Online casinos in California continue to grow in popularity with residents of the Golden State, and there are now dozens of online CA casinos offering classic games like blackjack, roulette, poker, slots, and more.
So, if you’re looking to join in the fun, then our experts have reviewed the top 10 best real money online casinos in California for 2025, covering everything you need to know, from welcome bonuses to the latest slot titles.
Latest News About Casino Legislation in California
California has the potential to become an online casino gaming powerhouse. But while sports betting and online poker laws have made a lot of headway, online casino gaming is still relatively stuck. Here are some of the recent developments.
- 2024 – With both Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 being rejected, there is no further headway in online gambling being legalized, with experts estimating it won’t be legalized until at least 2026.
- May, 2023: Governor Gavin Newsom officially signed California Assembly Bill 341, which will enable gradual cardroom growth over the next 20 years.
- January 2023: Lobbyists are regrouping after the crushing 2022 defeat at the ballots. 83% of Californians voted against online sports betting in the sixth-largest ballot defeat in the state’s history.
- November, 2022: The legislator passed Proposition 27 as a precedent to pass the bill that supports casinos and horse tracks to offer sports betting online and in person; this proposition was rejected.
- October, 2022: Federal appeals court to hear Steve Wynn’s civil racketeering lawsuit in December.
- September, 2022: The Tejon Indian Tribe’s new casino in Mettler can move forward now that the California legislature has adopted a bill ratifying a gaming contract with the tribe. However, there has been no definitive word on whether or not sports betting would be permitted on the site.
- August, 2022: Republicans in California have officially joined Democrats in opposing a ballot to legalize online casino gambling.
The Best Real Money Online Casinos in California List 2025
Here is a list of carefully handpicked 10 best online casinos in California for 2025:
- Wild Casino – The No.1 best California online casino overall for 2025
- BetWhale – Top CA casino for safe, instant withdrawals
- Slots Of Vegas – Good choice for huge jackpots & big instant payouts
- Bovada – Superb choice for both casino games and sports betting
- Lucky Creek – Enjoy western hospitality and generous bonuses
- Black Lotus – Regular players can claim ongoing promotions
- Vegas Aces – High quality games from the top software developers
- BetNow – Choose live games via numerous tables and real dealers
- Decode Casino – Leading casino for Bitcoin players seeking fast withdrawals
- Raging Bull – Free daily spins to use on the latest slot machines
Best California Online Casinos Reviewed
Now that you’ve seen our list of the 10 best online casinos in California, let’s dive into detailed reviews of our top picks.
1. Wild Casino – Overall Best California Online Casino for 2025
Wild Casino is a top pick when it comes to California online casinos, and is especially good for players who are most interested in blackjack.
This best online casino blackjack site has 11 different blackjack tables and offers a ton of variations on the original game. You can play multi-deck blackjack, European blackjack, and Perfect Pairs blackjack. Plus, Wild Casino offers a high betting limit of $5,000 at all tables.
This online casino offers more than 225 slot games, video poker, and live dealer games for blackjack, roulette, and baccarat. The live dealer tables are based on software from Betsoft and Nucleus Gaming, so they have a unique feel that you won’t get from other California gambling sites that rely exclusively on Real Time Gaming software.
Wild Casino offers a 250% deposit match bonus for new players worth up to $5,000 in total. Find this and more Wild Casino promo codes here. Plus, the casino accepts a huge range of cryptocurrencies for payment, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, and more.
What we like:
- Many different blackjack tables and variations
- Maximum $5,000 betting limit
- Live dealer games
- Accepts most popular cryptocurrencies for payment
What we don’t:
- Welcome bonus might feel a bit complicated
2. BetWhale – Top CA Casino for Safe, Instant Withdrawals
BetWhale is one of the newest online casinos in California, having only hit the scene in 2023. But, in that short period it has already impressed with its huge library of 1,300 games, which include include around 40 jackpot titles such as The Glam Life and Dragon Kings. Also amongst the hundreds of slots are plenty with the highest RTP, along with classic table games, plus a huge live dealers in real-time.
US residents can also spin the wheels with peace of mind as BetWhale have a very secure environment equipped with SSL encryption, ensuring a safe gaming experience. There is also a tidy selection of secure payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal and cryptocurrencies, Flexepin and Neosurf.
The final say places a feather in BetWhale’s cap for those who enjoy a break from the tables by having a sports wager, as they can visit an impressive sportsbook with thousands of events from the major leagues, including the NFL and NBA.
What we like:
- Over 1,300 diverse games
- Sportsbook options
- Secure, encrypted transactions
- User-friendly platform
What we don’t:
- Increase payout limits
3. Slots Of Vegas – Good Choice for Huge Jackpots & Big Instant Payouts
Slots Of Vegas is the perfect choice for US players who enjoy slot machines, as there are literally hundreds to choose from. Whether it’s action-packed superhero themes or sports-themed slots, this slots specialist boasts over 200 slot machine games, each with its own unique themes, number of reels and paylines such as Storm Lords and Trigger Happy. And, of course, there are the usual features such as bonus games, re-spins, progressive jackpots, free spins and free games.
Another nice touch is the option to play these slots for free before using real money, so that any newbies can learn the rules. Just head to the ‘Instant Play’ section of the site to enjoy some risk-free rounds.
Elsewhere, there are video poker games and table games, all of which can be played when out and about via the platform’s excellent mobile casino, while on the payments side, there is again plenty of choice via the range of cryptos such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin, along with traditional banking via credit and debit cards. Once registered and funds deposited, a generous 250% welcome bonus can be claimed.
What we like:
- Latest new titles
- Fast transactions for instant play
- High-end VIP program
- Late night and morning bonuses
What we don’t:
- No sportsbook
4. Bovada – Superb Choice for Both Casino Games and Sports Betting
Among the limited number of sites accessible to players in the United States, Bovada Casino stands out as one of the best California online casinos for bettors. You will find a multitude of bonuses, promotional offers, weekly cashbacks, tournaments, and competitions in addition to the already large selection of games and game categories the casino provides.
Bovada has a small but respectable gaming lobby, including offerings from multiple software developers like Rival and Real Time Gaming. Slot machines, video poker, table games, specialty games, and live dealer games are only some of the many subcategories of the games available at Bovada.
It shouldn’t come as a shock that Bovada casino rewards its real money players with casino points because the service they provide is second to none. The same holds true for placing bets on sporting events, and while you can turn your points into cash through the various Bovada promo codes, the rate you do is determined by the sort of wager you place and the game you play.
What we like:
- Reputable online gambling in California
- Fast crypto payouts
- Extensive game selection
- Lucrative welcome bonus
What we don’t:
- Less payment options
5. Lucky Creek – Win a Brand New Car at this Western-Themed Casino
New players are welcomed to Lucky Creek with a generous bonus package, and regular players can enjoy unique promotions like free spins and live dealer specials. To make the most of these offers, be sure to use the latest Lucky Creek bonus codes.
Payday payouts also provide a chance to win back 100% of your deposits, making it one of our favorite deals in this casino list.
We also want to highlight the competitive leaderboard prizes, which are perfect for high rollers. You’ll earn loyalty points through gameplay and gain access to exclusive challenges and rewards.
Deposits and payouts are safe and secure at this credit card casino, with options like Visa and Mastercard, bank wire transfers, and Bitcoin. Withdrawal requests are processed quickly, usually within 3-5 business days.
Additionally, Lucky Creek uses advanced security measures to protect your personal and financial data. This means you can enjoy playing at this online casino site with peace of mind.
What we like:
- Stands out with its original Wild West Theme
- Offers generous promotions and bonuses
- Provides a decent range of games with cool graphics
- Operates with SSL Certificate and encryptions
What we don’t:
- Lower the wagering requirements
- Add more payment methods
How to Compare the Best California Online Casinos
There’s a lot to think about when comparing California casinos. In this section, we’ll dive into some of the key factors you need to think about when picking a real money casino online in California.
Range of Games
The first thing to look at when comparing California online casinos is the range of games they offer.
For example, some casinos like Two Up and Free Spin focus primarily on slots and classic table games like blackjack. Others, like Wild Casino and Everygame which are our top picks for best craps online casino sites, offer live dealer games and specialty table games like craps.
If you want to play slots or online blackjack, having a huge range of games available might not be a big deal. But, if you want the full casino experience, look for an online casino that offers the widest possible range of games to try out.
Software
Online casino software providers play a huge role in your gaming experience.
One of the leading software providers in the online casino industry is Real Time Gaming. This company produces such spectacular online casino games that it is used by 8 out of the top 10 online California casinos. Real Time Gaming offers slots, table games, live dealer games, and more.
Betting Limits
Many online casinos have limits on how much you can bet on a single slot pull or a single round of table games. The minimum at many CA online casinos is just $1, but the maximum can range widely between platforms.
Some online casinos like Bovada have high roller tables with extended betting limits.
VIP Tables
VIP programs are a way that some casinos – like Wild Casino – reward loyal players for choosing their site. At Wild Casino, VIPs get access to exclusive promotions, high-stakes tables, free gifts, and more.
California Casinos – Bonuses
Most casinos offer welcome bonuses for new players, as well as ongoing promotions to encourage you to try out new games and reward you for playing.
We’ll dive into more details about welcome bonuses below.
Mobile Experience
So many online casinos have rolled out mobile apps for iOS and Android. Typically, these California casino apps give you access to the same range of games as a casino’s desktop platform.
Advantages of California Online Gambling Sites
Although the state of California has super restrictive laws in terms of gambling and sports wagering, the state has numerous brick-and-mortar casinos. These casinos have, however, lost their shine due to the ongoing pandemic and general loss of interest from the public. California is yet to legalize online gambling, but it seems that gamblers are looking for alternative ways to play online and enjoy the benefits.
✅ More Gambling Options – Offshore sites offer a very crucial option for online gambling California enthusiasts. While in the Golden State, your only online options are social casinos and Daily Fantasy Sports. You would otherwise have to take a trip to other states that have legalized online gaming. One of the best advantages that you will enjoy here is that there are hundreds of gambling websites to pick from, all at your fingertips and from the comfort of your home.
✅ Less Hassle and More Privacy – All the gambling online California can access has obvious advantages over traditional brick-and-mortar shops. For instance, you don’t have to travel when you play online. This means you get to save a bit of cash and so much of your precious time. Online gambling sites also come with responsible gaming tools, while your personal data is safely stored away using data encryption.
✅ Online Casino Bonuses – Sure, land casinos offer some comps to customers. However, these giveaways are usually reserved for VIP players who spend tons of cash at the casino. Online gambling California sites, on the other hand, shower their players with freebies regardless of how much they are spending. For example, at online casinos, the signup offer is extended to all new players who make a minimum deposit, which can be as low as $5. So, no player misses out.
Bonuses for California Online Casinos
Every one of the top 10 online California casinos offers a welcome bonus for new players. These welcome bonuses can represent a huge amount of money, so it’s important to understand what they are and how they work.
To start, let’s break down the 3 main types of online casino welcome bonuses.
Deposit Match Bonuses
The most common type of welcome bonus you’ll find at real money online casinos in California is a deposit match bonus. When you make your first deposit after opening an account, the casino will match the amount or even exceed it.
For example, Wild Casino offers a deposit match of up to $5,000. So if you deposit $5,000 into your account, the casino will give you $10,000 to start betting.
Free Spin Bonuses
Many real-money online casinos offer free spins that you can use on selected slot games. Free spins are essentially free bets – you can bet on all of the different lines that a slot game offers and pull to see if you win.
No Deposit Bonuses
No deposit bonuses are offers you receive just for creating an online casino account; no deposit is required. They tend to be rare.
Welcome Bonus Terms and Conditions
Welcome bonuses are subject to terms and conditions that should be understood before accepting them.
- Wagering Requirement: This is a crucial condition where you must wager the bonus amount a certain number of times. For instance, at Wild Casino, the wagering requirement is 35X.
- Example: If you deposit $1,000 and receive a $1,000 bonus, you’ll need to bet a total of $35,000 ($1,000 x 35) before withdrawing the bonus funds.
- Time Limits: Many bonuses have time restrictions. You might need to use the entire bonus within 30 days or fulfill the wagering requirement within 6 months.
- Importance of Checking Time Limits: When considering a bonus offer, make sure to review and understand the specified time limits associated with the bonus conditions.
What Games Can You Play With Real Money Online Casino California?
Some of the top games include blackjack, which is available in a variety of different styles as well as at live dealer games. You’ll also find American and European roulette, both virtual and live, plus many other casino games for online gambling in California.
Slots
This is a game of chance. Players win by spinning the slot machine reels to get random symbols. If the correct symbols line up, you unlock bonus rounds and/or win money.
Blackjack
This is a table game played in casinos to earn real money. The game is known as the most widely played game in the world. It is a game of strategy. Playing blackjack in live dealer casinos is often preferred for the comfort it gives players.
Roulette
Another very famous game is roulette, which comes in variants such as European and American.
Baccarat
Baccarat is a casino game played between two hands, the “banker” and the “player.” Each round of play (known as a coup) has three possible outcomes: the “banker” (when the banker has a higher-value hand), the “player,” or a “tie.”
Keno
This is a lottery-style game that has its origin in China. This game is played with cards having numbers ranging from 1 to 80 in squares. You can circle as many numbers as you like without exceeding the required maximum circled number.
Live Casino
A live casino is also known as a live dealer casino. This feature gives players a replica of an offline casino from the comfort of their homes and an opportunity to earn real money.
Is Online Gambling Legal in California
For the longest time, the United States’ stance on online gambling was rigid. Today, the federal government allows the pastime but leaves different state authorities to craft localized laws. A few states across the country have legalized almost all forms of gambling, both at land-based establishments and online. Is online gambling legal in California? The short answer is no. In California, most forms of online gaming remain banned. In fact. California has never authorized any gaming platform to operate online within its jurisdiction.
Many punters from California opt to play at offshore sportsbooks. These are foreign operators that cannot be controlled by the state. After PASPA was repealed in 2018, the legal landscape for gambling began to look promising, culminating in a huge opportunity for legal online sports betting in CA. In November 2022, both Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 went to the public ballot, which, were they passed, would have paved the way for legal online gambling. Both ballots were defeated and failed to pass. It is still hoped that legal sports gambling will go live in the next few years, although the earliest another vote can take place is around 2026-2028.
Offshore Gambling
As we’ve mentioned before, no California legal online gambling websites are operating within state lines, as this is strictly prohibited by the state. The government only allows California online sports betting sites to run if they are running Daily Fantasy Sports and free play casinos, which are also known as social casinos. So, for the keen gambler who is looking for a real full casino and sportsbook experience, offshore gambling seems like the only way forward.
It’s quite interesting that local legislation does not specifically address the issue of online gambling California websites. The state does not specify offshore gambling as legal, and at the same time, they cannot say that it’s illegal. There is an abundance of online gambling sites waiting to be discovered. The trouble is you won’t know where to start looking. You will be at great risk if you dive right in and play at the first offshore gaming platform you see. This is why it is essential to check if the casino or sportsbook is licensed. We have done this for you in our list of the best online casino sites for California.
Who Can Legally Play at an Online Casino in California?
Offshore online casinos are the only available online casinos in California, and they require players to be at least 18 years old to gamble on their websites. The only type of domestic gambling allowed online is horse racing.
What is the Legal Gambling Age in California?
The minimum legal gambling age for this in California is also 18.
Are There Taxes on Gambling Winnings in California?
- All gambling winnings are subject to some form of taxation in California, apart from if you win the state lottery.
- Any winnings under $5,000, either online or in person, are taxed at a rate of 24%.
- If you land winnings above this amount, or above 300x your initial bet, then you will have to declare these to the authorities on a W4 tax withholding form.
Online Gambling Laws in California
The gambling laws in California have always been more restrictive than most other US states. Many forms of gambling are not allowed. Online gambling is not specified, leaving a gap in the legislation. Okay, so what kind of gambling is allowed? Legally, you can participate in state-run lotteries. Lotteries became legal back in 1984. Today, there are hundreds of lottery ticket sales outlets in the Golden State.
Card rooms are also allowed to operate in California. These establishments closely resemble casinos but will not include certain games, such as slots. There are no commercial casinos in the state, but tribal reserves run and regulate brick-and-mortar casinos within their land. Generally, gamers are required by law to be 18 years or older. However, at brick-and-mortar tribal casinos, the age restriction is 21 years. Tribal casinos operate outside of California’s jurisdiction and are, therefore, not controlled by the state.
The only form of online gambling that you can get is horse racing betting. Otherwise, sports gambling is almost completely illegal, whether online or physically. However, the good news for horse race fanatics is that there are several racetracks and regulated land-based racebooks that accept bets from players throughout the year. Examples of racecourses include the Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley and Los Alamitos in Cypress.
There are indications that sports betting may soon become legalized. Following recent proposals from operators and stakeholders, we may witness a California online gambling bill being passed in 2022.
Timeline of California Gaming Laws
- 2024 – Experts predict the earliest time online sports betting could become legalized is 2026-2028.
- 2023 – The waiting for 2024 begins, the next time legalization can go to the ballot
- 2022 – Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 go on the 2022 ballot but are both defeated
- 2021 – Cities, sportsbooks, and card room operators form a coalition to include sports wagering in the 2022 ballot.
- 2020 – A ballot is proposed to make changes to state laws on sports wagering.
- 2018 – The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was overturned, making way for the possible legalization of sports betting.
- 2016 – Daily Fantasy sports became legal after the legislature voted
Regulated Online Gambling vs Offshore Sites
Regulated Online Gambling:
- California Situation: Regulated online gambling is not available in California.
- Legal Status: There are no legally authorized and regulated online gambling platforms in the state.
- Caution: Any site claiming to offer regulated online gambling in California is not legitimate and should be reported to authorities.
- Player Protection: Regulated sites typically offer enhanced player protection and adherence to local laws.
Offshore Sites:
- Legal Status: Offshore gambling sites operate in a legal gray area across the US, including California.
- Availability: Players in California can access offshore sites, provided the site accepts US players.
- Legality: While not domestically regulated, offshore sites are generally considered legal for Californians to use.
- Bonuses and Accessibility: Offshore sites often provide attractive welcome bonuses and support various currencies for gameplay.
Remember, it’s important to verify the legality of any gambling site you use and prioritize your security as a player.
How to Play at Online Casinos from California Legally
Ready to start playing with the best online casinos in California? We’ll show you how to sign up with Wild Casino, which offers a 250% deposit match bonus for new players worth up to $1,000!
1. Click “Join Now”
Choose one of the reputable online casinos in California featured on this page and click our exclusive link to visit the site. You can then click “Join Now”, “Join” or “Sign Up” at the top of the page to start the sign-up process.
2. Enter Your Personal Details
You will be asked to provide some basic personal details – first name, last name, email address, residential address, phone number, and date of birth. When the details are filled in, check they are correct and click “Create Account” to begin.
3. Make an Initial Deposit and Claim a Bonus
You can play games in demo mode to learn the ropes, but you will need to make a deposit to play for real money and claim your sign-up bonus.
4. Choose a Game
When your account has been set up and funded, you can head over to the casino lobby to find a game that appeals to you.
5. Start Playing
You can now start playing your favorite games. If you complete the turnover requirement attached to your match deposit welcome bonus or California online casino no deposit bonus, you will be able to make a cash withdrawal.
How to Stay Safe While Playing at Online Casinos in California
Online gambling is legal at offshore betting sites and casinos in California, but finding secure platforms is essential.
- Licensing Matters:
- Play on sites fully licensed by a recognized gambling jurisdiction.
- Recommended California online casinos on this page possess valid licenses for iGaming, ensuring high standards.
- Stay Informed:
- Stay updated on evolving US online gambling regulations.
- Be aware of potential openings of local, regulated sites or changes in the minimum gambling age.
Payment Methods Available at California Online Casinos
Another thing to consider when choosing the best online casino in CA are the casino payment methods offered to deposit and withrdawal.
Crypto at Casinos
Crypto banking options are fast and traceable. Transaction fees are rock-bottom too, where they are present.
eWallets at Casinos
Transactions are pretty quick, and fees are typically absent. Some popular eWallets include PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill.
Traditional Payment Methods
Whichever method you use, be sure to check on payout times, too. Most casinos pay out within a day or two of your withdrawal request, but some online casinos can take up to a week to cash out.
Land-Based Casinos in California
California is also one of the biggest states for land-based casino gaming. The state’s laws don’t allow for casinos, but it does allow for card rooms. In card rooms, you can play table games like blackjack and poker legally.
The main difference between card rooms and casinos in California is that at card rooms, the house doesn’t serve as the bank – other players do. That way, the card room itself doesn’t have a stake in the outcome of any games.
There are currently 66 card room casinos in California, with the biggest rooms hosting more than 300 tables. The largest California card rooms are:
- Commerce Casino (Commerce, CA)
- Hawaiian Gardens Casino (Hawaiian Gardens, CA)
- The Bicycle Hotel & Casino (Inglewood, CA)
- Hollywood Park Casino (Inglewood, CA)
- Hustler Casino (Gardena, CA)
Los Angeles Casinos Near Me: Top Los Angeles Casinos List
Below is a list of the 10 best land-based card rooms and casinos in Los Angeles County. Browse through the venues and their addresses to find a gaming destination near you.
Casinos and Card Rooms in Los Angeles | Address |
Bicycle Casino Hotel (Card Room) | 888 Bicycle Casino Dr, Bell Gardens, CA 90201, United States |
Commerce Casino (Card Room) | 6131 Telegraph Rd, Commerce, CA 90040, United States |
Crystal Casino (Card Room) | 123 E Artesia Blvd, Compton, CA 90220, United States |
Hawaiian Gardens Casino (Card Room) | 11871 E Carson St, Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716, United States |
Hollywood Park Casino (Card Room) | 3883 W Century Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90303, United States |
Hustler® Casino (Card Room) | 1000 W Redondo Beach Blvd, Gardena, CA 90247, United States |
Larry Flynt’s Lucky Lady Casino (Card Room) | 1045 Rosecrans Ave, Gardena, CA 90247, United States |
Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa | 49500 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230, United States |
Pechanga Resort and Casino | 45000 Pechanga Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592, United States |
Yaamava Resort and Casino | 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346, United States |
Responsible Gambling in California
There are a number of resources you can use to stay safe when gambling in California. While most sites should offer you some security measures, such as self-exclusion after depositing or spending a certain amount, you can also contact helplines within the state in order to get your issue sorted. The following sites are available for you to use free of charge:
- The Office for Problem Gambling
- The California Council on Problem Gambling – (1-800-GAMBLER (426-2537))
California Online Gambling Resources
Gambling should be a fun activity for all who can legally enjoy it. However, it can also cause significant stress if done wrongly and outside of your means. Whenever this becomes the case you should consider immediately stopping what you are doing, and consulting one of the below resources, which have helped thousands of problem gamblers in California.
- California Department of Public Health’s Office of Problem Gambling
- Gamblers Anonymous
- National Council on Problem Gambling
Best Real Money Online Casino California
Each of our top picks is well worth checking out. But, with its huge selection of slots and table games, unique rewards program, and dedication to weekly customer deals like rebates and free spins, Wild Casino just about edges out ahead of the pack in our estimations. Plus, sign up with Wild Casino today and claim up to $5,000 in welcome bonus cash.