Sports bettors in California can finally explore various options beyond daily fantasy sports.
Our betting expert Samuel is on the road again to investigate, this time testing sports betting sites in California. He’s reviewed 37 sites to shortlist the ones that stand out with various markets, generous bonus offers, and an easy payout experience.
Find his full research below.
In a rush? California sports betting site Samuel liked the most after 95 hours of research:
BetWhale
Samuel, the lead iGaming expert at Northeast Times, believes that BetWhale is the top choice for California sports bettors, thanks to its excellent NFL and college football odds, fast and reliable payouts, and intuitive betting interface. |
Is BetWhale not quite what you’re after? Samuel also liked these California online sportsbooks:
- BetOnline: Great option for crypto users
- BetUS: Great for loyal bettors (the reload bonuses can’t be beat)
- Sportsbetting.ag: Samuel’s favorite for live betting
- Everygame: His go-to site for MMA and boxing
Why trust us
We’re an independent newspaper with years of reputation on the line.
We hired an iGaming expert, Samuel, to cover the ongoing rise of online gambling websites and present our readers with the safest options while blacklisting the ones that don’t meet his standards.
We sponsor him to travel and write stories for us, testing betting sites and online casinos in different locations where we have readers.
Samuel’s opinion on California sports betting sites
1. BetWhale – Great California sportsbook for football odds and fast payouts
Pros:
- 150% deposit boost
- Excellent odds for NFL and college football
- Dozens of sports to choose from
- Secure crypto and fiat banking options
- 24/7 phone and email support
- Easy signup
Cons:
- No in-app streaming of live events
- Would like to see more e-wallet options
As a football fan traveling in California, I’ve found BetWhale to be an excellent choice for betting, especially when it comes to popular teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, and USC Trojans.
What stood out to me immediately was the quality of their football odds, both for NFL games and college matchups. It feels like you’re getting a real advantage when betting on local teams, and that’s not something I’ve experienced with every site.
One feature I particularly appreciated was the 150% deposit boost. It’s a generous way to get started, helping me build my bankroll and feel more confident placing my first bets.
I also liked that the welcome bonus has no maximum cashout, which is a big plus for someone like me who likes to plan my bets carefully.
“The excellent NFL odds, combined with the no max cashout on the welcome bonus, make BetWhale fantastic for those of us who have done our homework in advance.”
There are a couple of areas where this site could improve, though. Adding live-streaming options and more e-wallet support would improve my overall experience.
That said, I’ve been impressed with the site’s user-friendliness, and their customer service has been reliable whenever I had questions.
Overall, BetWhale has been a strong pick for me, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for competitive odds and a straightforward, enjoyable betting experience.
Check out Betwhale for yourself
2. BetOnline – Good California sports betting site for crypto deposits and VIP bettors
Pros:
- $250 in free bets
- $50 risk-free live bet
- Competitive odds across 25+ sports
- Frequent sports contests
- Accepts over 15 forms of crypto
- 24/7 live chat and phone support
Cons:
- Slow payouts on some options
- Limited eSports markets
I know we’re not here to talk about casinos, but as someone who enjoys sports betting and online casino games, I’ve found BetOnline a great choice.
It’s not just a sportsbook but also a hub for slots, card games, and poker tournaments. What really caught my attention was how good it is for crypto users with its fast payouts.
BetOnline supports over 15 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and even niche coins like Dogecoin and Tron. Unsurprisingly, this CA betting site also ranks as one of the fastest-paying casinos.
“If you haven’t embraced crypto for your online betting yet, you’re missing out – especially with sportsbooks like BetOnline out there. Better bonuses. More security. Instant payouts. What’s not to love?”
BetOnline seems to have it covered, whether I’m betting on NBA, MLB, or NFL games or exploring more niche options like international league events or darts.
Another highlight for me is the generous $250 free bet bonus for first-time depositors. It’s a nice boost when starting out, and the awesome VIP program adds even more value.
It doesn’t come without some minor drawbacks though. Notably, deposits made via credit card incur a 6% fee, which can add up over time, but it’s also a more of a reason to stick to crypto so I can’t judge them too hard for this.
3. BetUS – Leading California online sports betting site for horse racing and reload bonuses
Pros:
- 125% sign-up package for casino and sports betting
- Up to 50% re-up bonus on every crypto deposit
- A huge selection of races from around the world
- Unique BetUS TV feature
- Easy-to-use props builder
Cons:
- Can’t explore live betting lines without an account
- Limited free bet offers
As someone who enjoys both sports betting and horse racing, I’ve been really impressed with what BetUS has to offer. They cover over 20 sports with great odds, including some excellent options. But what really stood out to me was their racebook – it’s easily one of the best I’ve come across.
Horse racing fans like me will find events from all over the world, including races in the U.S., Canada, Australia, the UK, and Sweden. BetUS offers promotions like the Money Back Special, which refunds your wager if the horse you bet on to win comes in second or third.
“While the rollover on bonuses was a little higher than some of the competitors I looked at, the sheer size of each promotion – especially the re-up offers – more than made up for it.”
Speaking of great promotions, BetUS offers players a 125% match welcome bonus to get started. 100% of your first deposit is matched as a sports betting bonus while the other 25% match is usable at the casino.
On top of that, BetUS offers a host of cashback bonuses, special offers for crypto users, and massive reload bonuses of up to 200% matched.
Overall, while there are a few minor trade-offs, like the higher rollover, the variety of promotions and betting options at BetUS are still great. Whether you’re into sports betting or horse racing, it’s well worth checking out.
4. Sportsbetting.ag – Great for live basketball and mobile betting
Pros:
- 50% welcome bonus up to $500
- Great odds on early and in-play basketball
- Intuitive live betting interface
- Mobile-friendly design
- 24/7 customer support service
Cons:
- Limited horse racing options
- Fees on many fiat banking options
Whether you’re a fan of the Los Angeles Clippers or a die-hard hockey fan hunting for decent lines on the Los Angeles Kings, I have found Sportsbetting.ag’s markets and live betting options a great place to start.
I was most impressed with the sharp odds on both NBA and NCAA basketball games, especially for in-play events. The site makes it easy for fans to stay on top of the action, with odds adjusting in real time.
The live betting platform is user-friendly and looks great on mobile, simplifying the betting process so that placing bets on the go is effortless.
While most events do not have in-app streaming, the ability to place your bets from your phone means you can enjoy some wings at the local sports bar, watch the game, and still stay on top of your wagers.
If you’re not too concerned about live betting, this sportsbook still delivers an exceptional experience, especially with its comprehensive same-game parlay betting tools.
“Parlay bets are not for everyone, but if you’re tired of playing it safe with low-stakes bets, Sportsbetting’s Parlay Builder is the only way to go.”
Of course, the platform isn’t perfect. The horse racing options are pretty limited, which was a slight letdown since I was curious about placing a few wagers on international races. Also, some deposit methods come with surprisingly high fees, which might be worth considering if you’re not using crypto.
Discover what Sportsbetting.ag has to offer
5. Everygame – Top odds for boxing and UFC events
Pros:
- $1,000 crypto welcome bonus
- Excellent odds on combat sports
- NFL pools, trip giveaways, and other promos
- Top-notch customer support
Cons:
- Fewer betting markets than some competitors
- Limited crypto banking options
While Everygame doesn’t offer as many sports markets as some of the other California betting sites I’ve tried (around 15 compared to BetWhale’s 25+), the odds I came across during my review really stood out and made up for the smaller selection.
Especially for boxing and MMA events, Everygame stood out with its competitive odds. While it may lack some of the niche betting options you’d find at other top sites, the odds on popular sports like the NFL, NBA, and major combat events make it a strong choice. Even with a smaller selection of markets, there’s still plenty of value to be found.
“Honestly, you won’t even miss the sports markets that this sportsbook lacks. Everygame has really trimmed the fat so it can focus on providing great odds on major sporting events – plus a wide range of stock market bets if you’re feeling clever.”
The variety of promotions, including a $1,000 crypto welcome bonus, NFL pools, and trip giveaways, stood out to me. Even if you’re not into high-stakes betting, there’s something here worth checking out.
Other California sports betting sites Samuel tested that didn’t make the top 5
- Bovada: One of the most comprehensive sports betting California sites around, but didn’t make the top 5 due to dual lines for sharp bettors
- MyBookie: Amazing promotions and competitive odds, but limited payout options
- BUSR: Massive $2,500 welcome bonus, but lackluster esports representation
- Wild.io: Huge selection of international markets, but bonuses favor the casino
- XBet: $200 in bonus bets and a wide range of markets, but limited bonus variety
These are just a few of the other online sports betting sites in California that I explored while researching during my travels. While none of them made it into my top five, it was a close call – they only fell short in a few minor areas.
That said, I plan to keep revisiting all the sites I’ve reviewed to make sure I’m recommending the best options available.
As these sites continue to evolve, whether by adding new features, expanding sports coverage, improving user experience, or introducing better bonuses, my top picks might shift.
Based on what I’ve seen, these are the most likely candidates to break into my favorites in the future.
California sports betting updates
During my travels, I’ve noticed that California is still navigating its path toward fully embracing legalized gambling. For now, out-of-state options featured here remain excellent alternatives for anyone looking to bet on sports while in California.
Here’s a streamlined timeline of the most significant recent events:
- October 2024: James Siva, chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), signals that a vote on legal tribal sports betting may not occur until 2026 or even 2028, highlighting the slow pace of progress.
- June 2024: The U.S. Supreme Court denies the West Flagler appeal, a major legal development with implications for online sports betting nationwide, though California’s challenges remain unaffected.
- January 2024: Legislative proposals to advance sports betting in California stall, delaying potential legalization to 2026 and underscoring continued difficulties in gaining broad support.
- November 2023: California tribal leaders formally oppose recent sports betting ballot initiatives, effectively preventing their passage due to the critical role of tribal approval in gambling legislation.
Top sports teams in California
As I’ve traveled through California, one thing has become abundantly clear – this state loves its teams.
With such a variety of professional teams across multiple leagues, it’s no wonder sports betting sites pay special attention to California fans.
NFL Betting in California
Football is the most popular sport in the betting world, and California is home to some of the most iconic NFL teams. During my journey, I noticed how passionate fans are about these teams:
- Los Angeles Chargers
- Los Angeles Rams
- San Francisco 49ers
NBA Betting in California
Basketball is another favorite in California, and the NBA offers plenty of betting opportunities. Whether it’s the Golden State Warriors dominating the court or the Lakers’ historic legacy, California basketball keeps fans engaged all year round. Here are the teams I’ve come across on my travels:
- Golden State Warriors
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Sacramento Kings
MLB Betting in California
Baseball holds a special place in American sports, and California has some of the most storied MLB teams in the country. Traveling across the state, I couldn’t help but notice how deeply connected fans are to their hometown heroes:
- Los Angeles Angels
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- Oakland Athletics
- San Diego Padres
How to know if a California sports betting site is safe
With so many betting sites available in California, I know how tricky it can be to figure out which ones are safe and worth your time. Over the years, I’ve learned to look for a few key things to help spot the real winners, and I’m sharing them here to make your search a little easier:
Licensing and regulation
In my experience, one of the first things I check when choosing a sportsbook is whether it’s licensed by a recognized regulatory authority, like the Malta Gaming Authority or Curacao eGaming.
These licenses are a good sign that the site follows strict standards for fairness, security, and responsible gaming, which helps me feel confident it’s safe to use. You can usually find this information at the bottom of the sportsbook’s homepage.
SSL encryption
When I’m checking out online sports betting sites in California, one of the first things I look for is SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to protect my personal and financial information. It’s easy to spot—just look for a locked padlock symbol in the URL bar or make sure the website starts with “https.” It’s a fairly simple way to make sure the site is secure before signing up.
Transparent payment policies
When I choose an online sportsbook in California, I always make sure the company clearly outlines its payment policies. It’s important to know the details about withdrawal and deposit options, processing times, and any fees upfront.
I also look for sites that accept secure payment methods like major credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies – having those options gives me peace of mind.
Responsive customer support
For me, a friendly and responsive support team is a must when trying out a new sportsbook in California. I avoid sites that take forever to respond – live chat should only take a few minutes, and emails shouldn’t go unanswered for more than 24 hours.
The best sportsbooks I’ve used have 24/7 customer support, which is a huge plus, especially when I’m betting late at night or on a tight schedule. It’s reassuring to know help is available whenever I need it.
“One of the best ways to get a peek behind the curtains is to read up on player reviews. You can check out Reddit or other social media sites and get a clear picture straight from the mouths of other players.”
My tips for sports betting in California
Sports betting is a lot of fun, but I’ve learned that it’s easy to burn through your bankroll if you’re not careful. Over time, I’ve picked up some tips and strategies that have helped me make the most of my wagers at the top gambling sites in California and around the country.
Research before you bet
For me, successful betting starts with making informed decisions. Before placing a wager, I always research the teams, players, recent performance, injuries, weather conditions, and anything else that could impact the game’s outcome.
It’s not just about stats – it’s about understanding the full picture. Betting based on data rather than gut feelings has been a game-changer for me.
Limit your markets
While it’s tempting to explore all the sports and leagues available, I’ve found it’s better to focus on just one or two sports. By specializing, I’ve been able to dig deeper into stats, player performance, and trends, which has made predicting outcomes a lot easier.
For California bettors, sports such as NBA basketball, NFL football, or even local MLB or MLS games are great options. There’s so much information readily available, which makes it easier to make well-informed bets.
Understand the different types of bets
When I first started betting, I realized how important it was to understand the different types of bets. From moneyline bets and point spreads to player props and parlays, each type comes with its own level of risk and potential payout.
During my time here I’ve noticed that point spreads are especially popular in California for sports like basketball and football, and I’ve found them great for straightforward bets.
But when I’m looking to mix things up, player props and in-play bets offer more nuanced strategies – if you’re willing to dig into the details.
Manage your bankroll
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that bankroll management is key. I always set aside a specific amount each month for wagering, and I stick to betting 1-2% of that bankroll per wager.
It’s tempting to go all in when you’re feeling lucky, but this approach keeps things steady – especially when luck just isn’t on my side.
Take advantage of bonuses
I always make sure to look out for sign up bonuses and promotions when joining a new sportsbook. They’re a great way to stretch my bankroll and get more bets in without spending extra cash.
That said, I’ve learned to always read the fine print – some bonuses have steep rollover requirements or restrict which bets you can place, which can make it harder to actually cash out.
“The number-one mistake bettors make is betting based on loyalty. No matter how much you might love your team, the stats never lie.”
California sports betting sites – FAQs
Is online sports betting safe in California?
Yes, online sports betting sites in California are absolutely safe, so long as you stick with safe, reputable platforms like the ones I’ve outlined in this article.
What is the easiest sports bet to win at California sportsbooks?
The simplest bet to win is generally the moneyline bet, where you’re simply choosing which team or player will win a game.
Moneyline bets avoid the complexities of spread bets or specific scoring margins, making them a great choice for beginner California bettors. Just keep in mind that betting on favorites may offer smaller payouts, while underdog picks tend to yield higher returns but come with more risk.
What is the best online betting site in California?
The best California betting site depends heavily on what you’re looking for. However, after hours of testing and comparing sportsbooks to each other, BetWhale was my favorite due to its wide range of markets, competitive odds, and generous bonuses.
Can you win real money betting at California sportsbooks?
Yes, California online sports betting gives you the chance to win real money, assuming you’re clever (and lucky) enough to place winning wagers.
However, betting is inherently risky, and outcomes are never guaranteed. Always remember to bet responsibly and manage your bankroll wisely.
What kind of bonuses are available at California sports betting sites?
The sports betting industry is brimming with different bonuses, ranging from welcome bonuses, which offer a generous amount of bonus cash with a player’s first deposit, to reload bonuses for returning bettors, as well as free bets and cashback offers on losses.
Additionally, many sites now offer exclusive bonuses for cryptocurrency deposits, providing extra value for bettors who use Bitcoin or other digital currencies.
Are you ready to explore the California sports betting market?
Now that I’ve shared my thoughts on some of the top online betting sites in California, it’s your turn to pick the one that suits you best.
Every site I’ve mentioned here is safe and secure and offers competitive odds on a variety of sports, so I’m confident you’ll have a great experience whichever you go with.
That said, I’ve learned that betting is best when it’s all about fun. So, as you explore and place your wagers, remember to keep it light, enjoy the process, and always bet responsibly.
Good luck and have fun!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Gambling comes with its fair share of risks, and it’s important to recognize that when using online gambling sites.
All gambling sites on this page are 21+ only. Check your local laws to ensure that online gambling is legal in your jurisdiction.
If you have a gambling addiction problem or anyone you know does, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. In addition, the following free gambling addiction resources can be of help:
