Best Sports Betting Apps in California
The best California sports betting apps are Bovada and BetOnline.
Is Bovada Legal in California?
Both Bovada and BetOnline offer online sports betting in California.
What sports betting apps are legal in California?
Since regulated betting apps like FanDuel and DraftKings are unavailable for Californians, using offshore sportsbooks such as BetOnline and Bovada are recommended as both have 20+ year track records and offer legal online betting in California.
Good to Know Information
Top Online California Sports Betting Apps
We have provided detailed reviews of the top California betting sites which can help you decide which is the best online sports betting site for your requirements:
BetOnline is a popular online sports betting site in California, known for its opinionated lines and offering a more personalized approach to sports betting. The platform boasts a sleek betting interface, which makes it easy to navigate for both seasoned and novice players in California. Additionally, BetOnline is known for competitive parlay and teaser payouts, attracting California users who enjoy maximizing their potential returns.
The sportsbook at BetOnline sets itself apart with its opinionated lines, giving players an edge on any game, anywhere in the world. Californians can also expect to find knowledgable and helpful customer service that treats every player like a VIP.
No Strings Welcome Offer
BetOnline’s “No Strings” Welcome Offer gives California players up to $250 to start betting. Use promo code FREE250 and deposit at least $50 to get 50% of your deposit back in Free Bet credit immediately, plus 100 Free Spins — 10 per day for 10 days.
This offer is exclusively for new BetOnline customers. The bonus bet credit can be used in the Sportsbook, with winnings paid directly to your cash balance. The bonus bets expire in 30 days, and the Free Spins expire within 24 hours.
- Opinionated lines on major sports
- Broad range of bonus offers
- Faster than most sportsbook apps
Bovada is a solid choice for sports betting in California thanks to its long-standing reputation and robust features. The sportsbook’s customer service has been a hallmark of its brand, earning them trust among bettors. Bovada’s mobile app is one of the standout features, allowing bettors in California to easily place bets on the go, whether it’s on traditional sports, entertainment events or political markets.
California players can bet on entertainment and politics, from major elections to hit TV shows, adding variety beyond sports. Bovada’s bonuses and rewards program offer extra value, and its user-friendly platform makes betting easy. For those seeking unique markets and a seamless mobile experience, Bovada is a top choice.
$750 Crypto Sports Welcome Bonus
Bovada’s $750 Crypto Sports Welcome Bonus can start you off with up to $750 to bet on your favorite games. Create a free account, select the bonus and deposit with Bitcoin or Bitcoin Cash using code BTCSWB750 to get a 75% deposit match bonus. You can use it for anything but poker, so you can check out some casino games or bet on your favorite teams with less risk.
With a 5x rollover on sports and horses and 30x for casino games, you can quickly turn your bonus funds into cash. Winnings go straight to your account balance once you meet the rollover, where you can cash them out right away.
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- Unique props on sports and entertainment markets
- Mobile site performs as well as apps
Heritage Sports is among the best offshore betting sites for California players, known for its wide range of betting options and VIP service. It offers a comprehensive live betting platform with hundreds of daily bets, making real-time betting easy and exciting. Heritage Sports caters to both mainstream and niche sports markets, appealing to a variety of players.
California users praise Heritage Sports for fast payouts and 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone and email. Withdrawals are processed quickly with Bitcoin and other methods. VIP players enjoy higher limits, exclusive promos and priority payouts, making it a top choice for California bettors.
Reduced Juice – Cash Back Program
Heritage Sports’ Reduced Juice Cash Back Program lowers betting costs with -108 odds on sides and totals on popular sports like football and basketball. You also get 0.4% to 0.8% cash back quarterly with no rollover, plus parlay multipliers up to 4.5X.
The Bitcoin Boost promo adds a Free Play based on how Bitcoin performed the past month, and casino players get 8% cashback, up to $2,000 per month, claimed via chat. These offers give California players more ways to bet with bonus funds.
- Competitive reduced juice odds at -108
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Quarterly cash back for 149+ sports bets
BetAnySports is a favorite among California bettors, thanks to their -105 reduced juice lines that help you save on every bet. With competitive odds across a wide variety of markets, including moneylines, futures and props, BetAnySports has you covered for all your sports betting needs.
BetAnySports lets players attach long-term sports betting promos to their accounts for ongoing perks. Options include reduced juice, cash back and more. Instead of entering a promo code, just contact support to have the promotion added.
Less Juice Package
With BetAnySports’ Less Juice Bonus, you get -105 odds instead of the standard -110, cutting juice by 50% on major sports like the NFL, college football, NBA and college basketball.
These reduced juice lines are available for straight bets and typically posted on the day of the event, with limits from $1 to $500. To find them, log in, go to Sports and check Offshore Lines under your sport of choice. This offer helps you save money on every bet while boosting potential returns.
- Best reduced juice sports lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Works like the best sports betting apps
For bettors in California, BookMaker stands out due to its reputation as the place where betting lines often originate. What makes it particularly appealing to players in California is the combination of high betting limits and a welcoming attitude toward sharp action. Whether you’re a seasoned high roller or a casual bettor, BookMaker provides the flexibility to cater to both.
BookMaker stands out with reliable customer support and sharp odds, appealing to those who like to bet big, or enjoy a wide range of sports. Whether backing California teams or wagering on global events, BookMaker’s broad reach and high limits make it a no-brainer.
25% Cash Welcome Bonus
New players can get a 25% cash bonus up to $500 on their first deposit at BookMaker. Deposit $100 or more with any traditional deposit method, and instead of entering a code, simply claim the bonus in the Cashier. This offer is available to new players in the U.S. and Canada, with a 10x rollover on the deposit and bonus before withdrawals.
BookMaker’s rewards program gives bettors cash back on sports betting and casino play from the moment they sign up. Every bet earns points that can be exchanged for cash, and horse bettors get daily rebates, win or lose.
The program has three tiers: Gold, Platinum and Diamond, each with bigger perks. Gold members get 10% cash bonuses on $50+ reloads. Platinum gets 15% and Diamond gets 20% with top rewards. Redeeming points is easy through the Promotions section.
- High betting limits
- Renowned sports betting loyalty program
- Competes with the best sportsbook apps
Everygame offers a variety of betting markets, including sports, poker and one of the best California online casinos, all on a user-friendly platform. The reliable performance makes this sportsbook a great option for mobile sports betting, too.
Everygame’s $1,000 Crypto Sign-Up Bonus gives new players extra value on their first cryptocurrency deposit. Use the code BMRCRYPTO1K on your first deposit with Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin or Lightning Bitcoin to get a 50% deposit match, worth up to $1,000 in bonus funds.
Once you’re in, you can earn rewards points or participate in regular contests. For example, the $1,000 Parlay Prince rewards the player with the highest-profiting parlay bet each month. These offers often center around major events and professional sports teams, adding extra excitement when you’re betting on big sports leagues.
- Variety of sports and casino promotions
- Excellent customer service department
- Smoother experience than most betting apps
MyBookie is another one of the top California sportsbooks. It offers a hassle-free experience and an impressive selection of betting markets, both with American sports as well as international events. The site is very polished and works seamlessly for mobile sports betting.
This sportsbook is known for frequent bonuses, including reload offers and risk-free bets, giving players extra value. With fast payouts and 24/7 customer support, MyBookie ensures a great experience for California users.
New players can claim a 50% Sports Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 with promo code MYB50, adding extra funds right from the start. Established bettors can take advantage of a 25% Reload Bonus with promo code MYB25, rewarding them for coming back.
MyBookie also offers a 200% Referral Bonus, awarding up to $200 in free play for each friend. With seasonal promotions and risk-free bets, California players have plenty of chances to get more out of their online sports betting.
- Robust live betting platform
- Depth of sports markets
- Outperforms many traditional sportsbook apps
Best California Sportsbook Promos
Bovada’s $250 sports welcome bonus is a great incentive to join Bovada. When you sign up and make your first deposit of at least $20, you’ll receive a 50% deposit match bonus worth up to $250.
To claim the sign-up bonus, customers must contact customer support to activate it.
Enjoy a 25% cash bonus when depositing with credit card to your newly created BookMaker account.
JustBet offers a cash sign-up bonus for new crypto users, allowing them to receive a 20% bonus worth up to $500, on their initial deposit using Bitcoin.
Score a 50% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 on your first-ever Everygame deposit. Use promo code BMRCRYPTO1K and get your 50% Bonus.
Top Player Reviews for California Betting Apps
Read authentic player reviews from California bettors sharing their experiences using top-rated sports betting apps. This section provides genuine insights into app performance, available bonuses, customer service, and ease of use, directly from local users. Let fellow Californians guide you in choosing the betting app that best fits your preferences.
BetOnline Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
Bovada Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
Heritage Sports Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
BetAnySports Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
BookMaker Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
Everygame Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
MyBookie Customer Reviews
Ratings Summary
How to Bet on Sports in California
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1
Pick Your Sportsbook
Choose an offshore sportsbook available in your preferred region. Register by clicking “Join” and fill out your personal details such as your name, email address and phone number. -
2
Claim a Bonus
Select from available promotions and deposit match offers. It’s recommended to use crypto if available since generally speaking mobile apps offer larger bonuses if using crypto. -
3
Deposit Funds
Find the cashier, pick your payment method — credit cards, wire transfers or crypto — and confirm your deposit. -
4
Place a Bet
Pick your sport — NFL, NBA, NHL or more — and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then confirm your wager.
California Sports Betting Updates
California cardrooms spent millions targeting lawmakers post-vote. Their goal: to push back against efforts that could limit their operations or favor tribal casinos. This spending also served as a warning to others about the potential financial consequences. Tribal leaders made it clear they won’t back any online sports betting measures. Their priority remains protecting their existing casino operations. Progess will remain stalled until 2028.
California’s Assembly passed SB 549, which gives California tribes a one-time legal chance to sue cardrooms over offering games like blackjack — arguing that these games should be exclusive to California’s tribal casinos. This sets up a possible legal showdown aimed at preserving tribal exclusivity over house-banked games.
California’s cardroom debate reignites as the “Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act” (SB549) advances in the Assembly. This controversy overshadows progress on sports betting legalization.
The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) questioned whether daily fantasy sports (DFS) and pick’em-style games are legal in the state. These games operate in a gray area and often resemble forms of legal sports betting. CNIGA’s push adds pressure on the state to regulate or restrict these offerings, potentially to protect tribal gaming interests.
The Sports Betting Alliance — which includes FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM and Fanatics — publicly opposed the current efforts to bring legalized sports betting to California in early 2024. The group said the measures lacked tribal support and raised concerns about their structure. According to the Alliance, the plans could limit market potential and create a poor foundation for legal California sportsbooks.
The Future of Legal California Sports Betting
California has long been a hub for legal gambling. Live poker has been available at licensed cardrooms since before the state joined the Union in 1850. It’s also home to legendary horse racing venues like Santa Anita Park and Del Mar, where parimutuel wagering has been legal for nearly a century. But when it comes to legal online sports betting, California remains on the sidelines.
This is surprising given the state’s size, influence and deep connection to sports. From packed college stadiums on Saturdays to sell-out crowds at NBA arenas, there’s no shortage of passion here. Take the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports. With stars like LeBron James drawing national attention, it’s easy to assume residents could bet on the action — but that’s not the case.
While fans in other states can bet from their phones during big games, Californians still don’t have access to a state-regulated sportsbook. Voters have rejected multiple ballot propositions, and with no agreement between tribes and online sportsbook operators, change is unlikely in the short term.
What needs to happen for California sports betting to become legal?
To legalize sports betting in California, the state’s constitution would need to be amended. That process requires a ballot proposition, which can be placed before voters through California’s “direct democracy” system. Once on the ballot, it only takes a simple majority — more than 50% — to pass.
But getting that kind of support has proven difficult. The gambling industry in California is largely shaped by tribal casinos, and they’ve pushed back hard against any sports betting initiatives that might threaten their control. This was especially clear in 2022, when California voters rejected two competing measures: Prop 26, backed by the tribes, and Prop 27, supported by big-name online sportsbooks like BetMGM and DraftKings.
The failure of both measures showed how divided the issue of legal sports betting still is. Without a unified proposal that brings both tribal leaders and commercial operators to the table, future efforts are likely to stall. The next realistic opportunity to try again could be the 2026 election — but unless the key players agree on terms, California sports betting sites will stay on the shelf.
Will California sports teams push for legalization?
Yes, but mostly behind the scenes. Many of the state’s top teams — like the Dodgers, Giants, Padres and Angels — are part of leagues with business ties to sportsbooks such as DraftKings and FanDuel. These companies spent around $70 million backing Proposition 27 in 2022, with indirect support from their league partners.
While the teams aren’t leading public campaigns, they have a clear financial interest in legal California sports betting. If new sports betting legislation gains traction — especially with tribal support — expect California’s pro teams to quietly push for it to pass.
Potential Timeline for Legal Sports Betting
There’s a real chance California voters could decide whether to make sports betting legal in 2026. That would be the next major election where a new ballot measure could appear.
In 2022, voters rejected both Prop 26 (33% Yes) and Prop 27 (17.7% Yes), showing little support for either approach. And in 2024, two new initiatives aimed at creating a tribal-run sports betting industry failed to gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot.
Will California offer online sports betting?
It seems inevitable that California will legalize online sports betting as soon as any sports betting initiatives pass. While Californians overwhelmingly voted against Props 26 and 27, they have shown in the past that they’re eager for sports gambling; a 2022 poll by the Institute of Governmental Studies at UC Berkeley showed Californians 45-33 in favor, with 22% undecided.
The last two sports betting initiatives had multiple issues that could, in theory, be corrected for once all the parties have agreed on how to divide that $40 billion per annum.
Legal Options for the 2026 Midterm Elections
If you’re in California and want to bet on the 2026 U.S. elections — from the midterms to local races in cities like Los Angeles, Oakland, Anaheim and Long Beach — your options are limited. Technically, you can use social sportsbooks that let you buy and redeem tokens instead of betting with cash, similar to daily fantasy sports. But even if local California sportsbooks were available, election betting follows a completely different set of rules.
Where to Legally Bet on Politics
Offshore betting sites are definitely the way to go if you want to bet on politics in California. These sportsbooks are fully legal in California and operate in jurisdictions like Costa Rica, offering political odds through online betting platforms.
Since 2024, platforms like Kalshi have allowed access to political markets, though availability varies by location. Sites like the Iowa Electronic Markets have also offered election-based trading for decades.
Key 2026 Races
- California Gubernatorial Election: Incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom (D) is term-limited, leaving Katie Porter and Kamala Harris as the top favorites to replace him.
- U.S. House Races: All 52 of California’s congressional seats will be on the ballot. With Democrats holding a strong majority, several key swing districts could draw national attention. The outcome may impact which party controls the House in 2027.
Keep checking Bookmakers Review for the latest updates on California sports betting and the most recent election betting odds from the Golden State.
How We Review the Best California Sports Betting Sites
BMR is a leading industry watchdog. We work hard to shine a light on reputable sportsbooks and hold dishonest sites to account. Our experts carefully vet every sports betting site available in California and we only recommend online sports wagering platforms that treat players fairly and payout on time.
We also review the strengths and weaknesses of each sportsbook in detail before assigning it a rating (from 10 to 1).
Mobile Betting Experience
The overall mobile betting experience is an important consideration. We looked for California sports betting sites that were easy to navigate, so you can find your favorite leagues and games you are interested in with ease.
The bet slip should be user-friendly too and easily allow you to place all types of bets, just like the desktop version. The best sites also provide added features, such as a same-game parlay builder and pre-game stats, to improve the online betting experience.
Quality of Betting Odds & Lines
The best California betting sites offer competitive betting odds on sports such as pro football, Major League Baseball, basketball, hockey, golf, tennis, MMA, boxing and soccer. Sites like Heritage Sports and BetAnySports stand out by offering reduced juice lines, which means better betting odds that improve a bettor’s long-term prospects of achieving profitability.
Betting Bonuses
We look for online sportsbooks with generous offers with reasonable wagering requirements. We favor sites that offer a good variety of promotions and different types of bonuses. That includes deposit bonuses, ongoing reload bonuses and other promotions.
We look for generous offers with reasonable wagering requirements. These deals allow you to play with house money and they can boost your chances of profiting on sports betting.
Live Betting & Streaming
Mobile sites are ideal for live betting. You can pick up your phone and rapidly place a bet on a game you are watching, without needing to turn on your computer. The best sports betting operators make it very quick and easy for you to place live bets. They provide plenty of live wagering options, with competitive betting odds available. Some California sports betting sites, such as BetOnline, also offer live streaming.
Online Banking Options & Payout Speeds
The top California sportsbooks offer a solid variety of payment options including a variety of cryptocurrencies. As they are based overseas, we often find that crypto is the best option for quick, safe transactions. However, you can also use credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers and wire transfers.
The best operators feature swift payment processing, so they offer quick payout timings. Same-day payouts are sometimes offered for users who prefer using cryptocurrencies for payment (not to mention extra bonuses).
Customer Service
Our A+ rated California betting operators provide 24/7 support through a variety of customer service methods. You can call the customer support team, use live chat or send an email. They have multilingual, experienced agents who can deal with a variety of requests quickly and diligently.
We always test out the customer service department and response times before recommending a California betting site or app.
Reputation & Security
We are very careful to only recommend highly secure and reputable betting sites that pay out customers’ winnings. Operators like BookMaker and BetOnline have been in business for decades and they have always paid out on time and in full. They can be trusted to grade all wagers fairly and to uphold the terms laid out on their sites.
Sports Gambling Taxes in California
Any winnings you get from online gambling are considered income. Whether you’re using one of our top-rated online sports betting sites, or you visit a physical book in a state that has legal sports betting, you’re responsible for paying your taxes. In this section, we’ll break down everything you need to know about online sports betting and the IRS.
Do you have to report sports betting winnings?
Yes. The IRS expects sports bettors to report their winnings as taxable income, both for retail sports betting and online gambling. If you win a significant amount, you are required to include it when you do your taxes.
- Federal Taxes: Sports betting winnings are subject to federal income tax. Larger payouts may have taxes withheld automatically, but all winnings should be reported, regardless of the amount.
- State Taxes: Currently, there are no local California sports betting sites to consider for state taxes; however, if you go to a retail sports betting venue or bet online in another state, you will be subject to those state taxes.
Will offshore sportsbooks report your winnings?
Local, legal sportsbooks report directly to the IRS, but offshore sports betting sites don’t have the same laws. Even though offshore operators do not report to the IRS, users are still responsible for reporting any income they receive from sports betting in California.
How to Report Winnings from Online Sports Betting
If you win more than $600 from a legal online betting operator, you may receive Form W-2G
Winnings under that threshold still need to be reported as “other income”
Keeping records of deposits, wins, losses and withdrawals is recommended to stay accurate
Can you deduct gambling losses?
Yes, but only if you itemize deductions on your federal tax return. Losses can be deducted up to the total amount of reported gambling winnings. Losses cannot be claimed if you take the standard deduction.
California Betting Options
Most sports betting sites will have the most popular bet types, like standard point spreads, moneylines and totals. However, you should find a wide variety of additional markets at the best sportsbooks. Your choices should include:
- Alternate Lines: Different odds and point spreads for the same event
- Live Betting: Live betting is betting on a game while it’s happening, with changing odds
- Futures: Bets on the outcome of upcoming events, usually you can bet on major sports events, like championship winners
- Game Props: Bets on specific events within a game, like the first team to score
- Player Prop Bets: Wagers on individual player performances, such as scoring points
- Parlays: A single bet combining multiple wagers, requiring all to win for a payout
- Same Game Parlays: Combining multiple bets from one game into a single parlay
- Progressive Parlays: Parlay bets that offer payouts even if some picks lose
- Round Robins: Multiple parlay bets created from a larger list of bets
- Teasers: Parlay bets with adjusted point spreads for lower payout odds
- Pleasers: Parlay bets with less favorable lines for higher potential payouts
- If Bets: A second bet placed only if the first bet wins
- Reverse Bets: Two if bets in both forward and reverse order
Learning these different options can help you optimize your betting strategy and make the most out of your wagers. Many sites also have other gaming options, like a racebook or casino.
California Sports Betting Bonuses and Promotions
You can choose from a wide variety of California sportsbooks. They know how competitive the market is, so they offer sportsbook bonuses and promotions to gain new customers. These are the main types of mobile betting bonuses that you can typically find at an online betting app:
Sign-Up Bonuses
Most online sports betting platforms offer a new user bonus to help encourage players to register. The most popular offer is a deposit match. For example, BetOnline matches 50% of your first deposit with bonus credits, up to a maximum of $250, whereas Bovada offers a 75% deposit match up to $750.
Sometimes you need a bonus code to unlock the welcome offer, but you can normally just click through from BMR, sign up and make a deposit to qualify. Your bonus funds will come with rollover requirements, including a minimum deposit. You need to complete them before cashing out any of the money left over.
Existing Customer Promotions
The best California sportsbooks will also offer bonus bets and other promos designed to drum up repeat business. These offers encourage customers to come back on a regular basis to place bets. The most common offer is a reload bonus, which is similar to a sign-up bonus, but the deposit match is usually smaller and it is available from your second deposit.
Additional offers include referral bonuses, odds boosts, parlay profit boosts, insurance deals and other money-back specials, contests, prize draws, free bets and risk-free bets. If you visit the promotions page at your preferred sports betting site, you will see a detailed list of the bonuses on offer and a list of the promo codes you need.
No Deposit Bonuses
You may be offered a no-deposit bonus at some California sportsbooks in future. It means you receive bonus funds and you do not need to make a minimum deposit to earn them.
However, you do have to complete a considerable rollover requirement before the sportsbook will allow you to cash out a profit. Yet you are in with a chance of earning a risk-free payout and you also get to test the site out, so these no-deposit bonuses are often appealing.
Free Bets
Some betting sites that accept California players will offer you free bets or bonus bets. For example, BetOnline gives customers up to $250 in free play to use on a sports betting market after signing up. Sometimes, these types of bonuses require a minimum deposit.
Popular California Sports Teams to Bet On
You can bet on sports in California across a wide range of teams, from pro leagues to college programs. The state is packed with action, and these are some of the most popular teams people follow and wager on.
NFL Teams
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams returned to Los Angeles in 2016 and quickly reestablished themselves as a major force in the NFL. Their 2021 Super Bowl win under head coach Sean McVay helped solidify the franchise’s reputation for aggressive play-calling and strong defensive talent. With stars like Aaron Donald and Cooper Kupp, Rams games often attract action on props, totals and moneyline bets.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are one of the most successful teams in NFL history, with five Super Bowl wins and several playoff appearances in recent years. Known mostly for their standout defense, they regularly draw heavy betting attention, especially during NFC West matchups and postseason games.
Los Angeles Chargers
Sharing SoFi Stadium with the Rams, the Chargers have built a reputation as one of the most exciting teams in the league. With quarterback Justin Herbert leading a high-powered offense, they’re often involved in close, high-scoring games. This makes them a strong option for point spread bets, team totals and overs.
NBA Teams
Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors have reshaped the NBA over the past ten years. Led by Stephen Curry, the team has claimed four NBA titles since 2015. Their style of play leads to frequent action in markets tied to totals, player props and live betting. Whether it’s a regular season matchup or a deep playoff run, Golden State remains one of the most popular teams to follow.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers aren’t just one of the top California NBA teams — they’re a household name on a global scale with 17 titles and a long list of legendary players. They remain a top draw for player props and parlays, especially when the roster includes big names like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Whether they’re favored or underdogs, Lakers games usually see high betting volume.
LA Clippers
While often overshadowed by the Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers have become serious contenders in recent NBA seasons. With stars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, they bring strong defensive matchups and playoff experience. Clippers games offer value on spreads and totals, especially during tough Western Conference clashes.
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings have built a strong young core, with De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis leading the way. After ending their playoff drought, they’ve become a solid team to watch in the West. Kings games often feature high scores, making them popular for totals and player props. Their fast pace and rising profile have made them a more active option in recent seasons.
MLB Teams
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers are one of MLB’s top teams year after year, regularly topping the NL West and competing deep into October. Known for their depth and elite pitching staff, they’re a popular pick for daily moneyline bets and season-long futures. Home games at Dodger Stadium are also big targets for over/under wagers.
San Francisco Giants
The Giants have enjoyed World Series wins in 2010, 2012, and 2014, and continue to play competitive baseball. They’re known for smart roster building and strong bullpen work, which makes them a favorite for late-game baseball betting. Their rivalry with the Dodgers adds another layer of betting interest.
San Diego Padres
The Padres have emerged as a baseball powerhouse in recent years with a star-studded roster featuring names like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado. Their games tend to be high-scoring, offering value if you’re targeting overs and player prop markets. San Diego also draws strong futures action during the MLB playoff season.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels may not always contend, but with stars like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, they remain one of the most watched teams in MLB. Typically, the focus is on player props and game totals in Angels matchups, especially when their star players are in the lineup.
NHL Teams
Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks are in a rebuilding phase but continue to deliver competitive games and young talent. NHL fans often look to Anaheim matchups for value in puck lines and goal totals, especially when playing at home against high-profile teams.
Los Angeles Kings
The Kings won two Stanley Cups in the 2010s and have stayed competitive since. Their tight-checking style and playoff history make them a solid option in moneyline markets. Games against Pacific Division rivals often carry added weight.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks have a long-standing presence in Northern California and regularly compete hard in the Western Conference. Their games tend to draw regional betting action, with strong interest in totals and puck line wagers during rivalry matchups, particularly against the Kings and Ducks.
MLS Teams
LAFC
Founded in 2018, LAFC has quickly become one of the league’s most successful clubs. Known for their aggressive offense and packed stadium atmosphere, they’re a top pick in match result and goal total markets. The LA derby against the Galaxy is one of the most bet-on matches during soccer season.
LA Galaxy
The LA Galaxy are one of Major League Soccer’s most decorated clubs, with five league titles and a history of attracting top international talent. Their matches often carry extra weight in the market, especially during high-profile rivalries like the El Tráfico clash with LAFC.
NCAA Teams
USC Trojans
USC is a storied program in both football and basketball, with national championships and Heisman winners to its name. With recent coaching changes and a move to the Big Ten, betting interest in USC is strong, particularly in spread and futures markets.
UCLA Bruins
UCLA holds the record for the most men’s basketball championships and is a strong contender in football as well. Their deep March Madness runs and Pac-12 rivalries keep them front and center for college sports bettors every season.
Stanford Cardinal
Stanford has a strong academic and athletic reputation, with steady performances across multiple sports. They bring interest in conference matchups in any sport, especially for under-the-radar value plays.
California Golden Bears
Cal has a loyal following and competitive teams in both football and basketball. Their Pac-12 schedule includes several high-profile matchups each year, making them a frequent pick for point spreads and totals.
Online Sports Betting Banking Methods in California
One of the perks of online sports betting is having access to payment methods that work for you. When comparing the best California sportsbooks, you should make sure they accept the following:
- Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Debit or prepaid card
- Check (via online banking)
- Bank wire transfers
- P2P payment services like PayPal
- Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum or LiteCoin
Bitcoin and other forms of crypto are great options for your transactions as well. Additional banking methods can include an e-check, a P2P transfer, a wire transfer or an e-wallet such as Skrill and Neteller.
Conclusion
While residents wait for lawmakers to legalize California sports betting, offshore sites like BetOnline, Bovada and BookMaker remain a trusted option for residents looking to bet on sports. These reputable online platforms provide a safe and legal way to enjoy sports wagering.
You’ll find offering competitive odds on popular sports leagues worldwide, frequent promotions and a broad range of betting markets, along with other options like poker and horse racing.
California Sports Betting FAQs
What sportsbooks are legal in California?
Top international sportsbooks like Bovada and Everygame let Californians bet on sports on any device. These apps deliver a smooth, responsive experience, extensive sports coverage from major leagues to niche events, live in-game betting and more.
What apps can I use to sports bet in California?
Top international sportsbooks like Bovada and Everygame let Californians bet on sports on any device. These apps deliver a smooth, responsive experience, extensive sports coverage from major leagues to niche events, live in-game betting and more.
How can I bet online if I live in California?
California bettors can use reputable sites like BetOnline, Bovada and BookMaker, which provide secure, user-friendly platforms and a wide lineup of sports markets. These online sportsbooks are fully legal in California and offer tons of different markets and bet types, on everything from college sports to the NHL.
Can I use FanDuel Sportsbook in California?
FanDuel Sportsbook isn’t legal in California, but many bettors choose trusted international sportsbooks. These platforms feature exclusive betting lines, high payouts and special promotions for major events, providing a dynamic experience for California sports fans.
Can I sports bet in California online?
Yes, many Californians place bets through licensed international sportsbooks that provide a broad selection of sports, easy navigation and exclusive bonuses. With features like early odds, customizable lines and flexible crypto deposits, these platforms offer an ideal setup for California players.
Is the Caesars Sportsbook app legal in California?
Caesars Sportsbook is not legal in California, as tall legislative efforts have failed so far. However, players in the Golden State can use sportsbooks like BetOnline to wager on their favorite sports.
Can l play DraftKings in California?
DraftKings is only available for daily fantasy sports in California. However, it is perfectly legal for you to use online sportsbooks and online casino sites based offshore. BetOnline and Bovada are both common options for CA players.
More Guides to Betting in California
Sports betting in California adds some excitement to watching your favorite sports teams. But when your teams aren’t playing, you can play online casino games from the comfort of your couch, bet on horse races or try your luck at online poker.
- Horse Racing: California is a major hub for horse racing, with several well-known horse racing tracks across the state. It’s no surprise that residents have access to a wide range of
- Online Casinos: Local options like tribal casinos may not offer online casino gambling, but you can gamble legally at one of the top
- Online Poker: The best online poker sites in California offer live dealer games and many other ways to play your favorite card game.
Table of Contents
California Sports Betting News
California Sports Betting a Long Shot in 2026
California’s tribal leaders have confirmed that mobile sports betting will not be supported by tribes until at least 2028. Despite the state’s large potential market,
California Cardrooms Send a Stern Signal to Lawmakers Who Vote Against Them
California cardrooms spent several million dollars attacking legislators who voted against their interests after the legislation had been passed. It’s an unusual tactic to attack
Legislators Empower California Tribes to Take Cardroom Dispute to Court
California lawmakers approved SB549, allowing tribes a one-time chance to sue cardrooms over gaming rights. As the bill heads to Governor Newsom, it could reshape
California Tribes Closer To Challenging Cardrooms in Court
California tribes aim to challenge cardrooms over games like blackjack and baccarat, and the recent unanimous passage of SB 549 by the state Assembly moves
