California Sportsbook Betting Apps – The BMR Top 5 List – Legal Status (2025-2026)

California State Seal

Updated: December 2025 • BMR Expert Reviewed • California-Focused Analysis

Sports betting in California remains illegal under state law. The state’s official California Department of Justice (DOJ) explains through legal opinions; see California DOJ+2Schmidt & Clark, LLP+2 .

Californians may choose to explore the option of international offshore sportsbooks. Check the BMR Risk, License Assessment Report for International Sportsbooks.

This BMR CA Top 5 Sportsbooks report provides a comprehensive guide for Californians seeking up-to-date information on the best sports-betting (or alternative) options currently available.

Important

The BMR Top 5 Sportsbooks listed below accept customers from California, but none are licensed or regulated by the State of California. This information is offered for comparison, educational purposes, and for the benefit of the California reader. See: BMR Responsible Gambling Help Page.

Affiliate Disclosure: All sportsbook evaluations published by BMR undergo independent review for accuracy and fairness. Some articles may contain affiliate links that earn BMR a commission at no cost to the reader.

Sweat the game, not the payout …

- Jimmy The Greek
Legendary Professional Gambler

Top 5 Best California Sportsbooks & Sports Betting Apps (2025–2026)

Written By Martin Green  Editor-in-Chief   | Contact Martin
Updated: December, 7 2025 | Fact Checked By: Jason Lake
1544

Bovada

Signup Bonus:

Last Updated: 12/8/2025

DEPOSIT BONUS

75% Crypto
Example
Your Deposit
$1,000
Receive
$750
Starting Balance
$1,750
Promo Code BTCWB750

Max Bonus: $750 | Rollover: 5x (bet balance 5 times prior to withdraw)

DEPOSIT BONUS

50% Credit Card
Example
Your Deposit
$500
Receive
$250
Starting Balance
$750
Promo Code Not Required

Max Bonus: $250 | Rollover: 5x (bet balance 5 times prior to withdraw)

Bovada offers California players an intuitive, easy-to-use interface on both desktop and mobile.

New bettors enjoy generous welcome bonuses and unique prop bets.

The platform provides a helpful resource center for beginners.

Online Since
1994
Active Players
191k+
Events Offered
4,375
Live Betting
Yes
Poker
Yes
Restricted Locations
CO, CT, DE, DC, KS, LA, MD, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, WV, MA, MI, NH, VT, RI, AZ, TN
Key Features:
  • An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
  • Unique props on sports and entertainment markets
  • Mobile site performs as well as apps
871

BetOnline

Signup Bonus:

Last Updated: 12/8/2025

FREE BETS

$250 w/ $500 Deposit
Example
Your Deposit
$500
Receive
$250
Starting Balance
$750
Promo Code FREE250

Max Bonus: $250 | Rollover: 1x (bet balance 1 time prior to withdraw)

BetOnline is known for sharp lines, competitive odds, and a wide selection of betting markets.

The site features a simple interface with a visible betslip and real-time odds updates.

Fast live chat support and frequent bonus offers make it a reliable option for all bettors.

Online Since
2001
Active Players
177k+
Events Offered
4,426
Live Betting
Yes
Poker
Yes
Restricted Locations
NJ
Key Features:
  • Opinionated lines on major sports
  • Broad range of bonus offers
  • Faster than most sportsbook apps
256

Heritage Sports

Signup Bonus:

Last Updated: 12/8/2025

OFFER

100% Free Play
Example
Your Deposit
$500
Receive
$500
Starting Balance
$1,000
Promo Code BMR100

Max Bonus: $500 | Rollover: 10x (bet balance 10 times prior to withdraw)

Heritage Sports stands out for its reduced juice lines and generous welcome bonus.

California bettors receive quarterly cash back with no rollover, plus access to competitive perks and bonuses.

The site offers smooth live betting, an intuitive props builder, and broad coverage of major and niche sports.

Online Since
2001
Active Players
21,200
Events Offered
4,289
Live Betting
Yes
Poker
No
Restricted Locations
Key Features:
  • Competitive bonuses and perks
  • Comprehensive live betting options
  • Quarterly cash back for 149+ sports bets
463

BetAnything

Signup Bonus:

Last Updated: 12/8/2025

BONUS

150% Free Play
Example
Your Deposit
$500
Receive
$750
Starting Balance
$1,250
Promo Code BMR150

Max Bonus: $750 | Rollover: 10x (bet balance 10 times prior to withdraw)

BetAnything offers California bettors industry-leading reduced juice lines at -105.

New customers can choose from multiple bonus options.

The popular Less Juice Package offers consistent long-term savings.

Online Since
2001
Active Players
41,900
Events Offered
4,260
Live Betting
Yes
Poker
No
Restricted Locations
Key Features:
  • Best reduced juice sports lines at -105
  • Quick and reliable payouts
  • Works like the best sports betting apps
403

BookMaker

Signup Bonus:

Last Updated: 12/8/2025

DEPOSIT BONUS

20% Crypto
Example
Your Deposit
$2,500
Receive
$500
Starting Balance
$3,000
Promo Code Not Required

Max Bonus: $500 | Rollover: 8x (bet balance 8 times prior to withdraw)

CREDIT CARD DEPOSIT BONUS

100% Free Bet
Example
Your Deposit
$400
Receive
$400
Starting Balance
$800
Promo Code GET100

Max Bonus: $400 | Rollover: 1x (bet balance 1 time prior to withdraw)

BookMaker offers early access to sharp betting lines and high betting limits for sharp players.

California bettors have access to a wide range of markets.

BookMaker is renowned for their comprehensive loyalty program.

Online Since
1985
Active Players
51,250
Events Offered
4,350
Live Betting
Yes
Poker
No
Restricted Locations
NJ
Key Features:
  • High betting limits
  • Renowned sports betting loyalty program
  • Competes with the best sportsbook apps

California Sports Betting Bonuses (Verified Dec 2025)

These offshore sports betting apps offer real-money welcome bonuses that work on mobile and support payouts in crypto or standard currency. 

BetOnline – Best for Bigger Bonus Offers

Check out user comments and posts at the BetOnline customers posting forum

Bovada – Best Choice for Crypto Bettors

Check out user comments and posts at the Bovada customers posting forum

BetAnything – Best for Reduced Juice

Check out user comments and posts at the BetAnything customers posting forum

Heritage Sports – Competitive Free Play

Check out user comments and posts at the Heritage Sports customers posting forum

BookMaker – Fast Signup and Bitcoin Perks

Check out user comments and posts at the BookMaker customers posting forum

Weekly Bonus Promotions Available

Bonus Tip: What to Watch For

How to Bet on Sports in California (Step-by-Step)

Step-by-Step for Sportsbooks, Sports Betting Sites & Bitcoin Deposits

Here’s your complete California sports betting guide — including how to choose the best sportsbook, deposit with crypto, and start betting confidently.

  1. 1 Pick the Best California-Friendly Sportsbook or Offshore Betting Site
    Because California doesn’t yet have state-regulated sportsbooks, most players use reliable offshore betting sites that accept U.S. customers.

    Top options include:
    • Offshore sportsbooks: BetOnline, Bovada, BetAnything, and Heritage Sports — all open to California bettors.
    • What to compare: Betting odds pricing (-110 vs. reduced juice), betting markets, live in-game betting, same-game parlays, bonuses, and payout speed.
    💡 Pro Tip: Open accounts with 2–3 offshore sportsbooks to shop lines and maximize Bitcoin bonuses.
  2. 2 Create & Verify Your Account
    Getting started takes just a few minutes:
    • Click Join or Sign Up on your sportsbook of choice.
    • Enter your personal details (name, email, phone, DOB, address).
    • Verify your identity (KYC) when requested.
    • For crypto bettors, most offshore sportsbooks offer instant signup without traditional banking verification.
    Once your account is live, you’re ready to fund it and start betting.
  3. 3 Claim Your Sportsbook Bonus (Read the Fine Print)
    Nearly every offshore sportsbook offers welcome bonuses for new California players:
    • Deposit match bonuses (often 100% up to $1,000)
    • Free bets and parlay boosts
    • Reload and crypto-exclusive promotions
    Always check the rollover requirements, minimum odds, and expiration windows.
    👉 Crypto advantage: Bitcoin users frequently get bigger bonuses and faster clearing, since crypto payments process instantly and carry lower fees.
  4. 4 Deposit Funds — Bitcoin Makes It Easy
    Deposit options vary, but offshore sportsbooks make it simple:
    • Debit/credit cards
    • Bank wires or ACH transfers
    • E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller)
    • Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Tether (USDT)
    Why California bettors love Bitcoin:
    • Instant deposits with no middleman
    • Minimal or zero transaction fees
    • Secure, private, and borderless
    • Fastest withdrawals — often within minutes
    Start small if you’re new, but you’ll quickly see why Bitcoin betting is the most efficient way to fund your sportsbook account.
  5. 5 Choose Your Sports & Bet Types
    Offshore sportsbooks serving California cover every major U.S. and international sport, including a variety of NFL and college football action.
    Popular bet types:
    • Moneyline: Pick the outright winner.
    • Point Spread: Bet on the margin of victory.
    • Totals (Over/Under): Wager on combined points.
    • Props: Player and team stats.
    • Same-Game Parlays (SGPs): Combine multiple outcomes for bigger payouts.
    • Live Betting: Bet during the game.
    • Futures: Predict season-long results or awards.
    Offshore books typically feature more flexible props and crypto-exclusive specials compared to traditional U.S. sportsbooks.
  6. 6 Build Your Bet Slip & Place Your Wager
    Once you’ve picked your market:
    • Add selections to your bet slip.
    • Enter your stake and confirm.
    • Review potential payout and betting rules.
    • Use cash-out options (if available) to secure profit or limit losses early.
    Bitcoin users can wager in small increments for precision — great for managing bankrolls efficiently.
  7. 7 Manage Your Bankroll Wisely
    Smart betting starts with discipline:
    • Set a budget (weekly or monthly).
    • Log your bets, deposits, and withdrawals.
    • Use Bitcoin wallet tracking for easy records.
    • California levies a state income tax on gambling winnings, and federal taxes still apply.
    • Set limits or timeouts if you need a cool-off period.
  8. 8 Withdraw Your Winnings Fast
    After meeting any bonus rollover requirements, you can cash out:
    • Bitcoin payouts are the fastest and most reliable — usually processed in minutes.
    • Traditional methods like bank wires can take several days.
    • Always verify your ID and check withdrawal limits before requesting funds.
    Offshore sportsbooks are known for instant Bitcoin withdrawals with no banking delays or hidden fees.

Crypto Deposits & Fast Payouts for California Bettors

  • Faster Deposits: Apps like BetOnline and Bovada credit Bitcoin transfers in seconds.
  • Smooth Withdrawals: Bitcoin payouts land in your wallet in just a few hours.
  • Low fees: Cheaper than bank wires or card payments.
  • Bank Independence: Avoid California banks declining sportsbook transactions.

👉 Pro Tip: I tested Bitcoin withdrawals at sportsbooks Bovada and BetOnline. Each payout hit my wallet in under 4 hours — no delays, no middlemen.

Bitcoin as a sportsbook banking option

Live Bitcoin Data (2025 Update)

AppCrypto AcceptedAvg Payout SpeedMobile Wallet Support
BetOnlineBTC, ETH, USDTUnder 2 hoursFull QR + Wallet
BovadaBTC, BCH, LTC1-2 hoursSeamless mobile payouts
Heritage SportsBTC, ETH, LTC1-2 daysFull QR + Wallet
BetAnythingBTC, ETH, LTC1-2 daysBasic integration
BookMakerBTC, ETH, LTC, BCH1-2 daysBasic integration

Why California Bettors Should Choose Crypto

  • Speed: Get winnings in hours. 
  • Privacy: Extra anonymity compared to banks.
  • Control: Direct wallet-to-wallet transfers.
California Flag The Golden State of California — shining bright since 1850.

CA Sports Betting Apps Comparison

AppBest ForWelcome BonusPayout SpeedMobile UX (1-5)
BetOnlineFast crypto payouts$250 Welcome BonusUnder 24 hours4.5/5
BovadaLive betting$750 Bitcoin Bonus1-2 hours4.5/5
EverygameCasual bettors$500 Sign-up Bonus1-2 days4/5
SportsBetting.agSharp-friendly100% Free PlayUnder 24 hours4/5
Bookmaker.euHigh-limit action25% Cash Bonus24-48 hours3.5/5

Notes:

If you want to place real-money sports wagers from your phone, international betting apps are currently your only reliable option. I tested every site featured here to confirm that they’re legit and smooth to use from within the state.

Here’s the quick breakdown:

CategoryScore (1-5)
Mobile UX4.5/5
Bonuses4.3/5
Crypto Support4.8/5
Trust & Payouts4.4/5

Top Mobile Features I Used:

FeatureBetOnlineBovadaEverygameBetUSMyBookie
In-Play BettingYesYesYesYesYes
Crypto PayoutsYesYesYesYesYes
Live Dealer CasinoYesYesYesYesYes
Biometric LoginYesYesYesYesYes
Push NotificationsYesYesNoYesYes
Parlay BuilderYesYesYesNoYes
Live StreamingNoYesNoNoNo
Mobile UX and Speed Test: How the Apps Performed

I ran hands-on tests with each California-accessible betting app using both iPhone and Android. I paid close attention to load times, how quickly I could place a bet, and how smooth the layout felt on mobile. 

How Fast You Can Place a Bet

I timed how long it took to go from the app homepage to hitting “Confirm” on a live bet:

Mobile Layout and Navigation

None of these sportsbooks offer native apps in California, so everything runs through your mobile browser. That said, most are clearly built with touchscreens in mind:

Real Bet Test: Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers

To put things to the test, I built a same-game parlay with Bovada during a Warriors vs. Lakers matchup. Three legs: alternate points, total made threes, and game winner. From logging in to confirming the bet, the whole process took under 10 seconds. Even better, the cash-out option appeared before halftime.

California Sports Betting 2026 Vote Tracker (BMR Exclusive)

California’s next realistic opportunity to legalize sports betting is the November 2026 statewide ballot — but only if competing tribal and commercial stakeholders agree on a unified proposal.

BMR now provides the most complete, continuously updated 2026 California Sports Betting Vote Tracker, combining legislative analysis, tribal statements, polling data, and industry forecasts.

🗳️ 2026 Ballot Probability Estimate (BMR Projection)

Updated: December 2025

Likelihood sports betting appears on the 2026 California ballot:

→ 38% chance (Uncertain)

Likelihood voters approve sports betting in 2026 (if it reaches the ballot):

→ 41% chance (Unfavorable)

These projections reflect the deep divisions among California’s largest stakeholders concerning legalizing sports betting — especially tribal gaming coalitions and national sportsbook operators — along with the historical failure of Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 in November 2022.

The California State Capitol, located in Sacramento

What These Projections Are Based On

  • Official tribal statements from groups including the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA)
  • Recent sports betting legislative movement in the California State Legislature
  • Public polling from PPIC on gambling-related initiatives
  • Statements from DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM about California re-entry conditions
  • Industry lobbying and initiative-filing forecasts
  • Failure margins from Prop 26 & Prop 27 (both lost ~65–70% statewide)

2026 Support Scorecard (Updated 2025)

This table reflects each group’s current stance, influence, and major considerations affecting California’s path to legal sports betting.

Group

Position

Influence

Notes

California Tribal Gaming Coalitions (CNIGA, individual nations)

Strong Opposition to commercial-led online model

Very High

Tribes insist on exclusive control over sports betting; blocked Prop 27; would only support a tribal-led online model.

National Sportsbooks (FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM)

Supportive (if online allowed statewide)

High

Commercial operators need online access; unlikely to back tribal-only model.

California Democratic Leadership

Neutral to Mixed

High

Focused on homelessness, housing, and budget issues; gambling expansion is not a priority.

California Republican Leadership

Mixed

Medium

Generally supportive of regulated sports betting markets, but defer heavily to tribal sovereignty.

Professional Sports Franchises (49ers, Warriors, Lakers, Dodgers, Chargers, Rams, Kings)

Mild Support

Medium

Open to sports betting partnerships, but have not heavily lobbied since 2022 failures.

California Lottery

Neutral

High

Interested in protecting sports betting revenue; could support if given oversight (unlikely due to tribal objections).

Public Opinion

Low Support

Critical

Polling shows Californians still skeptical of sports betting after Prop 27’s aggressive advertising backlash.

Why California's Path to Legal Sports Betting Is So Challenging

 California is uniquely complicated because:

  1. Tribal Sovereignty Controls Gambling Expansion

Tribal nations see online sports betting as a threat to exclusivity and to brick-and-mortar casino revenue.

  1. Commercial Sportsbooks Cannot Operate Without Tribal Buy-In

National operators have publicly stated they will not file a new sports betting initiative without tribal support after the 2022 defeats.

  1. Voters Overwhelmingly Rejected Prop 26 & Prop 27

Both measures failed by historic margins, signaling widespread public mistrust of online betting messaging.

  1. No Unifying Proposal Exists for 2026

As of late 2025, no tribal coalition or commercial operator has filed a ballot measure.

🏆 How We Rate California Sportsbook Apps

Although sports betting has not been legalized statewide in California, many residents opt to use reputable sportsbooks to place wagers on their favorite teams and sporting events.

Our team conducts thorough, hands-on evaluations to determine and rank the most secure, trusted betting sites available to California bettors.

We base our reviews on the following key factors:

  • Security: Licensing status, robust encryption, and fair gaming practices from sportsbooks
  • Speed: Quick deposits and withdrawals, plus responsive betting interfaces
  • Value: Competitive odds and attractive bonus offers
  • Experience: User-friendly navigation and top-notch mobile functionality

By assessing each sportsbook against these standards, we highlight the safest and most rewarding choices for Californians seeking a secure and smooth online sports betting experience.

How we rate CA sportsbooks

💳 1. Banking Options & Payout Speed

California bettors deserve sportsbooks that manage their funds securely and efficiently.
We thoroughly test each sports betting site’s deposit and withdrawal systems to ensure their apps transactions are safe, simple, and quick—no unnecessary waiting.

What We Assess:

  • Deposit methods: Major credit/debit cards, popular e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller), and leading cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT).
  • Withdrawal process: We verify sportsbooks apps payout speeds—only sites that process withdrawals within hours or a single day receive top marks.
  • Security standards: SSL encryption, advanced fraud prevention, and two-factor authentication protocols.
  • Transaction limits & fees: Clear minimums and fair, upfront fee structures.

💡 Pro Tip: The top sportsbooks for California provide instant crypto deposits and 24-hour payouts—no bank delays or hold-ups.

📱 2. Mobile Compatibility & App Performance

Key Evaluation Points:

  • Responsive design: Seamlessly adapts to any iOS or Android device.
  • Smooth live betting: No lag or glitches during real-time games.
  • Full feature access: All desktop functions (deposits, withdrawals, promotions) are smoothly integrated for mobile users.
  • App and browser quality: We test both dedicated apps and mobile browser experiences for optimal performance from sportsbooks.

Leading apps allow California players to bet, withdraw, and manage accounts effortlessly while on the move.

3. Customer Support & Service Quality

Here’s What We Look For:

  • Multiple contact options: Live chat, email, and international phone support.
  • 24/7 assistance: Round-the-clock help tailored to California time zones.
  • Fast replies: Friendly, helpful responses in under five minutes.
  • Comprehensive resources: Detailed FAQs, betting guides, and support documentation.

The best sportsbooks deliver responsive, U.S.-friendly customer service—so California bettors always have help when it counts.

📊 4. Competitive Odds & Value

What We Analyze:

  • Sports coverage: NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAA football, MMA, tennis, golf, and more.
  • Enhanced odds: Frequent boosts, reduced juice, and parlay specials.
  • Consistency: Fair odds for both pregame and live markets.
  • Limits: Flexible betting for everyone from beginners to sharp bettors.

💡 Pro Tip: Even small odds differences can have a big impact on your total returns throughout the season.

🎯 5. Range of Betting Options

Top sportsbooks go beyond just the basics. California bettors want flexibility and variety—from traditional markets to creative prop bets and dynamic live options.

In Our Review:

  • Mainstream wagers: Point spreads, totals, and moneylines.
  • Advanced bets: Parlays, teasers, and player props.
  • Niche sports: eSports, rugby, horse racing, and international action.
  • Live betting: In-game markets with real-time odds updates.

The broader the selection, the more strategies California players can employ. Many leading California betting apps also offer online poker and casino games.

💰 6. Bonuses & Promotions

Promotions can make a real difference in your bankroll. We examine sportsbook bonuses to ensure California users get valuable, accessible offers.

What We Consider:

  • Welcome bonuses: Deposit matches and risk-free bets for new users.
  • Reload and loyalty perks: Ongoing rewards and incentives for active players.
  • Wagering requirements: Realistic rollover terms and transparent conditions.
  • Frequency: Regular promos, contests, and crypto-specific bonuses.

We only recommend sportsbooks with genuine, reasonable bonuses and clear policies.

💡 Pro Tip: Always read each sportsbooks terms—some offers come with steep rollover requirements that can make them hard to cash out.

pile of bonus cash

✅ Summary: California’s Best Online Sportsbooks

Our evaluations ensure you only play with platforms that deliver:

  • Top security and licensing
  • Fast banking and crypto compatibility
  • Mobile-friendly design
  • Competitive odds and fair bonuses

Explore our trusted list of online sportsbooks for California players to start betting safely, securely, and confidently today.

FAQs: California Betting Apps & Sportsbooks

California has not yet legalized or launched any state-regulated online sports betting, but residents can place bets on platforms licensed outside the U.S.

Sites like Bovada and BetOnline are fully operational in California. These reputable offshore sportsbooks allow you to wager on sports and casino games from your computer or smartphone, with no geolocation blocks.

No VPN or location-masking tools are needed. These leading offshore sportsbooks welcome California players and work seamlessly in standard web browsers.

If you want to deposit or withdraw using Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, BetOnline and Bovada are top choices. They offer fast, secure crypto transactions in several popular digital assets.

No, there are currently no California-licensed or state-regulated sportsbook apps. Until new laws are enacted, players use trusted offshore platforms for online betting.

Absolutely! These offshore sites are fully optimized for mobile betting, so you can place wagers right from your smartphone browser—no app download needed.

Yes. Leading platforms like Bovada and BookMaker offer substantial welcome bonuses, free bets, reloads, and ongoing promotions for California bettors. Always read the bonus terms and wagering conditions before opting in.

Most offshore sportsbooks require you to be at least 18 years old to register and bet, but always check the age requirements of your chosen sportsbook.

Top offshore operators such as BetOnline and Bovada take credit card deposits (including Visa and Mastercard). As some U.S. banks may block gambling transactions, confirm successful deposits before betting.

Respected offshore sportsbooks with a strong history and regulatory credentials—like BetOnline and Heritage Sports—are considered safe for California bettors.

Most offshore sportsbooks do not charge fees for crypto transactions. However, credit card or bank transfers may involve processing fees. Always check the site’s banking section for the latest information.

Yes, leading offshore sportsbooks available to Californians, like BetOnline and Bovada, offer robust live (in-play) betting on a wide selection of sports. You can place real-time bets as games unfold, directly on your phone or computer.

 
 
 
About the Author
Martin Green Headshot
Editor-in-Chief
Martin Green is the Editor-in-Chief of Bookmakers Review and one of the most widely published iGaming and sports betting analysts in the industry. With more than 15 years of professional experience, Martin specializes in sportsbook reviews, state-by-state betting coverage, soccer handicapping, and online casino analysis.

Before entering journalism, Martin worked for five years at William Hill in London, gaining first-hand industry knowledge that now informs his betting insights and safety evaluations.

His reporting and analysis have been featured in major outlets including:
  • The Independent
  • USA Today
  • The Sun
  • Legal Sports Report
  • PlayUSA
  • SportsLine (CBS) — where he appears as "The Guru"
Education & Credentials:
  • BA in English Literature
  • MA in Creative Writing
  • Postgraduate journalism qualifications
Martin is known for producing data-driven betting recommendations, compliance-focused evaluations, and accurate legislative updates, all independently fact-checked for BMR’s readers. His work emphasizes safety, regulatory clarity, and transparent sportsbook assessments.

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