What sports betting apps are legal in California?
Until California establishes regulated sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings, California players can still enjoy sports betting apps located offshore. Always choose legal betting apps or sportsbooks with at least a 20-year track record.
Top Online California Sports Betting Apps
Whether you want to place bets on the Lakers or something more niche like water polo, the California sports betting scene makes it easy to find a platform. However, not every online sportsbook can be a home run.
Offshore sportsbooks offer a flexibility and bonus structure that we don’t see in any other U.S. sportsbooks, which is why our picks are preferred by many sports bettors in California. BetOnline is the clear winner for California sports betting, but other sportsbooks make our list based on their high sign-on bonuses, ease-of-use, and betting markets catered to California sports fans.
BetOnline
BetOnline is a popular online sports betting site in California because of its personalized approach to sports betting. The platform has a sleek betting interface, which makes it easy to navigate and place bets. If you are like many bettors and like to maximize your potential returns, BetOnline is known for competitive parlay and teaser payouts.
BetOnline’s “No Strings” Welcome Offer gives California players up to $250 to start betting. For players who bet regularly, BetOnline’s VIP program is one of the best. The more you bet, the more you win, and you get exclusive access to daily cash races, cash boosts, and more.
When our team tested the platform, we were impressed with its intuitive layout, betting features, and live betting. We were able to place bets with ease, and watched a live stream League of Legends match that helped us place informed bets in real time.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- Opinionated lines on major sports
- Broad range of bonus offers
- Faster than most sportsbook apps
Player Review:
BetAnything
BetAnySports is a favorite among California bettors, thanks to their 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.
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.
BetAnySports may be known for its promos, but one feature that really stood out to our team was its live betting. Every month BetAnySports hosts more than 30,000 live games, so there is always something to wager on.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- Best reduced juice sports lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Works like the best sports betting apps
Player Review:
Heritage Sports
Heritage Sports 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 with betting lines for NBA, MLB, futsal, rugby, volleyball, and more.
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. Heritage Sports’ Reduced Juice Cash Back Program lowers betting costs with -108 odds on sides and totals on popular sports like football and basketball.
When we tested Heritage Sports’ platform, we liked how the bet slip lists the exact amount of money you need to risk in order to win a specific amount. It calculates this for each game based on the current odds. This tool made it easy to determine how much money we wanted to bet.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- Competitive reduced juice odds at -108
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Quarterly cash back for 149+ sports bets
Player Review:
Bovada
Bovada is a solid choice for sports betting in California thanks to its long-standing reputation, mobile app, and stellar customer service. 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.
California players can bet on more than just sports. BetOnline offers everything from entertainment and politics, from major elections to hit TV shows. Bovada’s bonuses and rewards program make it even easier to win, and its user-friendly platform makes betting easy. For those seeking unique markets and a seamless mobile experience, Bovada is one of our top choices.
Bovada’s modern platform is clean and easy to navigate. While some sportsbooks list every betting market available, Bovada only lists the sports that are in season. This made the site feel a lot less overwhelming. When our team placed bets on the site, we encountered no issues.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- Unique props on sports and entertainment markets
- Mobile site performs as well as apps
Player Review:
MyBookie
MyBookie offers a hassle-free betting experience and a wide selection of betting markets, both with American sports and international events. The site has a modern look and works seamlessly for desktop and mobile sports betting.
This sportsbook is known for frequent bonuses, including reload offers and risk-free bets. With fast payouts and 24/7 customer support, MyBookie ensures a great experience for California users.
Our team appreciates that new bettors can claim a 50% Sports Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 to add extra funds right from the start. Established bettors can take advantage of a 25% Reload Bonus as a reward for coming back.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- Robust live betting platform
- Depth of sports markets
- Outperforms many traditional sportsbook apps
Player Review:
BookMaker
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.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- High betting limits
- Renowned sports betting loyalty program
- Competes with the best sportsbook apps
Player Review:
Everygame
Everygame offers a variety of betting markets, including sports, poker, and one of the best California online casinos, all on one user-friendly platform.
Everygame’s $1,000 Crypto Sign-Up Bonus gives new players extra value on their first cryptocurrency deposit. 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.
When we tested Everygame’s platform, our team liked how easy it was to find odds, place bets, and bet online. Everygame is a good choice for new bettors because it lists the hottest bets to make, as well as how much money you need to bet to win.
Signup Bonus:
Key Features:
- Variety of sports and casino promotions
- Excellent customer service department
- Smoother experience than most betting apps
Player Review:
How to Bet on Sports in California
-
1
Pick Your Sportsbook
Choose an offshore sportsbook available in your area, like the books listed above. Register by clicking “Join” and fill out the form with your name, email address, and phone number. -
2
Claim a Bonus
Select from available promotions for new bettors. Keep in mind that many mobile betting apps offer larger bonuses for bettors using crypto. -
3
Deposit Funds
Decide between depositing with credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto. Send and confirm your initial deposit. -
4
Place a Bet
Pick your sport and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then start wagering.
If you’re searching for the best California betting apps, you’re in the right place. I tested the top mobile sportsbooks available in California, including those that offer betting bonuses, fast crypto payouts, and legal mobile access from anywhere in the state.
Since FanDuel, DraftKings, and other regulated sportsbooks aren’t live here yet, this guide focuses on trusted offshore apps that California users can access right now.
Quick Take: Top 3 California Betting Apps (2025)
After hands-on testing on both iPhone and Android (I have an iPhone, but thanks to a friend, I experienced both), I narrowed it down to three standout apps that cater to the needs of California users in 2025.
These sportsbooks are fast, reliable, and most importantly, legal to use from anywhere in the Golden State. Whether you’re betting from the Bay Area or SoCal, these apps pay out in real money and don’t require any downloads or VPNs.
From lightning-quick Bitcoin withdrawals to razor-sharp odds, BetOnline proved to be the most consistent performer in my California testing. The mobile interface loads fast, props are robust, and I was able to place live bets mid-game in under 10 seconds.
Why it works well in CA: Crypto deposits are smooth, and you can start betting without the delays or declines common with U.S. cards or banks.
If you’re the type who likes to jump into a Lakers or 49ers game midstream, Bovada makes it easy. The live betting interface is clean and quick, and their bet slip auto-refreshes as odds shift. They also offer live streaming on select matchups, allowing you to sweat your bet as you watch.
Why Californians like it: Bovada nails the balance between features and simplicity. It’s particularly good for casual users who just want to get a bet in and enjoy the action.
Everygame isn’t the flashiest, but it’s one of the most accessible apps for first-time bettors. The interface is clean, bonuses are easy to understand, and mobile navigation is simple. It’s a solid choice if you’re just getting into sports betting or want to stick to smaller wagers.
Bonus: Great for placing same-game parlays on West Coast NBA or PAC-12 games.
Best California Betting Apps Compared
| App | Best For | Welcome Bonus | Payout Speed | Mobile UX (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | Fast crypto payouts | 50% up to $1,000 | Under 24 hours | 4.5/5 |
| Bovada | Live betting | $750 Bitcoin Bonus | 1-2 hours | 4.5/5 |
| Everygame | Casual bettors | $250 Welcome Bonus | 1-2 days | 4/5 |
| SportsBetting.ag | Sharp-friendly | 50% up to $1,000 | Under 24 hours | 4/5 |
| Bookmaker.eu | High-limit action | 25% Cash Bonus | 24-48 hours | 3.5/5 |
| MyBookie | Weekly promos | 50% up to $1,000 | 1-2 days | 4 |
| BetNow | Simplicity | 100% up to $500 | 24-48 hours | 3.5/5 |
How We Test Betting Apps
I’ve spent hundreds of hours testing sports betting apps to determine which are the best ones for players in California. Our one-of-a-kind rating system is built on hard data—not guesswork—delivering a clear, instant snapshot of trustworthiness, security, and support. Each grade reflects our team’s analysis and hands-on testing, giving you the insight you need to bet with confidence. Learn more about our methodology here.
- All apps were tested on both iOS and Android.
- Payout times are based on crypto (Bitcoin or USDT).
- Bonus terms vary slightly.
- Each of these apps operates legally offshore and is accessible from California with no VPN required.
Betting in California: The BMR PlayScore
As an unregulated state, California scored a 60 out of 100 on our proprietary PlayScore Scale. The BMR PlayScore algorithm grades each state on key factors that truly impact your betting experience, including:
- Tax friendliness
- Ease of betting
- Bonus availability
- Number of sportsbooks
- Payment speed
- Support quality
- Regulatory clarity
Welcome Bonuses on California Betting Apps
If you’re betting from California, you can still grab real-money bonuses using offshore sportsbook apps. These bonuses work on mobile, pay out in crypto or fiat, and I tested each one myself.
BetOnline – Best for Large Bonuses
Key features:
- Offer: 50% up to $1,000
- Promo Code: BOL1000
- Min Deposit: $55
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin or USDT
- Why I Like It: Fast crypto payouts and weekly reloads for mobile bettors.
Bovada – Best for Crypto Bettors
Key features:
- Offer: 75% up to $750 (Crypto-only)
- Promo Code: BTCSWB750
- Min Deposit: $20 (BTC)
- Rollover: 5x (sports)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash
- Why I Like It: Super fast Bitcoin payouts and great mobile UX.
Everygame – Best for Low Rollovers
Key features:
- Offer:100% up to $250
- Promo Code: WILLKOMMEN
- Min Deposit: $20
- Rollover: 8x (min odds -200)
- Best Payment: Litecoin or debit card
- Why I Like It: Simple bonus terms, great for casual players.
SportsBetting.ag – Same Platform as BetOnline
Key features:
- Offer:50% up to $1,000
- Promo Code: SB1000
- Min Deposit: $55
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: Crypto, MatchPay
- Why I Like It: Same backend as BetOnline, but occasionally offers different reload bonuses.
BetUS – Biggest Bonus Package
Key features:
- Offer: 125% up to $2,500 (100% sports + 25% casino)
- Promo Code: JOIN125
- Min Deposit: $100
- Rollover: 10x (sports), 30x (casino)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin
- Why I Like It: Huge bonus value, but better suited for larger bankrolls.
MyBookie – Fast Sign-Up + Bitcoin Boost
Key features:
- Offer: 50% up to $1,000
- Promo Code: BMR50
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: BTC or Visa
- Why I Like It: Quick mobile deposits and extra rewards for Bitcoin users.
Ongoing Promos You Can Claim Weekly
- BetOnline: 25% lifetime reload bonus with code LIFEBONUS
- Bovada: Free bets, contests, and mobile-exclusive odds boosts
- BetUS: Casino chip drops and free spins for mobile users
- MyBookie: Regular odds boosts and weekly rebate promos
Each app supports mobile-friendly deposits, and most let you claim these bonuses in under two minutes.
Ongoing Promos You Can Claim Weekly
- Crypto-only bonuses often have better rollover terms but must be claimed with BTC, ETH, or USDT.
- Rollover requirements typically range from 4x to 10x. For example, if it’s a 4x rollover on a $100 bonus, you need to rack up $400 in cumulative wagers. Make sure to always read the fine print before claiming.
How to Bet on Sports Using Apps in California
Even though California hasn’t legalized state-regulated sportsbooks, it’s still simple to place real-money bets from your phone using trusted offshore apps. Here’s how to get started:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Pick a trusted offshore betting app
I recommend starting with BetOnline, Bovada, or Everygame based on payout speed and betting bonuses. - Create your account
Signing up only takes a minute. No VPN is needed. Use your real email and select “United States” when prompted. - Make your first deposit
All the top apps accept crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT), credit/debit cards, or P2P options like MatchPay. - Claim your mobile bonus
Most apps automatically apply it at checkout, but some may require a promo code (which we’ll cover in the next section). - Place your first bet
Tap into the mobile browser app, browse the odds, and place your wager in seconds.
How to Bet on Sports Using Apps in California
The best California betting apps don’t just let you place a bet; they make the mobile experience fast, smooth, and built for all sports bettors, whether you’re a beginner or veteran. After testing each app on both iPhone and Android, here are the standout features I found useful.
Top Mobile Features I Used:
- In-Play Betting: Live odds are updated in real time, even during fast-moving games.
- Parlay Builders: Create custom parlays and teasers in seconds.
- Push Notifications: Get alerts for score changes, odds shifts, or bonus drops.
- Crypto Wallet Integration: Send and receive Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT directly from your mobile wallet.
- Live Streaming (Available on select apps): Watch events live without leaving the bet slip.
Mobile Feature Comparison
| History | A |
| Disputes | A |
| Payouts | A+ |
| Winners | A+ |
| Welcome Bonus | A+ |
| Ongoing Promos | A+ |
| Support | A |
| Terms | A- |
| Security | A |
| Overall score | A+ |
Not every app hits on all of these; for example, Bovada stood out with live streaming, while Everygame skipped on push alerts entirely.
If you care about quick betting and smooth navigation, BetOnline and Bovada had the best overall mobile user experience during my tests.
Why Crypto Works Well for California Betting App Users
I’ve tested dozens of offshore betting apps over the years, and when it comes to funding your account from California, nothing beats crypto. It’s fast, reliable, and mobile-friendly — three things that matter a lot when you’re betting from a state without local sportsbook apps.
Since these apps operate offshore, traditional payment methods like credit cards or bank transfers can be hit or miss. That’s why I always recommend using crypto if you have access to this type of payment.
I deposited Bitcoin on BetOnline and Bovada using my phone, and both apps instantly recognized the transaction. Withdrawals were just as smooth. BetOnline paid me in under 2 hours, and Bovada wasn’t far behind.
Most of these sportsbooks support major coins like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and USDT. You can connect your mobile wallet, scan a QR code, and fund your account without any hassle. No U.S. banking delays. No card declines. No back-and-forth with customer support.
If you’re betting on your phone and want the fastest way to deposit and cash out, crypto simply works best. It’s built for mobile, and it fits perfectly with the way these offshore apps are designed.
Crypto Support Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2011 (as Bovada.lv) |
| License | Curaçao |
| Payout Speed | Crypto in under 24 hours |
| Min Deposit | $10 with Bitcoin or Litecoin |
| Mobile Friendly | Yes (browser-based) |
| U.S. Bettors Allowed | Yes (except some states) |
Which Sports Can You Bet on With These CA Apps?
When I tested these California-friendly apps, I found complete coverage of every major U.S. sport, including an impressive amount of niche and international options. Whether you’re betting on NFL preseason or late-night tennis, the top apps make it easy to get in on the action from your phone.
Sports Covered
Here’s what you’ll typically find available on mobile:
- NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAAF
- Soccer (EPL, MLS, UCL, La Liga, Serie A)
- UFC, boxing, tennis, golf, NASCAR
- eSports like League of Legends, Dota 2, and CS:GO
Some apps go deeper with international leagues, prop bet builders, and parlay insurance promos, all available from your mobile browser.
California-Specific Coverage
Even though sports betting isn’t regulated locally in California, these apps still cater to the market. During my tests, I placed mobile bets on:
- Dodgers and Giants games (with inning-by-inning props)
- Lakers and Warriors (live betting was super smooth)
- 49ers and Chargers (futures, spreads, and same-game parlays)
- USC and UCLA football (with alt spreads and player props)
Most apps also featured odds boosts or custom markets for major West Coast matchups.
Mobile Betting UX for Sports in CA
I was impressed by how clean the interfaces were. It usually took just 2–3 taps to go from the homepage to the sport to the bet. Live odds are updated every few seconds, and props are grouped by category, which makes scrolling on smaller screens a lot easier. I was always able to find my preferred prop quickly due to this organized interface.
Mobile UX and Speed Test: How the Apps Performed
When you’re betting from your phone, speed and usability matter. So I tested each California betting app on both iPhone (iOS) and Android devices, focusing on loading times, bet placement speed, and overall navigation. Here’s what I found.
- BetOnline and Bovada consistently loaded in under 3 seconds, even on mobile data.
- Everygame and SportsBetting.ag were slightly slower but still under 5 seconds.
- BetUS had the longest load times during peak hours, but was stable once loaded.
Placing Bets
I timed how quickly I could go from logging into my account to placing a live bet:
- Fastest: BetOnline - 7 seconds from homepage to confirmation screen.
- Smoothest UX: Bovada - its bet slip auto-pops and recalculates fast.
- Clunkiest: MyBookie - too many taps to reach player props or alternate lines.
On average, all apps allowed me to place a live bet in under 15 seconds, even during fast-moving games.
Every operator uses a mobile browser version; there are no native apps to download. But most of them are optimized for touch:
- Menus stay sticky at the bottom of the screen.
- Live markets and odds refresh automatically.
- Cashier and bet history are one tap away.
I never had to pinch or zoom, and all the mobile pages adapted cleanly to both portrait and landscape mode.
My Real Betting Story
I live-tested a same-game parlay during a Lakers vs. Suns game. On Bovada, I built a 3-leg parlay with alt points, 3-pointers made, and final result, and placed it in under 10 seconds. The app even offered a cash-out option before halftime.
I also took the Dodgers live moneyline when they were losing 4-2 to the White Sox in the 7th inning. The live odds were favorable compared to the rest of the market, and I was able to cash in on the comeback with a nice return on investment when the Dodgers won 5-4 after scoring three runs in the 9th inning.
Are These Betting Apps Safe to Use in California?
Yes, even though California hasn’t launched its own regulated betting apps, these offshore sportsbooks are legally accessible and widely trusted by U.S. bettors. I tested each of the top apps on this list, and every one uses secure technology with fast, verified payout systems.
Here’s what you need to know about app safety:
- No VPN required: These apps are built for U.S. users and work from California without any tech tricks.
- Licensed and encrypted: Most are licensed in respected offshore jurisdictions like Curaçao or Panama, and all use SSL encryption to protect your data.
- Secure payments: You can deposit and withdraw using crypto, MatchPay, debit, or credit, all with protection in place.
- Trusted by thousands: Many of these operators have been active for 10+ years and have thousands of verified users in the U.S.
Final Verdict: Should You Use a Betting App in California?
If you’re in California and want to bet on sports from your phone, offshore betting apps are your best (and only) real-money option in 2025. I tested every app on this list to make sure they function at a high level with fast and secure payouts for users in the Golden State.
Here’s my honest take:
- Best for: Crypto bettors, casual sports fans, live bettors, and anyone who wants quick mobile access without red tape.
- Not ideal for: Bettors who only want California-regulated apps. Those don’t exist yet, and likely won’t until 2026 or later.
- Top Recommendation: BetOnline - fast payouts, great odds, and smooth mobile UX across all major sports.
No matter which app you go with, just make sure it’s one you’re comfortable using regularly. If you want my advice, start with BetOnline or Bovada and test out the mobile bonuses for yourself.
FAQs: California Betting Apps
What is the best betting app in California?
While there are no California-regulated sportsbooks, top offshore apps like BetOnline, Bovada, and Everygame are widely considered the best options. They offer real-money wagers, fast crypto payouts, and full mobile compatibility.
Are betting apps legal in California?
There are no licensed betting apps regulated by the state of California. However, it is legal for California residents to use offshore sportsbook apps, as long as the operator is located and licensed outside the U.S.
Can I use Bovada or BetOnline in California?
Yes. Both Bovada and BetOnline accept players from California and offer full access to their sportsbook and casino platforms through your mobile browser.
What’s the best app for crypto betting?
BetOnline and Bovada are the best crypto-friendly options for California users. Both accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other coins and offer some of the fastest crypto payouts in the industry.
Are there any California-regulated sportsbook apps?
No. As of 2025, California has not legalized mobile sports betting, so there are no locally regulated apps like FanDuel or DraftKings. Offshore sportsbooks are currently the only option.
Do I need a VPN to use a betting app in California?
No VPN is required. Offshore betting apps are accessible through your mobile browser and do not block California users. Just sign up and start betting, no location spoofing needed.
Table of Contents
California Sports Betting News
California AG Has His Say and Expresses His Opinion Regarding Fantasy Sports
California Attorney General Rob Bonta recently expressed his legal opinion on fantasy sports after a judge tossed Underdog Fantasy’s temporary injunction that would have prohibited
Underdog Sues to Block California DA’s Opinion on DFS Legality
Underdog is asking a Sacramento Superior Court to intervene and block the California Attorney General from releasing his opinion on the legality of daily fantasy
Will California Outlaw Fantasy Sports?
California Attorney General Rob Bonta is expected to decide whether to prohibit daily fantasy contests within the next few days.
California Gubernatorial Candidate Puts His Money Where His Mouth Is
California gubernatorial hopeful Kyle Langford placed a public wager on his own election chances via Kalshi, a prediction market skirting traditional gambling laws. His move
