Deciding which bet to place is hard, but picking the right California sports betting site is even harder. The good news is that our experts have ranked the top online sportsbooks for Californians.
Intrigued? Check out 15 sites for sports betting in California that are worth your attention, thanks to competitive odds, strong promotions, and coverage of all major sporting events.
Best California Sports Betting Sites
| Bovada | Up to $750 | Same Day – Few Days |
| BetOnline | Up to $250 | Same Day |
| Everygame | Up to $1,000 | Near Instant – Few Days |
| MyBookie | 100% up to $500 | Same Day – Few Days |
| BetWhale | 200% up to $6,000 | Near Instant – Few Days |
| XBet | Up to $200 | 12 Hours – Several Days |
| BetAnything | Up to $750 | 2 – 6 Business Days |
| Sportsbetting | Up to $250 | Same Day |
| BUSR | 100% up to $1,500 | 2 Business Days |
| BetUS | 100% up to $2,000 | Same Day |
| VoltageBet | 100% up to $1,000 | 3-5 Business Days |
| Thunderpick | 100% up to $600 | Same Day |
| MyStake | 3+1 Freebet | Up to 3 Business Days |
| Jackbit | 100% up to $100 | Near Instant – Same Day |
| Vave | 100% up to 1 BTC | 5 Minutes – Few Weeks |
Now you know the top 15 California online sports betting sites on our radar, but let us tell you exactly how these California sportsbooks got on our list.
California Sports Betting Status
California has talked about sports betting for years, but nothing has made it across the finish line. Voters have seen ballot measures come and go, with big money campaigns on both sides, yet every attempt has failed so far. For now, there are no regulated sportsbooks in the state—online or retail. That makes CA one of the biggest untapped markets in the country.
Fantasy sports are still around, though they live in a bit of a gray area. People continue to play on platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel without much interference. Horse racing is fully legal and overseen by the state, while tribal casinos and licensed cardrooms carry on with their usual games. None of them, however, is allowed to take sports bets.
The push for legal sports betting California isn’t going away. Billions of dollars are at stake, and both tribes and outside operators want a piece. Recent proposals included mobile wagering, with the promise of regulated apps, but voters weren’t convinced. Online sports betting California will likely return to the ballot at some point, though nobody can say when.
In the meantime, California sports betting news is featuring a new loophole in the form of prediction markets, which have recently emerged to rock the industry. These online exchanges give Californians the chance to trade “contracts” or make “investments” on the outcomes of sports events, as well as parlays and prop bets.
What makes prediction markets a veritable loophole is that they do not have licensing or taxation, which is the opposite of regulated sportsbook apps and sites. Some tribal gaming groups and various states are contesting the legal status of these markets, which may possibly affect the further investment and efforts toward the future legislation of California sports betting.
| Category | Status in California |
| Online Sports Betting | Illegal |
| Retail Sportsbooks | Illegal |
| Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) | Legal (Gray Area) |
| Horse Racing Betting | Legal |
| Tribal Casinos & Cardrooms | Legal (Casino Games Only) |
| Neighbouring States With Legal Betting | Nevada, Arizona, Oregon |
Where to Bet on Sports in California
Take a look at our in-depth reviews on top-tier sites where you can enjoy sports wagering in California.
1. Bovada – Best Online Sports Betting California Site
Pros
- Up to $750 welcome bonus
- Great live betting options and markets
- Daily select boosted parlays every week
- Trusted sportsbook with 10+ years of experience
- Fast crypto payouts (often same day)
Cons
- Lower deposit match for fiat money users
- Bank transfers can take a few business days
At the top of our list of online betting California sites is Bovada, and for good reason. This California-friendly sportsbook offers a bit of everything — solid odds, a clean mobile site, fast withdrawals, and a reputation that’s hard to match.
Sports Markets and Betting Odds 4.9/5
One of the things Bovada nails is its coverage of prop bets and futures. You’ll find markets on everything from NFL passing yards to who’ll headline the next Super Bowl halftime show. Odds are generally competitive, especially in major U.S. sports, with reduced juice available on select matchups.
Live wagering is also a strong point at the best California sports betting site. The interface is clean and responsive, and you can build bets fast — even while the game is underway.
Mobile bettors can also place and track their bets straight from the site (no need for a California betting app!), with the bet slip always just a tap away.
Bonus Deals and Promotions 4.95/5
Bovada’s welcome bonus isn’t the biggest, but it’s fair and consistent. You’ll get a 75% sports bonus up to $750 with your first crypto deposit using the bonus code BTCSWB750 or a 50% bonus up to $250 if you use Visa or Mastercard. Both come with low rollover requirements, making them easier to actually cash out.
What really sets Bovada apart, though, is its Parlay Booster. You can rack up Reward Points by betting on featured boosted parlays, and each qualifying bet earns you a shot at weekly prize draws.
Loyalty also pays off thanks to the Bovada Rewards program. Every real-money bet earns you points, which you can later exchange for cash bonuses or other perks.
Payment Methods and Payout Speeds 4.9/5
If you’re using crypto, Bovada is one of the fastest sportsbooks around. Bitcoin and other coins are usually processed the same day, and there are no extra payout fees. Traditional options like Visa are available too, but only for deposits.
Non-crypto users can withdraw using vouchers, bank wire transfers, or checks by courier, though these can take a few days.
Get a $750 sports bonus [Bovada]
2. BetOnline – Best Welcome Bonus of All CA Sports Betting Sites
Pros
- 0x wager bonus worth up to $250
- Odds boosts are offered daily
- Excellent props and parlay bets
- Regular tournaments and contests
- $50 risk-free live bet
Cons
- Sportsbook interface needs a face-lift
- Only a few fiat banking options
If you usually avoid claiming bonus deals because you don’t have the time or desire to complete wagering requirements, BetOnline could prove a saving grace. New players are greeted with bonus bets that have no wagering requirements!
Sports Markets and Betting Odds 4.8/5
As with many other sites in our top 10, BetOnline puts a lot of focus on professional leagues and championships nationwide. Therefore, you’ll never be left wanting for betting markets when you want to wager on the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Jose Sharks, or any other local team.
BetOnline does cover many other sports as well, including all the major ones, like soccer, MMA, and Formula 1.
The California sportsbook will also appeal to those who enjoy a variety of bet types. Parlays bets, in particular, are a big feature at BetOnline. The site also supports prop bets, live betting, and common favorites like moneylines and futures.
Bonus Deals and Promotions 4.9/5
We discussed the welcome bonus, which is worth 50% up to $250 in bonus bets, in the introduction. It has zero wagering requirements, so you can use anything you win as you like. Make more bets or withdraw the cash – it’s completely up to you. What we didn’t mention was that you also receive 100 free spins, which is great if you also enjoy playing casino games.
This sports betting California site also brings further excitement through regular contests with some epic prize pools and hands out daily odds boosters on selected games.
Payment Methods and Payout Speeds 4.8/5
As with Bovada, cryptocurrency withdrawals will be completed within a day at BetOnline. That’s a significant selling point, especially for players who like to move their sports betting bankroll around to different platforms.
There’s a lack of fiat payment methods supported here, but you can at least use Visa and Mastercard for deposits and withdrawals.
Snag a $250 wager-free bonus bet [BetOnline]
3. Everygame – Best California Sportsbook Online for Parlays
Pros
- A strong focus on major league sports
- Low wagering requirements
- Great mobile betting experience
- Welcome bonus worth up to $1,000
- Excellent tennis betting odds
Cons
- Some fees on transactions
- No betting apps for download
Propping up our top 5 California sports betting sites is another platform we recommend you check out. Everygame is a fantastic site for bettors who like to combine two or three bets to create a single parlay bet.
Sports Markets and Betting Odds 4.9/5
As mentioned, if you like to spice up the odds and potential payouts through parlay bets, Everygame will suit you down to the ground. That’s because a quick look at the promotions page will list several great parlay bonus deals you can use to boost those bets even further.
Those parlay boosts are applicable to selected sports markets, which we’re sure will not attract any complaints from Californian bettors.
Bonus Deals and Promotions 4.7/5
That’s not all you’ll find on the promotions page, as Everygame also offers challenges, boosts, and a welcome bonus that’s worth 100% up to $500. Alternatively, if you’d rather deposit with cryptocurrencies, there’s a 50% up to $1,000.
You’ll also discover free bet deals and a refer-a-friend promotion, among other exciting promotions.
Payment Methods and Payout Speeds 4.8/5
With crypto, online banking, and credit cards available, Everygame has a depositing option for everyone. As with many of the other online casinos with instant payouts, crypto withdrawals are by far the fastest.
We did notice one downside: we’re limited to a single withdrawal per week. That’s worth bearing in mind if you’re a regular sports bettor.
Claim your $1,000 bonus [Everygame]
4. MyBookie – Best Online Sports Betting in California for Beginners
Pros:
- 100% bet back bonus up to $500
- Strong sports betting coverage with NFL, NBA & more
- Excellent live betting platform
- Intuitive mobile site with no app needed
- Supports crypto and card deposits
Cons:
- Fewer withdrawal methods for fiat users
- Website design feels a bit dated compared to rivals
MyBookie has built a strong following with California players thanks to its simple design and generous promotions. While it may not have the same history as Bovada, it has cut out its own space by offering uncommon betting markets, user-friendly mobile play, and dependable crypto payouts.
Sports Markets and Betting Odds 4.7/5
When it comes to betting markets, MyBookie covers all the bases. NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAA action are all here, with thousands of lines updated daily. Beyond the big leagues, you’ll find odds on esports, tennis, golf, UFC, and even entertainment props or political betting. Californians who like variety will feel right at home.
Live betting is another strong point. The in-game platform is responsive and easy to navigate, letting you place or cash out bets mid-match. Prop coverage is wide, with custom options like player passing yards, strikeouts, or even who will score next. Odds are competitive overall, though juice can be a bit higher on niche markets.
Bonus Deals and Promotions 4.6/5
New players can claim a 100% sports bet back bonus up to $500. This safety net gives you a second chance if your first wager doesn’t land, though a 10x rollover applies. Casino players can also grab a 150% bonus up to $750.
Returning players aren’t left out either. There are reload bonuses, referral deals, and boosted odds featured each week. The Parlay and Bet Boost sections are worth checking out, especially if you like building larger tickets. While the promotions are plentiful, some players may find the terms less straightforward than on other sportsbooks.
Payment Methods and Payout Speeds 4.6/5
MyBookie accepts deposits using both crypto and traditional cards. Bitcoin is the fastest way to move money, with payouts often completed the same day. Ethereum and Litecoin are supported, too. Visa and Mastercard work for deposits, but not for withdrawals.
For fiat cash-outs, options are more limited. Bank transfers and checks are available, but take several days to process. That makes crypto the clear choice for California sports bettors who want quick access to winnings.
Grab your $500 bet back bonus [MyBookie]
5. BetWhale – Best Sports Betting CA Site for Mobile
Pros
- 200% up to $6,000 sign-up bonus for newcomers
- No cap on winnings
- Same-day crypto withdrawals
- Competitive NFL odds
- Top-notch mobile betting experience
- Hosts regular tournaments
Cons
- No betting apps for download
- Could do with more reload bonus offers
BetWhale has outdone the competition and now ranks as the best mobile California sports betting site. Its mobile experience is polished, responsive, and effortless — whether you’re building parlays or cashing out crypto on the go.
Sports Markets and Betting Odds: 4.7/5
Some California sports betting apps cover a few more sports and offer a bit more variety in terms of bet types. However, as the odds across most sports are better at BetWhale than most, we feel that offsets that somewhat.
Besides, Californians are more likely to bet on major sports like the NFL and the NBA, so fewer sports are not a major concern. Plus, those major leagues generally have the best odds at BetWhale.
Bonus Deals and Promotions: 4.7/5
Again, there are bigger bonus offers, especially at competitors like BetUS, but we feel the 200% up to $6,000 deposit boost is more than big enough.
On top of that, it has 10x wagering requirements, and there is no cap if you’re lucky enough to win from the bonus funds.
We do wish there were a few more reload bonuses, but BetWhale does add these from time to time. Free bets and tournaments are other promotions you’ll come across every now and then as well.
Payment Methods and Payout Speeds: 4.8/5
One of the big selling points of the BetWhale sportsbook is the payout speeds. Usually, these are processed within a day. While you’ll still have to wait a few days to receive your money through bank transfers or bank cards, crypto payments should hit your wallet that same day – if not within the same hour.
Redeem your 200% bonus [BetWhale]
California Sports Betting – Bill Updates 2026
Learn about the history of various efforts made over the years to legalize sports betting in the state of California.
- [October 2025] Update: The bill AB 831 was passed, officially banning sweepstakes gambling in the state beginning on January 1, 2026.
- [August 2025] Update: The proposed bill AB 831 aims to make sweepstakes casinos illegal, with some tribes opposing this initiative.
- [April 2025] Update: The Sports Betting Alliance announced a plan to collaborate with federally recognized tribes to possibly oversee sports betting and share revenues together in the future.
- [October 2023] Update: Two ballot initiatives were filed to grant tribes the authority to oversee sports wagering in California, although some Native American tribal spokespersons said they did not initiate this effort.
- [November 2022] Update: Proposition 26 was filed to propose in-person sports betting at tribal gaming casinos and racetracks. In contrast, Proposition 27 was also filed to suggest that statewide operators should oversee sports betting. However, the majority of Californians did not vote in favor of both.
Ranking the Best California Online Sports Betting Sites
To establish the best online sports betting California sites, our experts ranked each platform across three main criteria.
Sports Markets and Betting Odds
We checked that each online sports betting site covered not only the sports that most Californian bettors are most likely to bet on but also a variety of lesser-known sporting activities. On each platform, you can enjoy online sports wagering on the NFL and NBA, among other sports, and top European soccer leagues and global favorites like boxing and tennis betting.
The team also wanted to ensure that only online betting sites with competitive odds made the list. Californians should get a fair return whether wagering on local favorites like the San Diego Padres or placing bets on any sports event around the world.
Bonus Deals and Promotions
A good and fair welcome bonus will often attract sports bettors to sign up for an online sportsbook. However, we know many sites offer deals that look good on paper but prove the opposite once we’ve reviewed the bonus terms and conditions. High wagering requirements and other strict rules often take away a first deposit bonus’s initial shine.
That’s why we inspect those T&Cs and consider them alongside the size of a California sportsbook bonus. On top of that, we analyze all reload bonus deals and any other special offers or promotions a California online betting site promises players.
Payment Methods and Payout Speeds
Also, a top priority for our reviewers is the payment methods bettors can use to fund their California sports betting accounts or cash out their winnings. We looked for a good variety of options to suit the preferences of many. Every region has its preferred payment options, you see. For example, most Australian online casinos use Paysafecard.
Finally, Californian bettors deserve their winnings quickly, which is why we considered the withdrawal processing speeds of each of the California sportsbooks.
We used similar criteria to rank the best Texas sports betting sites, ensuring consistency for readers looking to bet beyond California.
Is Bovada Legal in California?
Online gambling is not yet legalized in the state, but sportsbooks that are licensed internationally are now accessible in California, including Bovada.
In our view, Bovada checks every box for sports gambling in California, whether you’re a total newcomer or a seasoned bettor. Below are the key reasons we ranked it #1.
- Strong odds and deep betting markets: From NFL and NBA to niche markets like props and futures, Bovada offers a wide range of sports and bet types. It’s especially good for player props, and the odds are consistently competitive — sometimes even reduced to -105 on select games.
- Solid crypto bonus and loyalty rewards: Bovada offers a 75% crypto deposit bonus up to $750, plus a rewards system that gives you points for every bet. These can be redeemed for cash or bonuses later. There’s also a 50% bonus option for fiat users.
- Smooth mobile performance: What really sets Bovada apart as the best sports betting app in California is its seamless mobile experience. You can download the app or just visit the site from your phone. Either way, you’ll get full access to odds, live betting, and your bet slip. Everything loads quickly and runs smoothly, even during high-traffic events.
- Fast crypto payouts and trusted reputation: All the California sports betting sites we’ve listed do a good job of paying out quickly. However, Bovada is one of the fastest sports betting apps California has to offer. Combine that with 10+ years of positive player reviews, and it’s clear why it tops our list.
Bovada also has a full casino with slots and table games — while it didn’t make our list of the best California online casinos, it’s still a solid all-in-one option for players who enjoy both sports betting and casino games.
Benefits & Drawbacks of California Sports Betting
The sports betting industry is big business, not just in the country but worldwide, for good reason: people enjoy it. But why do Americans, Californians included, enjoy it so much? And what could be some of the challenges bettors may face? Let’s break down the main advantages and disadvantages of sports wagering in the sunny state.
Online Sports Betting Benefits
For added entertainment when watching sports
One of the biggest perks of betting on sports is that it adds an extra layer of enjoyment – especially if your team wins. That’s why most California residents love watching sports, especially local teams like the Los Angeles Kings or the San Francisco Giants.
It’s even possible to use the live betting options at California betting apps to place your wagers while the game is still on. Think the Sacramento Kings could steal the points at the end of the game? Put down some money at a California online betting site and get paid if your hunch comes off.
To claim some generous bonus deals
Welcome bonuses are attractive boons also as they give new members an initial boost when starting out. However, why stop at just one bonus from one mobile sports betting site? With so many great platforms out there, you could sign up for all of them and grab their bonuses.
For example, Florida gambling sites have some of the most exciting deals anyone can grab. Players can always claim more than one offer, just as long as they’re aware of the terms of each promotion.
To win some extra cash
While we never suggest using sportsbook sites as a way to make money, there’s no denying a big win is always welcome as a fun benefit. Imagine placing a small horse racing bet at odds of 150:1, and it comes in. You could use that money towards Christmas or birthday gifts or simply treat yourself to something you’ve wanted for a while.
Online Sports Betting Drawbacks
To find it challenging to access betting sites
There’s a chance that California bettors might encounter technical issues when loading some betting websites since not all are easily accessible in the state. However, you can try visiting these sites with the help of a VPN that is set to a state where sports betting is legal.
To lose some extra cash
Sports betting, just like any other form of gambling, involves some risk… and this is part of the thrill! Yet, there’s a possibility that you might lose a bit of money when you lose a wager on sporting events. Still, you can minimize the risk by betting responsibly and setting limits on your betting amounts.
California Sports Betting – FAQs
Before you start placing bets on your favorite sports, learn the ABCs of sports wagering first!
Is Sports Betting Safe in California?
Yes, it is safe for Californians to place wagers at offshore CA betting sites such as those we’ve recommended. If you go outside of our list, just be sure to check the licensing status of any sportsbook you join.
Is Sports Betting Legal in California?
While there is presently no state-based sport betting in California, there are some internationally licensed betting sites that accept California bettors. This gives California sports fans the opportunity to check out sports odds and place bets online on their favorite sporting events.
What Is the Best Offshore Sportsbooks for California?
Bovada is the best online sports betting California site. It has some of the most competitive odds on the major sports Californians usually bet on and welcomes new bettors with a $750 bonus.
How to Bet on Sports in California?
There are two options. You can either enjoy sports betting at land-based tribal casinos that offer it or you can sign up at any online sportsbook California offers and is covered in this guide.
Can I Bet on Sports in California With a VPN?
It is possible to try accessing sports betting sites using a VPN if you are located in California. Just be aware that your attempts might not always be successful since some sites may block you due to geo-location technology. To increase your chances of connecting to the platform via VPN, make sure to select a state where pro sports or college betting is legal.
Comparing the Top 5 California Online Betting Sites
Bovada: The best online sportsbook California has to offer, Bovada features a 75% crypto bonus up to $750, fast payouts, and strong odds on major leagues like the NFL and NBA.
BetOnline: BetOnline is our top pick if you’re after bonus deals without wagering requirements. Anything you win from the $250 bonus bets has no rollover requirements!
Everygame: If parlays are your bet of choice, your best option is Everygame, a sportsbook that’s heavy on other types of bonuses. The first is a 50% up to $1,000 crypto welcome bonus.
MyBookie: It’s a great pick for newbies thanks to its user-friendly interface and fun promotions. For example, the welcome deal is a 100% bet back bonus up to $500.
BetWhale: The go-to site for mobile bettors, BetWhale, offers great odds, especially for the NFL. Join now and get a 200% match up to $6,000!
How to Sign Up at the Best California Sportsbooks
If you’re wondering how to bet on sports in California, the first step is to create an account on one of the best betting sites California bettors recommend. The good news is this usually doesn’t take too long, especially at our top 15 online sports betting sites in California.
Generally speaking, you’ll follow a similar registration process for almost any California sportsbook. We’ll explain the steps required in the BetWhale sign-up process, so you know what to expect.
Step One: Start the Registration
- Visit the BetWhale California sportsbook
- Click where it says “sign up” at the top right of the screen
Step Two: Enter the Required Information
- Fill out the requested information across a three-page sign-up form
- You’ll need your full name, address, and phone number
Step Three: Finalize the Registration Process
- You’re asked to click to accept the online sportsbook’s T&Cs
- Once happy, click ‘Sign Up’ to finish registering
Step Four: Make a Deposit and Consider a Bonus
- Consider making your first deposit
- Don’t forget to claim the 150% sign-up bonus (optional)
Sports Betting in California: Tips & Tricks
Whether you’re new to sports betting in California or have been doing it for years, you might pick up a thing or two from our following tips & tricks.
Choose the Right California Sports Betting Site
While residents of the Golden State are waiting for California to legalize online sports betting, there are some fantastic offshore sports betting sites that are available. Of course, your favorite will come down to preference.
We’ve provided you with a good start with our list of the best California sportsbooks online. Work your way through until you find an online sportsbook that fits your needs.
Create a Betting Budget and Stick to It
We’re big advocates of responsible gaming, so we strongly advise you to treat California sports betting as a hobby and not as a way to make money. To ensure you gamble responsibly, set a budget of how much you can afford to lose each month. Stick to it and never deposit any more money to chase losses.
Know the Sports You’re Betting On
You’ll stand a better chance of winning at California betting sites if you have a deep understanding of the sports you’re wagering on. For example, if you’re a Los Angeles Lakers fan, you’ll probably know what their chances are against some of the championship’s best teams.
On the flip side, you might not know either player in a game of badminton, so it’s probably best to avoid placing a bet.
Did You Find the Best California Sports Betting Site?
So, what do you think of our recommended California sportsbooks? Do you agree that Bovada is the best overall option right now, or did you go for one or two of the other best California sports betting sites?
We stick by our assertion that it offers a better all-round experience than the rest, as it has some of the best betting odds, a cracking welcome bonus, and covers all the betting types and sports you’ll ever need. We also understand if you’ve opted for one of the others, as they’re all good in their own way.
Don’t forget, you’re not restricted to just one sportsbook. You can take advantage of the bonuses of all the best gambling sites in California, and then, pick and choose which to use based on the current odds of the bets you place.
Important information for our readers:
Participation is restricted to adults 21+.
Gambling carries financial risk and may lead to addiction.
Never gamble with money you can’t afford to lose.
Check your local laws to confirm online gambling is allowed where you live.
If you need help, call 1‑800‑GAMBLER for free, confidential support any time.
More details: https://www.ncpgambling.org/
