Florida

Florida technically legalized sports betting in 2021, but a legal battle between the state and local operators has kept the market in limbo ever since. As of now, only the Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock Bet app is available — and even that is limited to users physically located in Florida and registered with the platform.

For everyone else, options are slim. Retail sportsbooks aren’t open to the public, and no other online operators are licensed to take bets in the state.

Still, you’re not out of options. Offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie legally accept Florida residents, offering full betting menus, fast crypto banking, and reliable mobile apps. Below, we’ll break down what’s legal, how Hard Rock Bet works, and which trusted offshore sites give you the best experience right now.

Quick Florida Facts

StateFlorida
⚖️ Sports Betting LawsAvailable (limited to Seminole Tribe and Hard Rock Bet app)
👫 Population23 Million
👶 Min. Gambling Age21 (sports betting & casinos) or 18 (pari-mutuel horse racing & lottery)
🏙️ Retail BettingLimited (only at select tribal casinos)
🌐 Online BettingLimited (Hard Rock Bet only & tribal-run)
📱 Mobile BettingAvailable (only via Hard Rock Bet in Florida)
🐎 Online Horse BettingAvailable (pari-mutuel)
🏆 DFS (Daily Fantasy)Available (unregulated)

Is Sports Betting Legal In Florida?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Florida — but only through the Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock platform. No other sportsbook, including DraftKings or FanDuel, is currently allowed to operate in the state.

This exclusivity stems from a 30-year compact signed in 2021 between the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe, which owns the Hard Rock brand. Under this agreement, the Seminoles were granted exclusive rights to offer sports betting both online and at their retail locations.

The legality of this deal was immediately challenged. A group of opponents took the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing the compact violated state and federal laws. In June 2024, the Supreme Court declined to hear the case, effectively upholding the compact. As a result, the Hard Rock Bet app now operates with exclusive authority in Florida, and no competing sportsbooks can enter the market unless voters approve it through a constitutional amendment.

Currently, to place a legal bet via Hard Rock Bet, you must be physically located in Florida and verified through geolocation. Although betting is mobile-friendly, the platform’s availability has at times been restricted to users near tribal casino locations — limiting access for many Floridians living far from those areas.

This has opened the door for offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie, which are based in foreign jurisdictions where online betting is legal. Because they operate outside U.S. law, these sites can legally accept Florida players and allow betting from anywhere in the state without physical restrictions.

For Floridians who want a full sportsbook experience without visiting a tribal casino, offshore sites provide a convenient and accessible alternative.

Jul 02, 2025 08:08 AM

Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett has surged from a longshot to the betting favorite for the Conn Smythe Trophy as Stanley Cup Playoffs MVP, overtaking defending winner Connor McDavid and veteran Brad Marchand at most sportsbooks.

Florida Sports Betting Timeline

It's been a long, windy road to get Florida betting legalized. Here's a year-by-year recap of what's happened:

2025

May 11, 2025 - A Florida Senate committee approved a bill to ban sweepstakes gaming and toughen penalties for illegal gambling.

April 17, 2025 - Florida gambling addiction hotline sees spike in calls linked to online sports betting.
 
March 21, 2025 - The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida dismissed all charges against Lottery.com, including fraudulent misrepresentation, negligent misrepresentation, conspiracy, and aiding and abetting.
 
February 7, 2025 - The Florida gaming commission issued three cease-and-desist letters to offshore operators accepting illegal wagers in the state. 
 
January 3, 2025 - A Florida bettor transformed a $25 wager on a 14-leg passing touchdown player prop parlay into over $100,000 through Hard Rock Bet.

2024

December 21, 2024 - Hard Rock Bet has partnered with Duffy's Sports Grill to explore a variety of marketing opportunities, aiming to enhance brand visibility and engagement within the sports betting market.
 
November 11, 2024 - Florida’s Seminole Tribe announced a partnership with West Flagler, concluding their extended legal dispute over control of the state’s online gambling market.
 
October 1, 2024 - Hard Rock international chairman and Seminole Gaming CEO Jim Allen discusses potential "strategic relationship" with FanDuel and DraftKings in Florida.
 
September 11, 2024 - Miami Dolphins face the Buffalo Bills on Thursday Night Football in Week 2—don't miss the latest Sportsbook promo codes ahead of the game from online sportsbooks like BetUS and BetOnline, which remain your best option for betting in Florida. You'll find high bonuses, competitive odds and tens of thousands of markets to bet on every day!
 
August 14, 2024 - Florida's lottery landscape is set to expand with the anticipated launch of theLotter, an online lottery courier service. This new platform will enable Florida residents to purchase lottery tickets through the internet, potentially increasing accessibility and convenience for lottery participants across the state.

 
August 3, 2024 - The hopes of Florida Sports Betting fans who are eagerly waiting for legalized sports betting were dealt a blow when a new lawsuit was filed that could block the legislation for years. We are waiting for the State Supreme Court to weigh in and decide the future road map of legal sports betting in the Sunshine State. 
 
June 13, 2024 - The Supreme Court denies West Flagler's challenge to Seminole Tribe's exclusive gambling compact, ensuring the deal stays intact until 2051.
 
May 29, 2024  The Supreme Court's decision to hear or not hear the case on legal Florida sports betting is slated June 13, 2024.
 
March 21, 2024  The Seminole Tribe's sports betting operations received support when the Florida Supreme Court rejected a petition contesting the gambling compact. Despite this setback, West Flagler continues to explore alternative legal options to challenge the compact.
 
January 13, 2024 - Following the reinstatement of sports betting in Florida, numerous bills have surfaced regarding daily fantasy sports in the Sunshine State.

2023

December 1, 2023 - West Flagler's attempt to pause Florida's sports betting market was turned down by the state's Supreme Court, permitting wagering operations to proceed without hindrance.
 
November 3, 2023 - The Seminole Tribe intends to start in-person sports betting and offer craps and roulette at its six Florida casinos, subject to regulatory approval.
 
October 2, 2023 - In an attempt to stop sports betting from becoming legal in Florida, West Flagler has turned to the Supreme Court of Florida to file a constitutional challenge against it.
 
September 4, 2023 - The US Department of the Interior rejected West Flagler Associates' petition for an en banc rehearing of their sports betting case, calling it "unwarranted."
 
August 3, 2023 - The National Indian Gaming Commission reported that the region of Florida and surrounding states generated $9 billion in gambling revenue for 2022, representing a 10.8% increase compared to the prior year's total of $8.1 billion.
 
July 4, 2023 - Florida's future in legal sports betting remains uncertain as the public eagerly awaits a court ruling. The outcome could be influenced by a recent decision from the Supreme Court.
 
June 11, 2023 - The conclusion of Florida's 2023 legislative session brought disappointing news for those hoping for the legalization of sports betting. Unfortunately, no progress was made on this front.
 
May 5, 2023 - DraftKings has launched its latest mobile application, DK Horse, which arrives just in time for the upcoming Kentucky Derby on May 6th. The new app is now up for grabs in Florida.
 
March 17, 2023 - As lobbyists advocate for the legalization of mobile betting, state representatives are analyzing its widespread success throughout the country.
 
February 24, 2023 - The court of appeals is considering whether the Seminole Tribe should have the right to manage sports betting in Florida.
 
January 17, 2023 - In 2023, there is sure to be an intense legal fight over sports betting in Florida.

2022

December 15, 2022 - Florida's sports betting decision is anticipated for 2023.
 
December 1, 2022 - Florida's media and betting businesses saw a 5.7% boost in online sports betting revenue in 2022.
 
November 14, 2022 - The Seminole Tribe aims to participate in the upcoming Florida sports betting case.
 
October 21, 2022 - Controversial figure Pete Rose opens betting at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati.
 
October 26, 2022 - Florida's Department of Interior seeks to legalize sports betting and collaborate with the Seminole Tribe, involving the federal court system.
 
September 27, 2022 - The federal government, representing the Department of Interior, filed a response regarding the gaming compact between the Seminole Tribe of Florida and Governor Ron DeSantis.
 
August 8, 2022 - Legal disputes caused delays in casino deals related to sports betting.
 
August 21, 2022 - The Biden Administration's involvement affects Florida's sports betting situation.
 
July 29, 2022 - Brandt Iden, Head of Government Affairs in the US, predicts Florida's sports betting might reach the Supreme Court, potentially lasting until 2024.
 
June 12, 2022 - Former WSOP bracelet winner Cory Zeidman faces charges linked to a $25 million sports betting scheme.
 
June 5, 2022 - A Florida man defrauds millions of people in a sports betting Ponzi scheme.
 
May 13, 2022 - California tribes halt a mobile betting ballot initiative due to criticism.
 
May 11, 2022 - US casinos achieve record-breaking wins of $5.3 billion, with Americans betting $57.7 billion on sports in 2021, more than double the 2020 figure.

Best Sportsbooks In Each Category

Best overallBetUS
Best bonusesBetUS
Most unique bonusesBetNow
Top VIP programMyBookie
Best reputationBovada
Best sportsbookBetOnline
Best casinoEverygame
Best mobile appXBet
Best for new playersBovada
Best for high rollersBetUS
Best up-and-coming sportsbookXBet
Last updated on: July 2, 2025

Top 7 Sports Betting Sites

If we had to pick only 7 offshore sportsbooks for Florida-based bettors, it would be these:

  1. Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
  2. BetUS - Extensive range of betting options across multiple sports.
  3. XBet - Quick payouts and responsive customer support.
  4. BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
  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 Bovada

Bovada Website Preview
Our score: 4.3/5
Play now on Bovada
Pros
Reputable name
Simple, straightforward experience
Cons
Sportsbook bonuses are cheap
Bovada is one of the most trusted offshore sportsbooks for Florida players. It’s been around since the early 2010s and built a strong reputation for reliability and ease of use. The site is clean and beginner-friendly, with betting markets on everything from NFL and NBA to cricket and esports. Odds are competitive, and the platform runs smoothly on both desktop and mobile. Deposits are available via credit card and crypto, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. Crypto is also the fastest withdrawal method, typically processed within 24 hours. Check and bank wire options exist but take longer and may come with fees. If you want a simple, trustworthy sportsbook with full coverage and fast payouts, Bovada is a strong pick.

#2 BetUS

BetUS Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
Play now on BetUS
Pros
Biggest free-play bonuses
Well-stocked betting menu
Cons
Free play expires in seven days
High rollover requirement
BetUS is best known for its massive bonuses. No other sportsbook comes close. The welcome offer can go over $3,000 in free play, and their referral bonus can reach up to $6,000. These numbers aren’t typical — they’re in a league of their own. Promos change regularly, but the payouts stay big. Whether it’s a deposit match, free spins, or cashback offers, BetUS constantly pushes value for new and returning players. The site itself covers everything: sports, casino, poker, and horse racing. Odds are competitive, and there’s no shortage of bet types or markets to explore. Deposits are easy through credit cards, crypto, or person-to-person methods. Bitcoin and Ethereum are accepted and often recommended due to faster processing and higher limits. For withdrawals, crypto is also the fastest route — often within 24 hours. Checks and wires are available but take longer and may include fees. If you’re chasing big bonuses and full betting coverage, BetUS is hard to beat.

#3 XBet

Xbet Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
Play now on Xbet
Pros
Excellent mobile app
Error-free live betting system
Cons
Bonuses and contests are plain
Could use more casino games
XBet has one of the best mobile betting apps available today. While Florida’s official Hard Rock Bet app feels average at best, XBet delivers a modern, fast, and easy-to-navigate experience that’s clearly designed with mobile users in mind. The interface looks great and performs even better. Navigation is smooth, lag is almost nonexistent, and everything loads quickly — even during live games. XBet also handles in-play betting extremely well, with live odds that stay closely synced to the action. Deposits are simple, with support for credit cards and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Crypto is also the fastest way to withdraw, usually processed within 24 hours. Other methods are available but can take longer and may include fees. If you value design, speed, and reliability in your sportsbook app, XBet is a top-tier option for Florida bettors.

#4 BetOnline

BetOnline Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
Play now on BetOnline
Pros
Massive sportsbook menu
Well-priced betting lines
Cons
Needs more contests
BetOnline has one of the deepest sportsbooks available to Florida bettors. It covers all major sports like NFL, NBA, and MLB, but also offers odds on niche events like cricket, rugby, and even ping pong. If you’re looking for variety, it’s all here. The bet types are just as impressive. From moneylines and spreads to player props and futures, BetOnline offers a wide selection across most sports. UFC and NFL, in particular, come loaded with prop options that many competitors skip. Odds are sharp too. BetOnline regularly matches or beats other platforms in pricing, which gives Florida bettors solid value on their wagers. It’s a sportsbook that rewards smart betting, not just frequent betting. Deposits can be made with credit cards, crypto, or bank transfers. Bitcoin and Ethereum are popular for their speed and higher limits. For withdrawals, crypto is the fastest method and usually processes within 24 hours. Checks and bank wires are also available but take longer and may come with fees. For complete sports coverage and competitive odds, BetOnline is one of the best all-in-one sportsbooks you can use.

#5 BetNow

BetNow Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
Play now on BetNow
Pros
Bonus options galore
Only sportsbook rebate
Cons
Betting lines can be less forgiving
BetNow stands out in a crowded market by doing something rare — offering real variety. Most sportsbooks stick to a single bonus offer. BetNow gives you four different sign-up bonuses, three reload deals, and three rebate programs. That kind of flexibility is hard to find. The most unique offer is the sportsbook rebate. BetNow gives you back two percent on net sports betting losses every week. It’s not huge, but it’s consistent and something few, if any, other sportsbooks offer. Beyond promotions, BetNow covers everything you'd expect in a sportsbook and casino. Betting options are always available, whether you’re into major sports or casino play. The platform is simple and dependable, with no major gaps in coverage. Florida players can deposit using credit cards, Bitcoin, or other crypto options. Crypto is also the fastest way to withdraw, usually within 24 hours. Traditional methods like checks or bank wires are slower and may include fees. If you want a sportsbook with flexible promos and solid betting coverage, BetNow delivers.

#6 MyBookie

MyBookie Website Preview
Our score: 4.1/5
Play now on MyBookie
Pros
Top-notch VIP program
Complimentary casino and sportsbook
Cons
VIP program is invitation only
Platform could use a redesign
MyBookie earns its spot on this list thanks to its VIP program. Unlike most sportsbooks that offer open rewards systems, MyBookie’s version is invite-only. It works like a Vegas-style comp system — you earn points every time you bet, and those points can be converted into bonus cash. This setup favors high-volume bettors. If you’re betting big or often, you’ll have a better shot at receiving an invite. For casual players, it might not be the ideal fit, but for long-term bettors, the ongoing value can far outweigh a one-time bonus. Beyond the VIP perks, MyBookie offers a full sportsbook, a loaded casino, and a racebook. That range gives you more ways to bet and more opportunities to earn rewards if you’re part of the program. Deposits are accepted via credit cards and crypto like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Crypto is also the fastest and most reliable withdrawal method, typically processed within 24 hours. Checks and bank wires are slower and may include fees. If you’re a committed bettor looking for long-term rewards, MyBookie’s VIP experience is worth aiming for.

#7 Everygame

EveryGame Website Preview
Our score: 3.8/5
Play now on EveryGame
Pros
Huge menu of soccer bets
Multiple casinos
Cons
Bonuses are rather cheap
Everygame has been around for decades, previously operating under the name Intertops. It built its reputation in Europe before rebranding, and the platform has only improved since then. As a European sportsbook, Everygame does things a little differently. Promotions often include unique offers like insurance on soccer draws or event-specific bonuses you won’t find elsewhere. Soccer is where Everygame really stands out. The coverage is deep — from the English Premier League to obscure leagues like Belarus or Kazakhstan. If soccer betting is your focus, Everygame is one of the most complete options out there. Florida players can deposit using credit cards, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are fastest through crypto, usually completed in under 48 hours. Bank transfers and checks are available but slower and may have higher limits and fees. For international sports fans — especially soccer bettors — Everygame is a strong, reliable pick.

Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Ceasars?

As we mentioned before, only the Seminole Tribe has the right to operate a sportsbook in Florida thanks to a compact agreement made with state lawmakers. That singles out popular bookies like BetMGM or FanDuel from operating. This compact is in place until 2051, which casts doubt on other sportsbooks ever joining the fray in Florida.

There is a small glimmer of hope they are allowed in Florida though. However, commercial operators would need to be voted in by Florida citizens in true ballot form. This is partially why there’s been so much controversy with the Seminole Tribe — they skipped out on the democratic process when getting their exclusive license. And if DraftKings or FanDuel ever do push to enter the state, you better believe the Seminoles will fight tooth and nail against it. They have a deep enough “war chest” of money to play defense too so don’t bank on its monopoly ending anytime soon.

Betting On Politics, Esports, Entertainment In Florida

Here’s one major thing that separates offshore sportsbooks from commercial sportsbooks: the betting markets. Offshore sites simply offer more betting lines that licensed platforms can’t even touch. You notice this when you go away from “traditional” sports.

For example, betting on the 2024 US presidential election outcome is only possible on offshore sites. That’s because there are usually state laws against betting on non-sport outcomes. So you won’t ever find Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump odds on Hard Rock Bet. The same goes for entertainment (e.g. who will win the Oscars awards) or esports.

Betting Apps In Florida

We touched on this before when talking about XBet but it bears repeating: the Hard Rock Bet mobile app is nothing to write home about. Offshore betting apps are better-made more often than not. Best of all, though, offshore apps allow for betting anywhere in Florida (Hard Ridk only works on native casinos).

We have a specially-made guide for betting apps in Florida. This article goes deeper into which apps are most worth your time AND money.

Start Betting In Florida Today — Our Guides

Now that you know the Florida betting scene, you should get familiar with betting in general. As in how to actually make money at this thing. We got you covered here with different betting guides. Start by reading these five:

Payment Methods Available For Florida Sportsbooks

Offshore betting apps support many different payment methods. Crypto stands out though but here again, it’s an offshore-only option (licensed apps aren’t allowed to take in coins). Here are mini-guides to the most-used payment methods on offshore platforms, including crypto:

  • 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 at most places.
  • Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method that works with the majority of banks.

Florida Casinos & Resorts

There are quite a few casinos in Florida, including tribal casinos owned by the Seminole tribe, racinos which boast horse and greyhound racing, and casino boats (yes, for you riverboat gamblers out there). The biggest ones are the world-famous Hard Rock Tampa Casino, Mardi Gras Casino, and Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino. Here's a comprehensive list of locations around the Sunshine State:

Name and CityAddressType
Big Easy Casino in Hallandale Beach FL831 N Federal HwyRacino
Calder Casino & Race Course in Miami Gardens FL21001 NW 27th AveRacino
Casino Miami Jai-Alai in Miami FL3500 NW 37th AveRacino
Creek Entertainment Gretna in Gretna FL501 Racetrack DriveRacino
Dania Jai-Alai in Dania Beach FL301 E Dania Beach BlvdRacino
Daytona Beach Racing and Card Club in Daytona Beach FL960 S Williamson BlvdRacino
Derby Lane in St. Petersburg FL10490 Gandy Blvd NRacino
Ebro Greyhound Track in Ebro FL10490 Gandy Blvd NRacino
Flagler Dog Track and Magic City Casino in Miami FL450 NW 37th AveRacino
Fort Pierce Jai-Alai & Poker in Fort Pierce FL1750 S Kings HwyRacino
Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino in Hallandale Beach FL901 S Federal HwyRacino
Hialeah Park Race Track in Hialeah FL2200 E 4th AveRacino
Jacksonville Kennel Club in Orange Park FL455 Park AveRacino
Jefferson County Kennel Club in Monticello FL3079 N Jefferson HwyRacino
Mardi Gras Casino (The Big Easy Casino) in Hallandale FL831 N Federal HwyRacino
Melbourne Greyhound Park in Melbourne FL1100 N Wickham RdRacino
Naples/Fort Myers Greyhound Track in Bonita Springs FL10601 Bonita Beach Rd SERacino
Ocala Poker & Jai-Alai in Ocala FL4601 W Hwy 318Racino
Orange Park Kennel Club in Orange Park FL455 Park AveRacino
Orange City Racing & Card Club in Orange City FL822-4 Saxon BlvdRacino
Oxford Downs in Summerfield FL17996 US-301Racino
Palm Beach Kennel Club in West Palm Beach FL1111 N Congress AveRacino
Pensacola Greyhound Track in Pensacola FL951 Dog Track RdRacino
Pompano Park in Pompano FL1660 NE 10th StRacino
Sarasota Kennel Club in Sarasota FL5400 Bradenton RdRacino
Tampa Bay Downs in Tampa FL11225 Race Track RoadRacino
Tampa Greyhound Track in Tampa FL755 E Waters AveRacino
Miccosukee Resort and Gaming Center in Miami FL500 S.W. 177th AvenueTribal
Seminole Casino Big Cypress in Clewiston FL1 W Boundary RdTribal
Seminole Casino Brighton in Okeechobee FLRoute 6 Box 611Tribal
Seminole Casino Immokalee in Immokalee FL506 South 1st StreetTribal
Seminole Casino Coconut Creek in Coconut Creek5550 NW 40th StreetTribal
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa in Tampa FL5223 N. Orient RoadTribal
Seminole Classic Casino in Hollywood FL4150 N. State Road 7Tribal
Victory Casino Cruises in Cape Canaveral FLB 2 180 Christopher Columbus DrShips
Victory Casino Cruises in Jacksonville FL180 Christopher Columbus DrShips
Last updated on: July 2, 2025

Best Casinos Online in Florida

A smartphone screen showcases the Florida state flag with "Florida Best Casinos Online" overlaying it. The backdrop features popular online casino games, while a discreet logo reads "OnlineSportsBetting.net," hinting at the excitement of online sports betting in Florida.

 

Florida residents looking for online casino Florida real money options can legally access international gaming platforms. While the state has not yet regulated online casino gambling, players can enjoy real-money wagering at international casinos like BetUS, BetOnline, and Wagerweb. These offshore sites offer a secure and legal alternative to in-state gambling, providing access to slots, blackjack, poker, roulette, and live dealer games. With smooth mobile compatibility, multiple payment methods, and competitive promotions, these Florida online casinos allow players to experience high-quality gaming from the comfort of home.

Unlike land-based casinos, which require travel, these online casinos Florida allow players to instantly access their favorite games 24/7. Whether you’re interested in online blackjack Florida, progressive jackpot slots, or interactive live dealer tables, these platforms cater to every type of gambler. Plus, with lucrative deposit bonuses and reload promotions, new and returning players alike can take advantage of added value on their wagers.

Top Online Casino Promotions & Bonus Codes

A tablet displaying an online casino website offers 100 free spins for new players. The page shows colorful slots games with titles like Fruit Mania and Mr. Vegas. A banner above features a leprechaun and a rabbit surrounded by gold coins.

To help Florida players maximize their online casino experience, here are some of the best welcome bonuses currently available:

CasinoWelcome BonusBonus CodeWagering Requirement
BetOnline100% up to $1000BOLCASINO30x
BetUS150% up to $5000BETUS15035x
BetNow100% up to $1000BETNOW10030x
BookMaker100% up to $1600BOOKMAKER40x
Bovada100% up to $3000BOVCASINO25x
Everygame125% up to $1000EVERYGAME35x
MyBookie200% up to $1500MYBCASINO40x
Sportsbetting100% up to $1000SBCASINO35x
WagerWeb100% up to $1000WAGERWEB30x
Xbet200% up to $500XBET20050x
Last updated on: July 2, 2025

History of Florida Legalization Efforts

Many states are struggling to reach agreements with tribes who run the casinos, and ensuring that both parties can come to a mutually beneficial arrangement before they legalize sports betting within the state.

In this case, however, Florida's governor brokered a sports betting monopoly with the Seminole tribe. No other tribe or commercial operator is allowed to open or run their sportsbook inside the state. This was recently upheld by the Supreme COurt too so there's no going back on the agreement now.

Florida Sports Betting Timeline

2019 and the start of things

In 2019, the state pledged to shut down designated player games at pari-mutuel facilities if the Seminole tribe would increase their state payment to $500 million. Governor Ron DeSantis refused to sign the agreement, and the tribe ceased their current $330 million payments to the state. Without the payments from the Seminole tribe, the need for sports betting has been even greater to make up for that lost revenue.

Florida is home to eight professional sports teams, and several Division I collegiate teams. With 21 million people living in Florida, it’s a destination for sunshine and sports for some, so officials would be wise to get on top of sports betting and start reeling in revenue from locals and visitors alike.

2021 Almost there

This could be why Florida reached an agreement on sports betting with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. They are able to deploy both retail and mobile sports betting starting in 2021.

Florida’s gambling laws are regulated and all legal gambling includes casino gaming, tribal gambling, casino boats, horse racing, dog racing, Bingo, the state lottery, and charitable gambling. The casino boats are interesting because they allow bettors to board luxury boats that travel offshore where gambling is technically not illegal.

There are eight tribal casinos in the state of Florida, with the Seminole tribe owning seven. Florida is home to plenty of horse racing tracks, which allows bettors to go watch and bet the races – especially the thoroughbreds at Calder Race Course, Gulfstream Park, and Tampa Bay Downs. Horse racing sites like TwinSpires and TVG also operate within the state.

2024 And Beyond

Sports betting in Florida is, in fact, legal as of April 2024. However, the matter is still pending litigation. The Supreme Court of the United States is now deciding to whether hear a case brought by West Flagler Associates, a gaming operator based in Florida, that alleges the Seminole tribe's exclusive gaming compact with the state violates the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

It's also worth noting the because of the current Florida sports betting agreement, gambling is only offered by Seminole tribe operations—mainly, their Florida online sports betting app and casinos. That's unlikely to change before 2026.

Betting on Florida Sports Teams

There are plenty of teams in Florida that you can place a bet on. There are at least two teams for every professional sport in Florida – two must be their lucky number.

Betting on the NFL

For starters, in the NFL, there are three Florida-based teams: the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Miami Dolphins. Tampa Bay won a Super Bowl behind Tom Brady in 2021, but the state has largely been held down by Miami, who had an impressive run in the '70s and through the ''90s.

Betting on the NBA

In the NBA, there are two professional teams: The Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic, both of which are in the Southeast Division. The Heat just had their 30th anniversary, and have won three NBA Finals – two of which under LeBron James’ reign. The Orlando Magic are without a championship, but are no strangers to the playoffs.

Betting on the MLB

If baseball is your sport, you can bet on one of the two MLB teams in Florida. The Miami Marlins have two World Series wins but have done so with never having won a division title. How? Both times they made it to the World Series as a wild card team. The Tampa Bay Rays are one of the younger and more exciting MLB teams.

Betting on the NHL

If you want to bet on the puck line, The Tampa Bay Lightning is one of the NHL teams you are able to bet on in Florida. The team was founded in 1992 and had a slow start, but finally, they captured their first and only title (so far) in 2003-2004. The other NHL team you can put some money on (or against) is the Florida Panthers, who haven’t been known to be a strong team, except for the 1996 season where they made it to the Stanley Cup Finals and lost.

Betting on sports is easy and convenient when using an online sportsbook in Florida. Check out our thoroughly vetted sportsbook reviews and get in on the action today

Other Types Of Betting In Florida

So far, we’ve mostly focused on sports betting. However, we’re here to tell you other forms of betting are also on the table inside the Sunshine State.

Let’s begin with horse-betting, which is fully legal. Bets can be had at local tracks like Gulfstream Park, Tampa Bay Downs, or Hialeah Park, among others. Offshore betting apps, however, allow you to bet from the comfort of your computer or phone if you’d rather save on gas money driving to the local horse track.

Then there are daily fantasy sports. In 2024, a piece of legislation was floated around, attempting to ban DFS — saying it violated the state’s compact with the Seminoles. However, it didn’t pass and DFS remains legal stateside. Many operators like PrizePicks or Betr serve that segment of fantasy sports wagering.

Casino gambling is only legal inside Hard Rock establishments — this includes slots and table games. It’s part of the same compact that governs sports wagering. However, all the offshore bookies we covered on this page also have casino counterparts in case you want to skirt those rules too.

Florida Betting Resources

Sports Betting Rules In Each State

Responsible Gaming In Florida

Betting responsibly is essential to ensure that gambling remains a fun and entertaining activity rather than a source of stress and financial hardship. It’s important to set a budget before you start betting and most importantly, stick to it. Many bettors find ways to talk themselves out of it and pull “just a few more dollars” — and spoiler alert: that’s a sign things are starting to go off the rails.

A budget is one boundary that has to be set to keep things responsible, however, there are others too. Other common ones include setting time limits on your betting activities or avoiding betting when under the influence of alcohol or emotions (e.g. after a tough loss). It's on bettors to decide which rules are right for them, but we just wanted to share some ideas.

We do want to provide a few resources beyond us in case you or someone you know ever needs it. Here are several links that can assist problem gamblers:

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.

Florida-specific resources:

Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) (https://gamblinghelp.org)

A 24/7 confidential helpline (888-ADMIT-IT) offering support, information, and treatment referrals for individuals experiencing gambling issues in Florida.

Florida Department of Children and Families – Problem Gambling Services (https://www.myflfamilies.com)

Provides resources and referrals for gambling addiction treatment within Florida, offering assistance to individuals and families impacted by problem gambling.

Gambling Addiction Treatment at University of Florida (https://ufhealth.org)

Offers specialized programs for individuals dealing with gambling addiction, providing both outpatient and inpatient treatment options in Florida.