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As I travel around the country, checking out the sports betting scene in each state, I’ve now made my way to California – where the passion for sports is as deep as the Pacific.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Dodgers or the San Francisco 49ers, or you enjoy the occasional bet on global teams, the best sports betting sites in California have something for everyone.
I was particularly impressed with Bovada, thanks to its $750 welcome bonus and a wide range of betting options that extend even to the most niche sports.
In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about sports betting in the Golden State. After personally testing and ranking the top sites, I’m excited to show you the best places to bet and how to grab their top bonuses.
Ready? Let’s begin.
Best California Sports Betting Sites
- Bovada: Up to $750 bonus – Editor’s pick
- BetOnline: $250 free bet promo – Runner up
- SportsBetting.ag: Deposits doubled up to $500 – Best bonuses
- EveryGame: $1,000 crypto bonus – Ideal for mobile betting
- MyBookie: 50% up to $1,000 – Best live betting odds
- BetWhale: Up to $1,250 offer – Amazing loyalty program
- BetUS: 125% deposit match offer – Exclusive BetUS TV
- BUSR: $2,500 welcome bonus – Excellent user interface
- Wild.io: $200 free bet promo – Offers instant payouts
- XBet: Up to $200 in bonus bets – Best NBA odds
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California Sports Betting: What You Need to Know
| Is sports betting available in California? | Yes |
| Who can bet in California? | Adults aged 21+ |
| What online sportsbooks are available in California? | Bovada, BetOnline, Sportsbetting.ag, Everygame, MyBookie |
| What sports can I bet on in California? | US sports leagues like the MLB, the NBA, the NFL, college sports, soccer, tennis, golf, eSports, and more |
1. Bovada – Best California Online Sports Betting Site Overall
Pros:
- 75% up to $750 sign-up bonus
- Bet on 30+ sports
- Props Builder tool
- Request your own bets
- Offers alternative lines
- 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- Sometimes posts late lines
- No reload bonuses
| Bovada | 75% match welcome bonus up to $750
Crypto deposits only |
Bovada is California’s number-one rated online sportsbook. Here, you can claim the best odds on over 20 sports and explore a wide variety of betting markets.
You can also request your own bets, use the sophisticated Props Builder tool that the best CA sports betting site offers whenever you want to swerve traditional markets and choose from alternative lines.
Bonuses include an unlimited 200% refer-a-friend promo, while a rewards program adds loyalty points to your account anytime you place a $1+ wager.
| Bonuses and Promos | 4.95/5 |
| Security and Licensing | 5/5 |
| Features | 5/5 |
| Sports Coverage | 4.85/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.95/5 |
| Bet Types | 5/5 |
| Banking Options | 4.95/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.95/5 |
| Overall | 4.95/5 |
- Payment Methods: VISA and MasterCard, Voucher, Match Pay, Bitcoin, Litecoin, etc.
- Welcome Bonus: 75% match up to $750
- Withdrawal Time: 1 hour – up to a few days
2. BetOnline – Best California Betting Site for Market Variety
Pros:
- Offers 30+ sports
- 50% up to $250 sign-up bonus
- Mega Parlays feature
- Thousands of daily markets available
- Online for 20+ years
- Exciting betting contests
Cons:
- High minimum deposit for some bonuses
- Can’t withdraw via credit card
| BetOnline | 50% match first deposit bonus up to $250
Bonus code: FREE250 |
BetOnline features a stellar variety of sports betting markets, and this unique offering has helped it become one of the top Tenessee sports betting sites.
If you’re the type of bettor drawn to parlays, BetOnline has everything you need, from the option of placing same game parlays to turbocharging your picks with a Mega Parlay function.
You can also claim parlay boosts and cash out your bets whenever you want.
With over 25 years of experience, this sportsbook California site is one of the most trusted sites, where customer support is offered 24/7, lines are released early, and betting limits are high.
| Bonuses and Promos | 4.9/5 |
| Security and Licensing | 4.9/5 |
| Features | 4.8/5 |
| Sports Coverage | 5/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.9/5 |
| Bet Types | 4.85/5 |
| Banking Options | 4.9/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.95/5 |
| Overall | 4.9/5 |
Payment Methods: Credit and debit cards, person-to-person, bank transfers, money orders, Bitcoin, Litecoin, etc.
Welcome Bonus: 50% up to $250 + 100 free spins
Withdrawal Time: Same-day payouts via crypto
3. SportsBetting.ag – Best CA Online Sportsbook for Bonuses
Pros:
- Double your first two deposits up to $500 each
- 25+ years experience
- Accepts 15+ cryptocurrencies
- 35% crypto reload bonus
- Daily odds boosts
Cons:
- No loyalty program
- Transaction fees via cards
| SportsBetting.ag | Double your first two deposits up to $250
Promo code: DOUBLEUP |
Looking to play with crypto in California? While SportsBetting.ag accepts US dollars, it supports more than 15 cryptocurrencies, which come with zero fees and instant withdrawals.
You can also claim unlimited crypto-boosted 35% reload bonuses here, which has been servicing bettors for more than 25 years.
Even if you don’t use crypto, this sports betting CA site offers competitive odds on all the top sports; there are various props to choose from, along with daily odds boosts.
| Bonuses and Promos | 4.95/5 |
| Security and Licensing | 5/5 |
| Features | 4.95/5 |
| Sports Coverage | 4.85/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.9/5 |
| Bet Types | 4.8/5 |
| Banking Options | 4.75 |
| Customer Service | 4.8/5 |
| Overall | 4.85/5 |
- Payment Methods: VISA and MasterCard, money orders, cash by courier, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, and more
- Welcome Bonus: $1,000 over first 2 deposits
- Withdrawal Time: Instant for crypto
4. EveryGame – Top Mobile CA Sports Betting Site
Pros:
- $1,000 sports betting bonus
- User-friendly mobile experience
- Fast payouts
- Offers betting challenges
- Parlay insurance
Cons:
- Some withdrawals might take longer
- Smaller non-crypto bonus
| Everygame | 50% matched deposit up to $200
Bonus code: CRYPTO1K |
As one of the world’s oldest online sportsbooks, EveryGame’s reputation precedes it. It works excellently on all devices but especially on mobile, where you can take advantage of a clean interface, regular promotions, and valuable features.
Customer support is provided 24/7 at this California online betting site, signing up takes less than a minute, and you can place all kinds of bets, from singles bets to parlays and futures bets.
Bet limits are flexible, same-day payouts are available, and regular offers include parlay insurance and betting challenges.
| Bonuses and Promos | 4.8/5 |
| Security and Licensing | 4.8/5 |
| Features | 4.8/5 |
| Sports Coverage | 4.9/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.95/5 |
| Bet Types | 4.75/5 |
| Banking Options | 4.85/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.9/5 |
| Overall | 4.8/5 |
- Payment Methods: VISA and MasterCard, PaySafeCard, Payz, NeoSurf, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more
- Welcome Bonus: $1,000 for crypto users
- Withdrawal Time: 24 hours to a couple of days
5. MyBookie – Best Live Betting Site in California
Pros:
- 50% up to $1,000 sign-up bonus
- Accurate in-play odds
- College sports available
- VIP program
- 50% sports reload bonus
Cons:
- Limited payment methods
- Slow payouts for non-VIPs
|
MyBookie |
50% up to $1,000 sign-up bonus
Promo code: MYB50 |
MyBookie offers accurate in-play odds on all the top sports, including the NFL, soccer, college basketball, and tennis. You can place moneyline bets in play, as well as spread bets, totals, and props bets.
And with an early cashout function, this sports betting California online site puts you in complete control of your bets.
There are resources on the site to help you out, including daily betting news, analysis, and expert tips. You can also claim regular 50% reload bonuses, enter the VIP program, and take advantage of faster withdrawals.
| Bonuses and Promos | 4.75/5 |
| Security and Licensing | 4.8/5 |
| Features | 4.8/5 |
| Sports Coverage | 4.7/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.8/5 |
| Bet Types | 4.75/5 |
| Banking Options | 4.8/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.7/5 |
| Overall | 4.75/5 |
- Payment Methods: VISA and MasterCard, PaySafeCard, NeoSurf, Bitcoin, Litecoin etc
- Welcome Bonus: 50% up to $1,000
- Withdrawal time: 24 hours – 14 days
History of Sports Betting in California
California is home to the second most slot machines in the US after Nevada. You can play poker, rock up at horse racing tracks, and bet on horses, too.
But what’s the deal with sports betting?
Sports betting in California has something of a frustrating past, with many native sports bettors dismayed by the sluggishness of the powers that be to ratify sports betting legislation.
Instead, all attempts so far to fully permit sports betting in California have come up against brick walls, with no one able to decide who’s going to get paid.
As recently as 2023, sports betting was on the ballot in California, but — as of 2024 — no concrete decision has yet been made. And while the tribal casinos got involved as far back as 2019, and a California Sports Wagering and Consumer Protection Act was created the same year, progress was stopped by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Things haven’t progressed much since, despite the tribal casinos and commercial operators pushing for sports betting to be permitted in California.
As things stand, no land-based sportsbooks exist, and Californian sports bettors can use offshore sports betting sites to place online bets instead.
Pros and Cons of Using the Best Betting Sites California Has to Offer
While it seems like a no-brainer to join legal California sportsbooks for all your sports betting needs, there might still be one or two reasons you might have second thoughts. Let’s explore the pros and cons:
Pros
California Betting Apps Are Available 24/7
You can bet whenever the mood takes you, with California online sports betting apps and websites open for business 24/7.
Online Sports Wagering Is Safe
The sports betting industry is safer than ever, with plenty of regulated sports betting sites to choose from. As long as you join a reputable online betting site, you’ll be perfectly safe.
CA Sports Betting Sites Have the Best Odds
Even if you can’t find the best prices at one California sports betting app, you can switch to another to see if they’re offering better odds.
Cons
You’ll Get Taxed
All US bettors are subject to tax, with the IRS treating online and retail sports betting as a form of income.
Not All Betting Sites in California are Legit
Despite the high number of legal sports betting available, there are still a few rogue CA betting sites that are seeking to trick new customers.
Most Popular Sports Teams to Bet on in California
The Golden State has huge sports teams competing in various leagues and tournaments. Here are the favorite teams for California sports betting online:
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- Los Angeles Clippers
- San Diego Padres
- Golden State Warriors
- Los Angeles Chargers
- San Francisco 49ers
- Sacramento Kings
- Los Angeles Rams
- San Francisco Giants
- Oakland A’s
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Los Angeles Angels
Other Types of Gambling in California
If you ever feel like trying something else, such as online casino games, let’s find out where the state of California stands on other forms of gambling:
Horse Racing
Horse racing betting has been a form of legalized sports betting since 1933. It’s been a popular pastime for many natives, including the counterculture novelist Charles Bukowski.
There are four race tracks within state lines that you can visit and place bets while watching all the action in person.
Online Casino Games
While online casino games are technically not permitted in California just yet, there are still ways around this. You can play casino games at social casinos and sweepstakes, as well as join offshore legal sports betting sites, which offer a mix of sports betting markets and casino games.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Like a number of other US states, California has yet to pass any sort of legislation on Daily Fantasy Sports. As such, this part of the legal online sports betting isn’t yet regulated.
So, while this means you can sign up for DFS betting sites without any hassle, you need to be careful to join legit and reputable DFS sites.
Online Poker
While online poker is still dubious in California, you’re free to play real money poker at a land-based cardroom in this state, where poker has been legal for decades.
California Sports Betting – FAQs
Can I Bet on Sports in California?
You can bet on sports in California but in order to do so, you need to sign up to an online sports betting site. Just make sure to join a legit and reputable online gambling site with solid customer reviews that is renowned for its security and reliable payouts.
Is California Sports Betting Safe?
California online betting is completely safe as long as you stick to established sportsbooks like Bovada, which have a strong reputation for looking after their customers.
You can do your own research when scouting around for sportsbooks, with things to look out for including trustworthy payment methods and security measures. You can also read existing customer reviews to find out what other bettors have to say about a particular betting site.
Can I Bet on Live Sports in California?
Yes, CA sports betting extends to live betting, meaning you can bet on sporting events that have already started.
All the best California sportsbooks offer live betting opportunities on sports like soccer, tennis, and the NFL, and you can bet on the moneyline, the totals, the spread, and other markets in play.
What Payment Methods Are Available at California Betting Sites?
Reputable betting sites in California support major credit and debit cards like VISA and MasterCard, e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller, and various other banking options, including bank transfer, person-to-person, and vouchers.
You’ll also find that many sportsbooks accept a variety of cryptocurrencies, including popular options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, etc.
How Long Do Withdrawals From CA Online Sportsbooks Take?
While many top betting sites do their best to process withdrawals the same day, exactly how long you’ll be waiting depends to a large extent on the specific withdrawal method you used.
Crypto payouts are instant, credit card withdrawals can take 1-3 business days, while bank transfers can take longer. It’s also worth noting that some online betting sites perform their own checks, which can slow things down, while others don’t offer weekend withdrawals.
What Sports Can I Bet on in California?
You can place sports bets on all the top US sports, such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB, as well as college sports and even NASCAR. You can also bet on worldwide sports, such as soccer, tennis, and golf, and niche sports, including cycling, volleyball, and handball.
Esports betting markets are also available, while some CA betting sites let you bet on non-sporting events like politics.
Can I Win Real Money at CA Sports Betting Sites?
Yes! In California, you can win real money betting on sports. Simply sign up to a betting site like BetOnline, enter a stake, and place a bet for a chance to win money.
Keep in mind that winning or losing depends on various factors, and most sports bettors view sports betting as a fun activity rather than a reliable way to make long-term profits.
What Bonuses Can I Claim at California Betting Sites?
Most California betting sites offer new customers a welcome bonus in the form of a matched deposit bonus, such as Bovada’s 75% up to $750 welcome offer.
Other bonuses you can claim as a regular player include reload bonuses, referral bonuses (which you can claim by referring a friend to the site), and cashback bonuses, which are based on your weekly or monthly betting activity.
My Experience with California Sports Betting
As I’ve explored the best sports betting sites in California, here’s what stood out to me:
Huge Potential: While sports betting is still working its way through the legal process in California, the potential here is enormous. With such a diverse and sports-loving population, it’s only a matter of time before betting really takes off. In the meantime Cali bettors can enjoy the out-of-state options I have covered here.
Unmatched Convenience: One of the things I appreciate most about sports betting in California is the convenience. Being able to place bets online from anywhere in the state, whether I’m at home, at the beach, or out with friends, is a game-changer.
Safety First: California’s online betting sites are doing a great job with security. I feel confident knowing that my personal and financial information is well-protected whenever I place a bet.
Exciting Bonuses: The bonuses available on California sportsbooks are a big draw for me. From generous welcome offers to ongoing promotions, there’s always something extra to make the betting experience more rewarding.
So, What Are the Best Online Sports Betting Sites in California?
These are the best sportsbooks in the online sports betting market that Californian bettors can join today. Each one is safe, legit, and reputable, and I’ve personally tested and rated them highly for their market options and quick payouts.
Bovada is the best CA online sportsbook overall, and you can opt into a $750 welcome bonus when you create an account and deposit $20 or more.
Whatever you decide to do, always remember that CA sports betting is meant to be fun. So remember to stay in control and gamble responsibly.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Online gambling comes with risks. There’s no guarantee of financial gain, so you should only gamble with what you can afford to lose.
While gambling can be fun, it can also be addictive. If you or anyone you know suffers from a gambling addiction problem, we recommend that you call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 to speak with an advisor. Please remember that our guides and all gambling sites are only for people who are 21+. Also, check with local laws to find out if online gambling is legal in your area.
For free online gambling addiction resources, visit these organizations: