaTribal(760) 391‑9500
Barona Resort & CasinoLakesideTribal(619) 443‑2300
Bear River CasinoLoletaTribal1‑800‑761‑2327
Divine Oak Casino Resort (Konocti Vista)FinleyTribal(707) 262‑1900
Mono Wind CasinoAuberryTribal(559) 855‑4350
Wanaaha CasinoBishopTribal(760) 873‑4150
Fantasy Springs Resort CasinoIndioTribal(760) 342‑5000
Cahuilla CasinoAnzaTribal(909) 763‑1200
Golden Acorn CasinoCampoTribal(619) 938‑6000
Havasu Landing Resort & CasinoHavasu LakeTribal(760) 858‑4593
Cher-Ae Heights CasinoTrinidadTribal(707) 677‑0211
Coyote Valley CasinoRedwood ValleyTribal(707) 485‑0700
Lucky Bear CasinoHoopaTribal(530) 625‑4211
La Jolla Trading Post & CasinoPauma ValleyTribal(760) 742‑0460
San Pablo Lytton CasinoSan PabloTribal(510) 215‑7888
Garcia River CasinoPoint ArenaTribal(707) 467‑5300
Twin Pine CasinoMiddletownTribal(707) 987‑0197
Feather Falls Casino & LodgeOrovilleTribal(530) 533‑3885
Morongo Casino Resort & SpaCabazonTribal(909) 849‑3080
Pala Casino Spa ResortPalaTribal(760) 510‑5100
Rolling Hills CasinoCorningTribal(530) 528‑3500
Casino PaumaPauma ValleyTribal(760) 742‑2177
Pechanga Resort & CasinoTemeculaTribal(909) 693‑1819
Chukchansi Gold Resort & CasinoCoarsegoldTribal(559) 661‑3033
Pit River CasinoBurneyTribal(530) 335‑2334
Quechan Casino ResortWinterhavenTribal1‑888‑777‑4946
Win-River CasinoReddingTribal(530) 243‑3377
Harrah's Resort Southern CaliforniaValley CenterTribal(760) 751‑3100
Robinson Rancheria Resort & CasinoNiceTribal800‑809‑3636
Hidden Oaks CasinoCoveloTribal(707) 983‑6896
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San ManuelHighlandTribal(909) 864‑5050
Valley View CasinValley CenterTribal(760) 291-5500
Last updated on: March 4, 2026

Best Casinos Online in California

California best casinos online guide 2025

California is home to a thriving gambling scene, but when it comes to online casino California options, players must turn to international platforms. The state primarily targets local illegal bookies and unlicensed sites operating within California, while offshore sportsbooks are based abroad; they remain available to residents but are not regulated or protected by California authorities and still carry risk.

While the state has yet to legalize online casino gaming, residents can still enjoy real-money gambling at international casinos like Bovada, BetOnline, and BetUS. These offshore sites provide a way to access slots, poker, blackjack, and live dealer games, allowing players to experience the excitement of casino gaming from anywhere in the state. With user-friendly platforms, mobile compatibility, and secure payment methods, these California online casinos offer a seamless experience for both casual and high-stakes players.

For those seeking the best online casino California real money experience, these platforms offer generous welcome bonuses, frequent promotions, and a vast selection of games. Whether you're into online slots real money California or enjoy classic table games, these international casinos provide everything needed for an immersive gambling experience.

There are no California-licensed online casinos, as the state does not authorize or regulate real-money online casino platforms. Players who want to gamble online typically use offshore sites operating under foreign licenses, which are not regulated by California authorities and carry risk; for a full breakdown of offshore casino options and risks, see our online gambling and casinos guide.

Top Online Casino Promotions & Bonus Codes

A laptop screen displaying an online casino website in California with a banner promoting "Slots Games" every week. The navigation bar includes categories like Slots, Blackjack, Roulette, and Live Dealer. Several casino game thumbnails are shown below.

Below is a list of some of the best online casinos California real money players can access, along with their latest promotions:

CasinoWelcome bonusPromocodeWagering requirements
BetOnline100% up to $1000POKER100030x
BetUS200% up to $4000CAS20035x
BetNow200% up to $2500CASINO20025x
Bookmaker100% up to $1600BOOKMAKER40x
Bovada100% up to $3000CAWELCOME100 (1st deposit) / BV2NDCWD (2nd and 3rd)25x (1st) / 50x (2nd and 3rd)
EveryGame125% up to $1000SIGNUP100035x
MyBookie150% up to $750MYB15040x
Sportsbetting100% up to $1000NEWSB35x
WagerWeb50% up to $500 (progressive)--
XBet200% up to $500XBC20040x
Last updated on: March 4, 2026

History Of California Legalization Efforts

The progress with legal sports betting in California has been a relatively short journey. Here's how things broke down over the years.

First progress with the amendment in 2020

Within days of the PASPA ruling, California Assembly member Adam Gray announced his desire for a pro-sports betting amendment. Shortly after, California State Senator Bill Dodd joined the movement, planning to shape a bill for inclusion on the November ballot. The first sports betting hearing in California was held in January 2020, and it didn’t seem promising in terms of approval in 2020 at least.
Other states have a different approach toward sports betting. You can check out the full list of US states here.

It’s projected that sports betting in California could be worth $2.5 billion per year (including online betting revenue) in California, which is wild to think that there is even an ounce of hesitation from elected officials. There are a number of great sportsbooks near Los Angeles operating today, which provide a great range of betting markets and very competitive odds.

An initiative backed by 18 Native American tribes wants to limit sports betting to physical casinos and racetracks and ban online gambling in California. This is not a shared viewpoint shared with supporters of online sports betting websites.

2024 and looking forward

It’s assumed that sports betting won’t be legalized until at least 2027+ after two ballot measures in favor of sports betting were rejected in November 2022 and then none appeared during the 2024 state legislature meetings So, Californian sports bettors still have a little way to go before they can legally bet on sports in Californian casinos or sportsbooks.

Currently, gambling in the state is regulated and limited to card rooms, tribal casinos, the state lottery, horse racing, and charitable gaming. California has 69 Native American casinos, hosting 70,000 slot machines and more than two thousand table games.
The California State lottery includes Mega Millions and Powerball, which is always well received.

Horse racing is a big deal in California, which is home to Del Mar, Hollywood Park and Santa Anita tracks, making horse betting a huge revenue stream.

California's Tribal Initiatives to Legalize Sports Betting

The last ballot initiative that faced voters in November 2022 was a tribal initiative. It would have allowed for sports betting at tribal casinos and horse tracks throughout the state.
However, one of the major drawbacks of this initiative was that it would not allow for any online sports betting sites to be licensed in the state. Bettors would still have needed to use the same offshore sportsbooks they have been using, but no new ones would be licensed. The timeline set out by this initiative for mobile sports betting would be five years.
The problem is that California is huge, so getting to a tribal casino is not always practical. Plus, it would not extend sports betting to card rooms, which the tribes have argued violate their compacts. With all of this said, a November 2022 online sports betting bill also appeared on the California ballot. Both of these measures were rejected. Fast forward to 2024, and the legalization of California sports betting still appears to be years away.

Betting On California Sports Teams

As we said at the top, there’s no shortage of pro and collegiate teams in the Golden State. All the ones we were about to mention are widely available at the best offshore sportsbooks. Here’s what California teams are out there:

Betting On California NFL Teams

The NFL commands the most betting action by a large margin. Among the three California-based NFL teams, it’s the San Francisco 49ers that get the most looks. Los Angeles-based Rams and Chargers are getting there, but they don’t have the privilege of calling California home as long as the Niners have.

Betting On California MLB Teams

When it comes to all of California, the most popular team might just be the Los Angeles Dodgers. Therefore, they command their fair share of action in MLB betting. There’s also the San Francisco Giants, the San Diego Padres, and the Los Angeles Angels. The Oakland A’s will soon be leaving the state and going to Las Vegas.

Betting On California NBA Teams

Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings all fight for attention in California. But make no mistake about it, this state is divided in half, Lakers for the South and the Warriors in the North.

Betting On California NHL Teams

Hockey might not seem like a sport that would be popular in a cool-and-sunny weather state like California, but the sport has surprisingly caught on. Here, the LA Kings, Anaheim Ducks, and the San Jose Sharks all fight for attention and betting dollars.

Betting On California NCAA Teams

There are dozens upon dozens of college programs in California. No way we’re going to name them all, however, just know the USC Trojans and the UCLA Bruins are the “top dogs” among fans and bettors alike.

Other Types of Gambling in California

California does not allow state-regulated online sports betting, but residents still have access to several other legal gambling options. Below, we break down what is permitted, how it works, and where the limits are.

Tribal Casinos

California is home to dozens of federally recognized tribal casinos operating under compacts negotiated with the state. These properties offer full-scale casino gaming, including slot machines, blackjack, baccarat, and other house-banked table games.

Well-known examples include:

  • Pechanga Resort Casino
  • Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
  • San Manuel Casino

These casinos operate legally under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and approved tribal-state agreements. However, they do not offer statewide online casino gaming.

Cardrooms

Cardrooms are legal throughout California and are regulated at the state and local level. Unlike tribal casinos, cardrooms cannot offer traditional house-banked table games in the same way. Instead, they operate player-banked games where third-party providers cover the bank.

Major cardrooms include:

  • Commerce Casino
  • Hustler Casino

Cardrooms primarily focus on poker and modified table games that comply with California gambling law.

California State Lottery

The California State Lottery is fully legal and widely available. Players can purchase tickets for draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as scratch-off tickets at authorized retailers across the state.

Lottery proceeds support public education funding in California.

Horse Racing and Online Betting (ADW)

Horse race betting is legal in California, both in person and online through approved advance deposit wagering platforms, commonly known as ADWs. Bettors place pari-mutuel wagers at licensed racetracks or through state-authorized apps operating under California Horse Racing Board oversight.

Live racing takes place at venues such as Santa Anita Park and Del Mar Racetrack.

Online horse betting platforms allow users to fund accounts and wager on races remotely, and they represent the only clearly authorized form of online sports-related betting in the state. For a full breakdown of locations, rules, and OTB options, see our California horse racing and OTB guide.

Charitable Gaming

Certain nonprofit organizations are permitted to run bingo games and limited raffles under California law. These activities must follow strict rules regarding prize limits, frequency, and operational control. Profits must support charitable or community purposes.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

Daily Fantasy Sports contests are currently considered illegal sports wagering under a 2025 opinion issued by the California Attorney General, which concluded that both pick’em-style and traditional draft-style DFS contests fall within the definition of prohibited sports betting under California law. Several major DFS operators dispute this interpretation and have continued operating in the state, but the legal landscape remains unsettled and enforcement is still evolving.

Players should understand that DFS is not explicitly authorized under California gambling statutes, and under the Attorney General’s interpretation it aligns more closely with prohibited sports wagering. For a detailed breakdown of the opinion, operator responses, and what it means for players, see our DFS in California guide.

Offshore Gambling Sites

Because online sports betting is not regulated at the state level, many Californians turn to offshore sportsbooks and casino sites. These platforms are based outside the United States and are not licensed by California regulators.

While offshore sites accept California players, they operate in a legal gray area. They are not subject to California consumer protections, and disputes are handled according to the laws of the jurisdiction where the company is registered.

As always, we recommend understanding the legal and financial risks before signing up with any offshore operator.

How Californians Bet Online Today

While California does not license online sportsbooks, many residents who want to place sports bets use offshore sites that are available to Californians. These platforms are licensed outside the United States and operate outside California regulation. The typical process looks like this:

  1. Choose an offshore sportsbook that accepts California players.
  2. Register an account and complete basic verification.
  3. Make a deposit, usually by debit card, bank transfer, or cryptocurrency.
  4. Pick a sport and select your bet type, such as moneyline, spread, or total.
  5. Confirm the wager and place the bet.

This reflects how people currently bet online from California, even though these sportsbooks are offshore and not licensed by the state. For a full walkthrough with examples, see our How to Bet on Sports in California guide.

Important Note on VPN Use

Some players consider using a VPN to bypass geo-blocking restrictions, but this is typically against an operator’s terms and conditions. If a sportsbook detects VPN usage that violates its rules, it can suspend or permanently close the account and, in some cases, confiscate funds. Before attempting to access any betting site with a VPN, understand the risks involved and review the platform’s policies carefully.

For a full breakdown of how VPN use affects sports betting in the state, see our VPN sports betting in California guide.

Sports Betting Rules In Each State

Want a guide just like this for the other 49 states in the United States? We got you! Here are quick links to our most popular guides:

Responsible Gaming In California

Gamble responsibly: Gambling should be fun, not harmful. California tribal casinos provide responsible gaming tools like self-exclusion and support resources. If you need help, call the California Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-522-4700). Learn more at California problem gambling help.

For additional responsible gaming resources, consider: BeGambleAware, Problem Gambling Coalition, Gambling Therapy, and Addiction Center. You may also find the following websites helpful:

Gamble Aware (https://www.gambleaware.org/)

A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

International Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.icrg.org/)

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.

24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/about-the-national-problem-gambling-helpline/)

A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems.

California-specific ones:

California Council on Problem Gambling - https://calpg.org/

An organization to help gamblers escape via a variety of different help channels.

State of California Gambling Help - https://oag.ca.gov/gambling/responsible

A range of helpful documentation and organizations to help gamblers in the state.

National Problem Gambling Helpline - https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/help-by-state/california/ -

A few numbers that can help gamblers find help.

California Sports Betting FAQ

Meet the author

Eric Uribe

Born and raised in Nevada, Eric was exposed to the world of sports betting at an early age. He yearned to be 21 just to hit the sportsbook, and when that day finally came, he became a regular at the smoke-filled room, sweating out bets with sketchy characters. Eric'...

Online Sports Betting may receive compensation if you sign up through our links. Rest assured, we avoid biases and provide honest opinions on sportsbooks. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

Strictly 18+ Only, Please Bet Responsibly
Online Sports Betting © 2026 Strictly 18+ Only, Please Bet Responsibly