David spent 25 years as both a writer and editor within the betting/casino industries - including at The Guardian, Racing Post, 888Casino and Sky Sports Racing - prior to joining BBI. He has a diploma in sub-editing and law, is the author of four books, and remains a successful sports tipster.
All posts by David Myers
As a Senior Gambling Journalist, I bring a rich tapestry of expertise to the forefront of the gambling scene in the US. My extensive experience not only encompasses content curation but also extends into the realm of leadership within content marketing teams. Beyond the technical nuances, I specialize in crafting compelling brand identities that truly resonate within the ever-evolving online gambling landscape.
All posts by Sacha KinserCalifornia sports betting is not yet legal from a local, regulated standpoint. However, in 2024, offshore sportsbooks are available for Californians, as they accept players from within the state.
The top 10 CA online sportsbooks are all based offshore. These sites are fully licensed and regulated within states that have legal, online gambling. No customer has ever been prosecuted throughout the US for signing up for an offshore sports betting site.
- To top
List of the Best Betting Sites in California
By signing up and experiencing the key elements of every offshore betting site in California, our experts came up with the following top ten.
- BetOnline – Best California sports betting site
- BetWhale – Tops in California for esports betting & live streaming
- Bovada – Top live betting site in California
- BetNow – Claim endless reload deposit bonuses
- Everygame – Number one for college sports betting
- CoinPoker – Best new sportsbook for security & bettor anonymity
- MyBookie – Easiest sports betting site to use
- BetUS – Biggest welcome bonus in California
- SportsBetting.ag – Deposit via 16 different cryptocurrencies
- XBet – Loads of existing customer bonuses to enjoy
Reviews of California’s Top Online Betting Sites
Though our list of ten outlines the key aspects that make joining them so enjoyable, we have reviewed the top five of them in more detail. These feature reviews of their betting options, bonuses, customer support and array of payment methods offered.
1. BetOnline – Best California Sports Betting Site
The most comprehensive sports betting site available in California, BetOnline tops our list in the greatest number of key factors. The platform gives bettors so many different ways of betting, both in terms of the sports and markets on offer, as well as the different payment methods one can use as well.
To begin your journey with BetOnline, you can claim a welcome bonus worth up to $500. A 50% match deposit boost up to $1,000, with a minimum deposit of $20, ensures every type of California sports bettor is suited by the offer.
You can also claim reload bonuses with every other deposit you make into a BetOnline account. If you place your bets well, you can bet almost exclusively with free bet BetOnline bonuses.
Lastly, there are 16 different cryptocurrencies that players can use to deposit and withdraw. This gives crypto users greater flexibility than anywhere else in terms of the different coins that you can use.
BetOnline sports bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Cryptocurrencies accepted? Sports Sign-up Offer 50% up to $250 + 100 free spins INSIDERS 30x $50 ✅ What we like:
- Wide ranging sports betting
- Claim eternal reload deposit boosts
- 16 cryptocurrencies to deposit and withdraw with
- Flexible welcome bonus
What we don’t:
- Live streaming unavailable
2. BetWhale – Tops in California for Esports Betting & Live Streaming
Among sportsbooks in California, BetWhale is known for its robust platform and reputably fair service. The sportsbook covers an extensive range of sports markets, including all major US leagues: NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS. For international sports fans, BetWhale covers all major international soccer leagues and numerous niche markets such as darts and cycling. As a California sports bettor, you can engage with your favorite teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, San Francisco 49ers, and San Diego Padres! Known for delivering early lines and providing competitive odds, it offers all standard bet options like Moneyline, Spread, and Totals, plus popular specialty bets like futures and parlays.
BetWhale delivers comprehensive pre-match updates on player and team performances. Live betting is one of BetWhale’s strengths; its popular live markets include all US major league matches and all major international events, with early cash out options regularly appearing mid-match. Additionally, the platform supports live streaming of in-play events. The sportsbook also welcomes bettors via VPN connection. BetWhale’s sports bonuses include deposit matches, reload bonuses, loyalty rewards, and tournaments.
BetWhale sports bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Cryptocurrencies accepted? Sports Sign-up Offer 125% up to $1,250 INSIDERS 10x $50 ✅ What we like:
- Impressive live & esports sports betting opportunities
- Rapid no-KYC Crypto signup
- Rapid payouts
- Generous welcome promo
What we don’t:
- Limited live streaming
- Overly complex bonus terms
3. Bovada- Top Live Betting Site in California
Few names in the sports betting industry in the US are as recognizable as Bovada. Its platform is one of the easiest to use, with a very smart interface, most notably on desktop, though also on mobile.
The welcome bonus is superior for those wishing to play with cryptocurrencies. Players can claim a 75% welcome sign-up offer up to deposits of $750, while the Bovada bonus code is also subject to very lenient terms and conditions. The rollover is just 5x the bonus amount, and the minimum deposit is the equivalent of just $10.
Bovada is also home to some of the best live sports betting available in California. Its odds update sharply with the action which you will know about: Bovada allows you to stream along with the events on which you have a bet.
The customer support channels could be a little easier to find, but the site will ultimately give you very few problems that would need addressing.
Bovada sports bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Cryptocurrencies accepted? Sports Sign-up Offer 75% up to $750 INSIDERS 5x $10 ✅ What we like:
- HD live streaming service
- Great crypto offer
- Fast live betting
- Great site design
What we don’t:
- Difficult to find customer support
4. BetNow – Claim Endless Reload Deposit Bonuses
BetNow’s reputation turned it into one of the top sportsbooks in California, offering a robust betting platform and a user-friendly experience. The VPN-friendly sportsbook covers a comprehensive range of sports markets, featuring all major US leagues such as the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS. International markets include all European soccer leagues, tennis, and niche sports like darts and cricket. For California sports bettors, this means betting on all Los Angeles Dodgers, the Golden State Warriors, and the San Francisco 49ers matches throughout the regular and pre-season.
BetNow offers standard bet options that include moneyline, totals, and spreads, plus many specialty bet options like teasers and parlays. Their odds are competitive, and early lines allow you to get in on the action before the odds shift. Live betting is big on BetNow; live markets include all US major league games and matchups, with a full array of early cash out options. Bettors always have the latest pre-match updates on player and team news and data. Despite not offering dedicated mobile apps BetNow remains one of the best betting experiences on mobile, plus the BetNow promo range is unmatched in California.
BetNow sports bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Cryptocurrencies accepted? Sports Sign-up Offer 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 20x $20 ✅ What we like:
- Huge range of ongoing sports promos & bonuses
- Excellent choice for betting on horse racing
- Wide selection of bet options
- Fast deposits & withdrawals
What we don’t:
- Lack of live streaming
- High rollover on some bonuses
5. Everygame – Number One for College Sport Betting
Another of the more famous names in our top ten list, Everygame’s sportsbook is one of just four versions of its platform (along with two separate casinos and a poker site). It also offers features that do not come on any other California sports betting site.
The main thing that sets Everygame apart is its offering of college sports betting. Not only does it offer college sports markets in the first place, which are not fully available in California, but its markets are the most detailed. Just like when betting on the NFL, totals, and props go to a minute level to give players as much to bet on as possible.
Everygame’s welcome bonus could potentially be bigger and you cannot claim reloads with every deposit either. It is a little weaker when it comes to Everygame promo codes, though rollovers do tend to be smaller in this regard.
You can deposit and withdraw via four different cryptocurrencies, and regardless of the payment method you choose to use, you can gain your withdrawals within 48 hours.
Everygame sports bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Cryptocurrencies accepted? Sports Sign-up Offer 50% up to $500 INSIDERS 8x $20 ✅ What we like:
- Best site for college sport betting
- Quick withdrawals within 48 hours
- Gentle welcome offer terms
- Betting tournaments and jackpots
What we don’t:
- Poor when it comes to bonuses
The Best Online Sportsbooks in California Compared
To compare the best California sportsbooks on their bonuses, and availability of live betting and streaming, check out our table below. You can also see the promo codes required for their welcome offers.
Sportsbook Sign-Up Bonus Bonus Code No. of Sports Live Betting Live Streaming BetOnline 50% deposit match up to $250 + 100 free spins INSIDERS 40+ ✅ ✅ BetWhale 125% deposit match up to $1,250 INSIDERS 30+ ✅ ✅ Bovada 75% deposit match up to $750 INSIDERS 40+ ✅ ✅ BetNow 100% bonus up to $1,000 INSIDERS 10+ ✅ ❌ Everygame 100% up to $500 INSIDERS 40+ ✅ ❌ CoinPoker 150% deposit match up to $2,000 INSIDERS 40+ ✅ ❌ MyBookie 100% deposit match up to $1,000 + $10 casino chip INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ❌ BetUS 125% deposit match up to $2,625 INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ✅ Sportsbetting.ag First Two Deposits 50% Matched Up To $500 INSIDERS 15+ ✅ ✅ XBet 50% deposit match up to $200 INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ❌ How We Select the Best Online Betting Sites in California
Selecting the best online betting sites in California comes down to several different ranking factors. Beyond the sports betting options, our industry experts also ensure the following are covered in depth.
- Range of Bets – A bettor on a California sports betting site should have access to a whole variety of bets, far beyond the moneyline.
- Choice of Events – The choice of events should extend well past football, basketball, and horse racing. The best sites give players the chance to bet on over 30 different sports worldwide.
- Bonus & Promotions – The bonuses and promotions on offer should be consistent and not overly reliant on the welcome offer. Existing customer bonuses are just as important, if not more so.
- Safety & Security – Each site must be fully licensed as a prerequisite. They should also offer various features which secure the funds of a player.
- Payment Methods – As well as bank transfers, a site should offer at least four cryptocurrencies for players to deposit and withdraw via.
- Customer Support – Customer service channels should be insightful and quick to respond to any queries a player may have.
Is Sports Betting Legal in California?
Sports betting has not yet been legalized in California. For the time being, it looks unlikely that California sportsbooks will arrive in the state soon, with midway through 2024 the absolute earliest date for legalization, though 2025 looks more likely.
Sports betting proposals did not impress or get far in 2023. As such, players continue to rely upon offshore sportsbooks, which are licensed away from the United States. These sit within a gray area of the law, in which players will not be prosecuted for signing up. You can bet with total freedom on these sites until such time as a regulated sports betting industry comes to California.
Latest California Sports Betting Updates
This is the latest news regarding sports betting in California, and whether there will be a legal, regulated industry any time soon.
Nov 2023 – The new sports betting proposals are not condoned by the native tribes in California, with further defeat likely.
Oct 2023 – Two more proposals for the legalization of sports betting are proffered by supporters.
Nov 2022 – Despite an expensive legal battle, Proposition 26 and Proposition 27, both of which sought to legalize sports betting in California, are defeated by wide margins in the house.
California Betting Bills and Motions
Proposition 26 – A 2022 bill to legalize in-person sports betting at a variety of tribal casino sites within California. This bill was defeated in November 2022.
Proposition 27 – Another proposition from 2022, this one seeking to legalize online sports betting in California. As with proposition 26, this was defeated handsomely in November 2022.
Initiatives 23-0030 and 23-0031 – This would enable the discussion between the Governor of California and local tribes about the future of sports betting within the state. However, this is not a bill for the legalization of California sports betting.
Who Can Bet on Sports in California
To bet on sports in California, you must be over the age of 21. Offshore sports betting sites will abide by the laws within the state, so if you are under 21 and try to sign up for a California sports betting account, you will be breaking the law. Other than that, you must simply reside permanently within the state, and not use a VPN.
Advantages of Using One of These Online Sportsbooks in California
Offshore sportsbooks may initially put off people from CA sports betting. However, they are completely safe to sign up for and bet on, while there are actually substantial positives to using these sportsbooks ahead of local, regulated sites.
More established – Offshore sports betting sites have been around a lot longer given they have been able to claim licenses longer ago. This means they are more established and trustworthy names.
Bigger bonuses – As they are more established, this also goes for their financial stability. As a result, they offer greater bonuses for customers to claim.
More payment options – You will not have to rely only on traditional banking options with offshore betting platforms. Cryptocurrencies and e-Wallets will also be available for you to fund your account with.
International sports betting – Some local sportsbooks can focus too heavily on American sports. With our recommended sites for sports betting in California, you will have a greater propensity for betting on international sports, including more global horse racing.
Types of Bonuses Available
The types of bonuses you can find on an online sports betting site in California are varied and come in many forms. These are described below in their clearest terms, with the best example of each.
Bonus Type About Recommended Site Welcome Bonus - A promotion welcoming a new customer to a sports betting site
- Usually a match deposit bonus
- BetOnline – 50% up to $250 + 100 free spins
Ongoing Promotions - One which is available for existing customers
- Can be a reload deposit match, a rebate, or free bets
- BetNow – 25% reload deposit bonus
No Deposit Bonuses - A bonus which does not require a deposit or any other action to be taken
- None on offer
Comparing Sign-Up Bonuses
To see the exact sign-up bonuses you can claim at online sports betting sites and online casinos in California, check out the table below, which also outlines the key terms and conditions of every promotion.
Sportsbook Sign-up bonus Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Expiry date Cryptocurrencies accepted? BetOnline 50% deposit match up to $250 + 100 free spins INSIDERS 30x $20 30 days ✅ BetWhale 125% deposit match up to $1,250 INSIDERS 10x $30 N/A ✅ Bovada 75% deposit match up to $750 INSIDERS 5x $10 30 days ✅ BetNow 100% bonus up to $1,000 INSIDERS 20x $20 30 days ✅ Everygame 100% up to $500 INSIDERS 8x $20 30 days ✅ CoinPoker 150% deposit match up to $2,000 INSIDERS 2x bonus in rake $10 30 days ✅ MyBookie 100% deposit match up to $1,000 + $10 casino chip INSIDERS 10x $50 30 days ✅ BetUS 125% deposit match up to $2,625 INSIDERS 10x $100 30 days ✅ Sportsbetting.ag First Two Deposits 50% Matched Up To $500 INSIDERS 14x $100 30 days ✅ XBet 50% deposit match up to $200 INSIDERS 7x $45 30 days ✅ Popular Banking Methods at California Sportsbooks
California sportsbooks have a number of banking methods that are accepted nowadays. Beyond payments using US dollars, you can also use cryptocurrencies, often in large quantities, or e-Wallets.
Payment Method About Examples Cryptocurrencies - No fees
- Quick transactions
- Numerous different coins
- Bitcoin
- Bitcoin Cash
- Litecoin
- Ethereum
Traditional Payment Methods - Most popular method
- Some fees
- Slower transactions
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
- Bank transfers
- Payment vouchers
eWallets - Use traditional currency
- Quicker USD transactions
- PayPal
- Skrill
- Neteller
- ecoPayz
Deposit Options
You can deposit via any of the following payment options. In terms of e-Wallets, it is worth noting that PayPal is not available on any of the best California sports betting sites.
Sportsbook Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ BetWhale ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ BetNow ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ CoinPoker ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌ MyBookie ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ BetUS ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Sportsbetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ XBet ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Withdrawal Options
In comparison to deposit options, there are not as many methods by which you can withdraw funds, as outlined in this table.
Sportsbook Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ BetWhale ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ BetNow ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ CoinPoker ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌ MyBookie ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ BetUS ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Sportsbetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ XBet ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Popular Online Sports Betting Markets in California
Not every sports betting site in California will offer markets for all types of sports. However, you can see from the table below that the majority cater for all of the bets you would wish to place.
Sportsbook Moneyline Spreads / Totals Alternative Spreads / Totals Props Futures Parlays Same Game Parlays Live Betting BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ BetWhale ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ BetNow ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ Everygame ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ CoinPoker ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ MyBookie ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ BetUS ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ Sportsbetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ XBet ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ California Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for iPhone & Android
The best sports betting app in California is compatible with multiple mobile platforms. There’s no denying Android and iOS are the two major mobile operating systems recognized by mobile bettors worldwide.
California Mobile Sports Betting on iPhone
Because of the popularity of iOS devices, downloading a native sports betting app in California onto your iPhone is easy. iPhone apps are readily accessible on the Apple Store and are a breeze to download. Of course, you must consider compatibility, but this shouldn’t be an issue with the latest iPhone devices.
Even if the bookie doesn’t have an iPhone app, creating a mobile progressive web app on your device is quick and easy. Plus, it’s free.
California Mobile Sports Betting on Android
Android users get to enjoy a somewhat similar sports betting experience on their devices as their iOS counterparts. Because there are more Android users, the top sportsbooks take the time to create apps that accommodate them.
To download an Android sports betting app, simply head over to the Google Play Store. But since top CA bookies don’t have native apps, you can make your life easier by working with web apps.
Mobile Site vs. App for Betting in California
Throughout this guide, we highlighted mobile websites and betting apps as the two mobile betting options. Both allow you to wager on the move, but each platform comes with its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the one you go with is a matter of preference.
Mobile Site
As you might have gathered by now, accessing a mobile site eliminates the downloading process. Bettors can access a sportsbook’s mobile site directly from their phone browser.
What we like:
- Instant access to sportsbook functions
- Saves device storage space
- You don’t have to conduct regular updates
- Can be accessed on most devices
What we don’t:
- System downtimes during site maintenance
- Less secure than a native app
Mobile App
The dynamics of a native sports betting app in California are a little different from mobile sites. Bettors must download and install the application onto their respective devices before they can start wagering.
What we like:
- Exclusive app icon for quick startup
- More secure sign-up process
- Geolocation from California betting activated
- Designed for the right mobile operating platform
What we don’t:
- May not be compatible with all devices
- Takes up device space
How to Create a Betting App for a California Sportsbook
Seeing how most CA betting apps outlined in this guide don’t have a native app, this section will come in handy for players who prefer to wager on betting apps. The following steps explain how to create a progressive web app (PWA) on iPhone devices.
Step 1: Visit the Site from Your Mobile Device
Start by opening your Safari browser on your iPhone, and go to the online sportsbook.
Step 2: Open the Web Browser Menu
Once you’re on the online site, you’ll notice a menu button located at the bottom. Click on that browser menu to open it.
Step 3: Create a Shortcut
Create a shortcut to the mobile betting site on your phone. Do this by tapping on the “Add to Home Screen” button on the menu.
Step 4: Rename the App
Your new betting app is displayed on your home screen under the bookmaker’s name. You’re free to rename the app if you wish and move it to a place where it’s readily accessible to you.
Step 5: Start the App
With your application in place, start the app by tapping on the icon to open it. The action instantly loads the mobile site, and you’re ready to wager.
How to Sign Up with a Betting Site in California
If you are new to California sports betting sites, you may not be familiar with all the information you require to sign up. The following five steps can be completed swiftly and safely on all of our top ten CA betting sites.
Step 1: Choose an Online Betting Site
Select any of the top betting sites on this page to sign up to. To show an example of how to sign up, we have used our number one California sportsbook, BetOnline.
Step 2: Create a Betting Account
The form will show you every detail you need to provide to set up your new BetOnline account.
Step 3: Verification
A verification link will be sent to the email address you provided in step two. Click through on this link to verify your account.
Step 4: Fund Your Account & Enter a Promo Code
You will be presented with all of the potential payment options that BetOnline accepts. Choose your bonus and banking method, and you can make your first deposit.
Step 5: Start Playing
You can now navigate to your favorite sports and place a bet which takes your eye.
Responsible Gambling in California
In California, as in anywhere in the world, it is vital to gamble responsibly when betting on sports online. California sports betting should be a fun experience, but this can only be achieved if you are betting within your means and with what you can afford to lose.
It is worth setting things like self-exclusion limits on your online sports betting account so that you never bet more than a certain amount each month. However, sometimes we can begin gambling irresponsibly without even knowing it. Check out our Responsible Gambling page, or if you want further help, check out the following state and nationwide resources.
The Best Sportsbook in California
Number one among the best sites for online sports betting in California is BetOnline. Its platform is the best for traditional payment methods, with bonuses handed out regularly for all customers, whether new or existing.
As well as this, there are competitive odds across all of the biggest betting sports in the US, while you can deposit or withdraw via any of 16 different cryptocurrencies too.
California Sports Betting FAQs
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in California?
Are Offshore Sites for Sports Betting in California Secure?
What Payment and Withdrawal Methods do California Sportsbooks Accept?
What are the Most Popular Sports to Bet On?
Is a Minimum Deposit Required to Bet Online?
Will an Online Betting Site Ban Me for Winning?
