Best California Sports Betting Apps & CA Sportsbooks (2026)
Updated: January 2026 • 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 .
Californians may choose to explore the option of international offshore sportsbooks. Check the BMR Risk, License Assessment Report for International Online Sportsbooks.
Top 5 Best Offshore Sportsbooks for US Players in 2026
- BetOnline – Opinionated lines and a low bonus rollover
- Bovada – The Best Bonus Sportsbook (only available in 26 states)
- Heritage Sports – Excellent for live betting and -108 style lines
- BetAnything – Reduced juice offerings at -105
- BookMaker – Comprehensive loyalty program and large limits
Quick Jump: Bonuses | How to Bet | Crypto | Apps Comparison | Legislation
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 …
Legendary Professional Gambler
Top 5 Best California Sportsbooks & Sports Betting Apps (2026)
BetOnline
Signup Bonus:
FREE BETS
$250 w/ $500 Deposit
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. | BetOnline customers posting forum
- Opinionated lines on major sports
- Broad range of bonus offers
- Faster than most sportsbook apps
Bovada
Signup Bonus:
DEPOSIT BONUS
75% Crypto
Max Bonus: $750 | Rollover: 5x (bet balance 5 times prior to withdraw)
DEPOSIT BONUS
50% Credit Card
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. | Bovada customers posting forum
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- Unique props on sports and entertainment markets
- Mobile site performs as well as apps
Heritage Sports
Signup Bonus:
OFFER
100% Free Play
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. | Heritage Sports customers posting forum
- Competitive bonuses and perks
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Quarterly cash back for 149+ sports bets
BetAnything
Signup Bonus:
BONUS
150% Free Play
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. | BetAnything customers posting forum
- Best reduced juice sports lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Works like the best sports betting apps
BookMaker
Signup Bonus:
DEPOSIT BONUS
20% Crypto
Max Bonus: $500 | Rollover: 8x (bet balance 8 times prior to withdraw)
CREDIT CARD DEPOSIT BONUS
100% Free Bet
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. | BookMaker customers posting forum
- High betting limits
- Renowned sports betting loyalty program
- Competes with the best sportsbook apps
California Sports Betting Bonuses (Verified Jan 2026)
These offshore sports betting apps offer real-money California welcome bonuses that work on mobile and support payouts in crypto or standard currency.
BetOnline – Best for Bigger Bonus Offers
- Offer: 50% bonus up to $250
- Promo Code: FREE250
- Min Deposit: $55
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin or USDT
Bovada – Best Choice for Crypto Bettors
- Offer: 75% up to $750 (Crypto only)
- Promo Code: BTCSWB750
- Min Deposit: $20 in Bitcoin
- Rollover: 5x (sports)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash
BetAnything – Best for Reduced Juice
- Offer: 150% bonus up to $750
- Promo Code: BMR150
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 10x (with minimum odds of -140)
- Best Payment : Credit card or bitcoin
Heritage Sports – Competitive Free Play
- Offer: 100% Free Bet up to $500
- Promo Code: BMR100
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: Credit or debit card
BookMaker – Fast Signup and Bitcoin Perks
- Offer: 100% Free Bet up to $400
- Promo Code: GET100
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 1x (sports)
- Best Payment: Credit or debit card
Weekly Bonus Promotions Available
- BetOnline: Ongoing 25% reload with code LIFEBONUS
- Bovada: Weekly contests, mobile-only boosts, and free bets
- BetAnything: Rebates and rotating odds boosts
Bonus Tip: What to Watch For
- Crypto-based bonuses usually come with lower rollover hurdles, but they require BTC, ETH, or USDT for activation.
- Most wagering requirements fall in the 4x to 10x range. Make sure to double-check before you opt in.
How to Bet on Sports in California (Step-by-Step)
California still doesn’t have state-regulated online sportsbooks, so most Californians who want to bet use international (offshore) sportsbook sites that accept CA players. The key is choosing a book with a long track record, clear rules, and reliable payouts—especially if you plan to use crypto.
Want the full walkthrough?
Read the complete guide:
How to Bet on Sports in California (Step-by-Step)
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1 Choose a California-friendly sportsbookCompare odds pricing (standard -110 vs reduced juice), market depth (props, alt lines, live betting), bonuses, and payout reputation.
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2 Create your account (and verify if required)Signup usually takes a few minutes. Some sites require KYC (identity verification), especially before withdrawals.
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3 Decide if you want a bonusWelcome promos can help—but always check rollover, minimum odds, and expiration rules before opting in.
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4 Deposit (crypto is often fastest)Most sites accept debit/credit, bank options, and crypto like BTC/ETH/LTC/USDT. Crypto is popular for speed and fewer banking headaches.
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5 Place your first betStart with a simple market (moneyline, spread, total) before you graduate to props, same-game parlays, and live betting.
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6 Withdraw smartBest practice: make a small deposit, place a few bets, then test a withdrawal early so you know the process and timing.
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 from California sportsbooks Bovada and BetOnline. Payouts from these betting apps hit my wallet in under 4 hours — no delays, no middlemen.
Live Bitcoin Data (2026 Update)
| App | Crypto Accepted | Avg Payout Speed | Mobile Wallet Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | BTC, ETH, USDT | Under 2 hours | Full QR + Wallet |
| Bovada | BTC, BCH, LTC | 1-2 hours | Seamless mobile payouts |
| Heritage Sports | BTC, ETH, LTC | 1-2 days | Full QR + Wallet |
| BetAnything | BTC, ETH, LTC | 1-2 days | Basic integration |
| BookMaker | BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH | 1-2 days | Basic integration |
Why California Bettors Should Choose Crypto
- Speed: Get winnings in hours from CA betting apps.
- Privacy: Extra anonymity compared to banks.
- Control: Direct wallet-to-wallet transfers.
The Golden State of California — shining bright since 1850.
CA Sports Betting Apps Comparison
California does not currently offer state-regulated sportsbook apps. Instead, most Californians
who bet on sports use international sportsbook apps that work through mobile browsers and
accept CA players without a VPN.
Want the full breakdown?
See the complete guide: CA Sports Betting Apps Comparison (Full Review & Testing)
Below is a quick comparison of the most reliable California-accessible betting apps, tested for
speed, stability, payouts, and mobile usability.
California Sports Betting Apps (Quick Comparison)
| App | Best For | Welcome Bonus | Payout Speed | Mobile UX (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | Fast crypto payouts | $250 Welcome Bonus | Under 24 hours | 4.5/5 |
| Bovada | Live betting | $750 Bitcoin Bonus | 1-2 hours | 4.5/5 |
| Everygame | Casual bettors | $500 Sign-up Bonus | 1-2 days | 4/5 |
| SportsBetting.ag | Sharp-friendly | 100% Free Play | Under 24 hours | 4/5 |
| Bookmaker.eu | High-limit action | 25% Cash Bonus | 24-48 hours | 3.5/5 |
*Withdrawal speeds reflect crypto payouts (BTC / USDT) where available.
- All apps function via mobile browser (no native App Store listings in CA)
- No VPN required
- Bonus terms vary by sportsbook
- Each app was tested on iOS and Android devices in California
Quick takeaway
If you want speed and simplicity, BetOnline and Bovada consistently delivered the smoothest
mobile experience in California testing.
Is Sports Betting Legal in California?
California’s next realistic opportunity to legalize sports betting apps 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: January 2026
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 CA sports betting apps — especially tribal gaming coalitions and national sportsbook operators — along with the historical failure of Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 in November 2022.
What These Projections Are Based On
- Official tribal statements from groups including the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA)
- Recent sports betting apps 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)
Why California's Path to Legal Sports Betting Is So Challenging
California is uniquely complicated because:
- Tribal Sovereignty Controls Gambling Expansion
Tribal nations see online sports betting as a threat to exclusivity and to brick-and-mortar casino revenue.
- 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.
- Voters Overwhelmingly Rejected Prop 26 & Prop 27
Both measures failed by historic margins, signaling widespread public mistrust of online betting messaging.
- No Unifying Proposal Exists for 2026
As of January 2026, 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 CA sportsbook 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.
✅ 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.
California Sports Betting News
California Set to Welcome Vegas-Sized Tribal Casino
California Gov Signs Sweeping Sweepstakes Gambling Ban
Explore Sportsbook Reviews in States Bordering California
FAQs: California Betting Apps & Sportsbooks
Is it legal to bet on sports online in California?
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.
Which betting platforms actually work in California?
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.
Do I need a VPN to sign up?
No VPN or location-masking tools are needed. These leading offshore sportsbooks welcome California players and work seamlessly in standard web browsers.
Which apps are the best for crypto?
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.
Are there any California-based sportsbook apps?
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.
Can I bet from my phone?
Absolutely! These offshore sites are fully optimized for mobile betting, so you can place wagers right from your smartphone browser—no app download needed.
Do sportsbooks for California offer bonuses?
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.
How old do I need to be to bet on sports in California?
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.
Do California sports betting sites accept credit cards?
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.
Is it safe to use offshore sports betting platforms in California?
Respected offshore sportsbooks with a strong history and regulatory credentials—like BetOnline and Heritage Sports—are considered safe for California bettors.
Are there deposit or withdrawal fees?
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.
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"
- BA in English Literature
- MA in Creative Writing
- Postgraduate journalism qualifications