California Online Casinos for Real Money

Discover the best CA gambling sites to gamble online in the Golden State

LGUSA Header
#1 - Best overall
cafe_casino
5 stars
350% up to $2,500

5

Overall Rating

21

Top features:

  • 300+ real money titles from Revolver, RTG, Rival, Spinomenal, Wohoo, and more
  • All games fully optimized for mobile
  • Supports major credit cards, Bitcoin, and altcoins

What we like:

  • Hot Drop jackpots
  • Try games free with no sign-up
  • $5 min. deposit with USDT
#1 - Best overall
cafe_casino
5 stars

Bonus:

350% up to $2,500

Top features:

  • 300+ real money titles from Revolver, RTG, Rival, Spinomenal, Wohoo, and more
  • All games fully optimized for mobile
  • Supports major credit cards, Bitcoin, and altcoins

Bonus:

350% up to $2,500

5

5 stars
21

What we like:

  • Hot Drop jackpots
  • Try games free with no sign-up
  • $5 min. deposit with USDT
#2
wild_casino
4.5 stars
$5,000 Welcome Package

4.5

Overall Rating

23

Top features:

  • Over 400 real money slots from Betsoft and Nucleus
  • App compatible with Android and iOS
  • Progressive jackpots and slots tournaments

What we like:

  • Responsive customer service
  • 20 payment methods including cards and 10+ cryptos
  • Generous recurring promotions
#2
wild_casino
4.5 stars

Bonus:

$5,000 Welcome Package
#2

Top features:

  • Over 400 real money slots from Betsoft and Nucleus
  • App compatible with Android and iOS
  • Progressive jackpots and slots tournaments

Bonus:

$5,000 Welcome Package

4.5

4.5 stars
23

What we like:

  • Responsive customer service
  • 20 payment methods including cards and 10+ cryptos
  • Generous recurring promotions
#3
red_dog_casino
4.5 stars
$8,000 Welcome Bonus

4.5

Overall Rating

9

Top features:

  • 250+ real money casino games
  • Wide selection of Rival slots
  • Play on mobile (iPhone & Android)

What we like:

  • New slots free spins
  • Recurring promotions
  • Great customer service
#3
red_dog_casino
4.5 stars

Bonus:

$8,000 Welcome Bonus
#3

Top features:

  • 250+ real money casino games
  • Wide selection of Rival slots
  • Play on mobile (iPhone & Android)

Bonus:

$8,000 Welcome Bonus

4.5

4.5 stars
9

What we like:

  • New slots free spins
  • Recurring promotions
  • Great customer service
California State Flag

If you’re a Californian interested in online gambling, you’re in the right place. This guide highlights top-rated California online casinos with a wide variety of games and stakes, as well as incredible bonuses including the best California no-deposit bonuses. We’ll also introduce you to the top California casino apps for those looking for quick and secure online gaming experiences.

Key Things You Need to Know

  • Your options for legal online gambling in California are limited. Online pari-mutuel betting and DFS are legal, but online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms are not. 
  • Offshore online casinos that accept US players are the best place for California bettors to play casino games online. Because these operators are based outside the USA, they fall into a legal “gray area.” No one has ever been prosecuted for playing at these sites. 
  • The best offshore casinos for California players have massive casino bonuses, hundreds of real-money games, and secure payment methods. They’re also licensed in foreign countries, such as Curacao.
  • As offshore casinos aren’t regulated in the USA, scam sites exist. Always check that the operator is legitimate or use one of our expert-vetted sites for guaranteed online safety. 
  • It is unclear if or when California will legalize and regulate online gambling. Few lawmakers are pushing for legal sports betting this year, but real-money online casinos still have a long way to go.

Top Rated California Online Casinos

The best online casino for you depends on your budget, preferences, and gameplay. Here are how our top California casinos fare in different categories:

  1. Cafe Casino – Best overall real money casino in California
  2. BetUS Casino – Best California casino for game variety
  3. Las Atlantis Casino – Largest welcome bonuses

Our experts have chosen the best California casinos based on their massive bonuses, incredible game selection, and secure payment methods. 

1. Café Casino

Launching in 2016, Café Casino is another top California online casino. This gambling site is owned and operated by Lynton Limited, the name behind the reputable Bodog Group. It holds a valid gaming license from the Government of Curacao, proving it operates safely and fairly. 

Cafe Casino Home

Welcome Promotions

Café Casino is giving all new players a 250% match of up to $1,500 on their first deposit. Depositing with Bitcoin gives you an even bigger reward: You can claim 350% up to $2,500. You need to fund your account with at least $20 to be eligible, and a playthrough of 40x applies to both offers. 

These are two of the best promotions you can claim if you’re a casual player. The massive percentage match means that even if you deposit the minimum of $20, you’ll still get $50 in bonus credits from the standard offer. Deposit with crypto, and you’ll receive $70 in promotional credits―that means you’ll have $90 in your account with only a $20 upfront investment.

Game Selection

You can enjoy 230 games at Café Casino, including a diverse selection of slots, table games, video poker games, and live dealer titles. Many are from top developers like RTG and Rival. However, several games are from the in-house development team and are exclusive to the Café Casino site. 

Most of the games at Café Casino are slots. There are 160 in total in various themes, including Birds of Fury, Bounty Hunter, and Caesar’s Empire. You can play for as little as $0.01, whereas some slots require $150 per spin. There are also progressive jackpot slots like 777 Deluxe if you want to take home five- or six-figure prizes.

Café Casino also offers various table games in live and electronic formats. You’ll find all the titles you can play at a land-based California casino, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and even bingo online.

Other Promotions

Café Casino has a few ongoing promotions: a $100 friend referral offer, hot-drop jackpot games, and weekly mystery bonuses. 

However, the primary way that Café Casino rewards its existing players is through its loyalty scheme. Upon signup, you’re automatically enrolled into the VIP scheme and earn points for every real-money wager placed. These points can be exchanged for cash prizes, with higher cash redemption rates given to the most loyal players.

Banking Methods

Café Casino accepts crypto and fiat payment methods, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, Visa, Mastercard, bank wire, and courier checks. Cryptocurrencies have the best payment terms. You can deposit as little as $5 when using Tether, which is great for casual players. Meanwhile, withdrawals are free and processed within 24 hours. 

2. BetUS Casino Review

BetUS Casino, a long-standing player in the industry since 1994, is acquired by Lunada N.V. It operates under the jurisdiction of Curacao, ensuring reliable and regulated online gaming.

Welcome promotions

The international casino offers a match bonus of 150% limited to $3,000 for new players. If you’re a crypto enthusiast, there’s a 250% match bonus capped at $5,000 for Bitcoin deposits. These bonuses come with a 30 times and 40 times wagering requirement respectively.

Game selection

BetUS hosts an array of slots and casino games. From classic 3-reel slots to multifaceted video slots, you are spoilt for choice. They also offer table games like poker, blackjack, and roulette. The games are powered by Digital Gaming Solutions, a leading software provider.

BetUS Games

Other promotions

Apart from the welcome bonuses, BetUS Casino has a 10% casino rebate program where players can earn back a percentage of their losses. The rollover for this program is 40x. There are also promotions like ‘Video Poker Bonus’ and ‘Slots Blow-Out Bonus’ offering a 10% and 50% bonus respectively, each with respective wagering requirements of 50x and 30x.

Banking methods

BetUS supports several banking options, including credit cards, bank wire, and various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. The lowest deposit is $10, with a maximum of $5,000. Withdrawal amounts range from $50 to $3,000 per payout, with Bitcoin payouts normally paid out within 1 day.

3. Las Atlantis Casino Review

Las Atlantis Casino, a modern and reputable online casino, was founded in 2020. It functions within the legal framework of Curacao and is owned by Top One Partners.

Welcome promotions

New players at Las Atlantis Casino will be pleased to be greeted with a 280% match bonus up to $14,000. There’s also a 300% slots match bonus for Bitcoin deposits. These bonuses come with a 35x wagering requirement.

Game selection

The casino boasts a wide selection of over 200 slot games. Developed by RealTime Gaming, their slots include video slots, 3-reel slots, and progressive jackpots. They also host table games like roulette, blackjack, and poker.

Other promotions

Apart from the sign up bonuses, this platform offers a Game of the Month promotion where you can earn free spins and bonuses on a desired game. The offshore casino runs other promotions like ‘Special Bonuses’, also offering cash bonuses and free spins with a rollover requirement of 35x.

Banking methods

Banking options at Las Atlantis include credit cards, Bitcoin, and gift cards. Deposit limits range from $30 for credit cards, $20 when using Bitcoin, and just $10 when using Neosurf, with a maximum deposit limit of $2,500 when using Bitcoin. Withdrawals range from $150 to $2,500 per transaction. The processing time for Bitcoin withdrawals is typically between 1-3 business days, offering you a quick and efficient service.

You can also check out our list of all online casinos available to US players.

Compare the Best California Real Money Casinos

Welcome bonusGamesPayout timeGame ProvidersDeposit methods
Cafe Casino350% up to $2,5002001-3 daysRTG, Revolver Gaming, Rival, Woohoo Gaming, Spinomenal, proprietary titlesBitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Tether, Ethereum, Visa, Amex and Mastercard
Ignition Casino300% up to $3,0001502-5 daysRevolver, RTG, Rival, Spinomenal, proprietary titlesBitcoin, Ethereum, Litcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Tether, Bitcoin Cash, Visa, Mastercard, and Voucher
Red Dog Casino275% on first five deposits1701-3 daysRival, RTGVisa, Mastercard, Discover, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Tether, and Flexepin.

Types of Legal Gambling in California

California offers a wide variety of gambling options, both online and offline, though the regulations can be complex due to differing interests among stakeholders in California’s gambling industry. 

The state is home to more than 60 licensed card rooms that offer games like poker and blackjack. However, in these card rooms, the venue does not act as the “house,” and they cannot offer Class III gaming like slot machines.

There are also over 60 tribal casinos in California, operated by Native American tribes under federal law. These casinos can offer a broader range of games, as well as other Class III gaming options, and slots, and blackjack.

The state has several horse racing tracks and allows pari-mutuel betting. Races are held regularly, and betting can also be done at licensed off-track locations.

The California Lottery offers a variety of games, including scratch-offs and draw games. The lottery is widely available and operates under state regulation. 

The only form of online gambling explicitly legal in California is betting on horse races. Several sites are licensed to offer these services to California residents.

Although not officially legalized, daily fantasy sports platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings operate in a legal gray area and continue to accept players from California. 

The minimum legal age for gambling in California is 18, but many casinos and other gambling establishments have a higher age limit to comply with alcohol licensing laws. 

Attempts to expand online gambling, such as internet poker or sports betting, have so far been unsuccessful, largely due to conflicts of interest between tribal casinos and commercial card rooms.

Charitable Gambling

In California, charitable organizations are allowed to host charitable gambling events as fundraisers, so long as they comply with California gambling laws and regulations. These events can include games like poker and bingo, and they must be operated by volunteers from the organization. Proceeds must go toward charitable purposes, and these events require a special license from the state.

Bingo Halls

Bingo halls are another venue for legalized gambling in California. Many of these are operated by philanthropic entities, but commercial bingo is also available. The games are subject to regulation, including limitations on prize amounts and the requirement that a portion of proceeds go to charitable or non-profit activities. Both charitable and commercial bingo establishments must adhere to state and local laws to operate legally.

California Online Casinos vs. Local Casinos

In California, the land-based gambling industry is substantial, featuring over 60 licensed card rooms and more than 60 tribal casinos. These establishments primarily fall into two categories: tribal casinos offer a wide array of Class III games like slots and blackjack, while card rooms focus on games like poker but cannot offer Class III gaming.

Tribal casinos are constitutionally permitted to offer specific Class III games, but games decided by dice or wheel spins, such as roulette and craps, are excluded. Some card rooms offer modified casino-style games, a point of contention with tribal operators.

Online gambling remains restricted, with the exception of advanced-deposit horse race betting through state-licensed platforms. Despite the lack of legalized online casinos, some residents resort to offshore sites, which operate in a legal gray area. The California Penal Code, while not explicitly mentioning online gambling, does stipulate penalties for illegal gambling, potentially encompassing offshore activities. To date, no individual has been prosecuted for using such services.

How To Gamble Online in California

Step 1: Pick an Online Casino

We think Cafe Casino is the best place to gamble online if you’re in California. If you want to see other options, you can scroll up and check out our reviews of other online casinos in California.

Step 2: Register an Account

Go to the Cafe Casino website and click the button that says “Join.” Put in your basic details such as your name, email, and birthday to make a new account. Finish setting up your account by clicking a special link sent to your email.

Step 3: Add Money to Your Account

Once you make sure your email is right, head over to the part of the website called “Cashier.” This is where you can put money into your account. Cafe Casino has a special deal where they give you extra money if you make your first deposit using cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin. Pick how you want to pay and finish adding money to your account.

Step 4: Start Betting

Now that you have money in your account and you’ve got your bonus offer, you’re all ready to start gambling. Check out all the different games they have, like poker on video, games with live people dealing cards, and slots that have big jackpots. Pick the game you want to play, bet some money, and have fun.

Gambling in and Near California

Below is a curated list of five prominent tribal casinos in California, complete with their addresses and a brief overview of the amenities each offers.

Pechanga Resort and Casino

Address: 45000 Pechanga Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592

Pechanga Resort and Casino is one of the largest casinos in California, offering a wide array of gaming options including over 4,000 slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The resort also features multiple dining options, a spa, and a golf course.

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel

Address: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346

Located in Highland, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino offers a variety of gaming options such as slots, table games, and high-limit rooms. The casino also provides numerous dining experiences and live entertainment options.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort

Address: 1200 Athens Ave, Lincoln, CA 95648

Situated in Lincoln, Thunder Valley Casino Resort is known for its expansive gaming floor that includes a plethora of slot machines, table games, and a live poker room. The resort also offers luxury accommodations, dining venues, and a spa.

Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa

Address: 49500 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230

Located near Palm Springs, Morongo Casino offers a wide variety of gaming options, including slots and table games. The resort features multiple dining options, a spa, and an entertainment venue for live shows.

Cache Creek Casino Resort

Address: 14455 CA-16, Brooks, CA 95606

Cache Creek is located in Brooks and offers a large selection of slots, table games, and poker. The resort also has several dining options, a spa, and a golf course for those looking for more than just gaming experiences.

Other Forms of Gambling in California

Read our guides to discover more about the various forms of legal gambling in California.

Casino Games You Can Play in California

The state of California offers a variety of casino games that you can enjoy, primarily at its tribal casinos and licensed card rooms. The variety ranges from table games to slots, all within the confinements of the state’s gambling laws.

Poker

Poker is one of the top games you can play in California, especially in licensed card rooms. The game involves a blend of expertise, strategy, and luck. Players receive a set of cards and aim to have the best hand, according to the game’s rules, to win the pot.

Blackjack

Blackjack is available in many of California’s tribal casinos. The objective is to get a hand totaling closer to 21 than the hand of the dealer without going over. This game is one of the simpler table games, making it popular among both new and seasoned gamblers.

Slot Machines

Slot machines are predominantly found in tribal casinos. These machines are simple to operate; players insert coins and either pull a handle or press a button. The goal is to match symbols across a payline to win prizes.

Baccarat

Baccarat is another table game that you can find in some California casinos. In this game, there are only three possible outcomes: a Tie, Banker win or Player win. Players place bets on either the player’s or banker’s hand, which will be closer to a total of nine.

Pai Gow Poker

Pai Gow Poker is a modified version of the classic Chinese Pai Gow game, adapted to use a regular deck of cards. The game is found mainly in card rooms. Players will receive seven cards and must create two hands, a “high” hand and a “low” hand, to beat both of the hands of the dealer.

Craps and Roulette (Modified Versions)

It’s worth noting that traditional versions of roulette and craps are not allowed in California tribal casinos due to state law. However, you may encounter modified versions that are legally compliant, such as using cards instead of dice in craps.

These are just some of the games you can enjoy in California’s gaming establishments, each with its own set of rules and strategies. Always remember to gamble responsibly.

Timeline of Gambling Legislation in California

  • 1872: California makes it illegal to play banked or percentage games that involve cards or dice.
  • 1933: State residents vote in favor of legalizing wagering on horse races.
  • 1976: The state’s voters approve the use of bingo for charitable fundraising.
  • 1984: A statewide lottery is authorized through a public vote in California.
  • 1987: The Supreme Court of the United States decides that neither the state of California nor local governments have the authority to regulate gambling activities on Native American reservations.
  • 1988: The U.S. Congress enacts the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, mandating that Native American tribes and states must form agreements, known as compacts, for the tribes to provide specific types of gambling.
  • 1997: California’s legislative body passes the Gambling Control Act, establishing a wide-ranging system for overseeing gambling activities in the state.
  • 1999: Governor Gray Davis negotiates gambling agreements with 57 federally acknowledged tribes in California.
  • 2000: Voters in California agree to a constitutional amendment that allows the governor to form compacts with Native American tribes, permitting them to offer slot machines, lottery games, and certain card games that are banked and percentage-based.
  • 2008: Californians approve a measure allowing four specific tribes to expand their slot machine offerings by a total of 17,000 machines, while also requiring these tribes to contribute more funds to the state.
  • 2012: Senate Bill 1463 was introduced to legalize online poker, but the bill ultimately failed to pass, marking one of several unsuccessful attempts to oversee online poker in California.
  • 2014-2016: Several attempts were made in this period to legalize and regulate online poker through various bills, but none made it through the legislative process.

There have been several attempts to introduce bills concerning online casino gambling and land-based casino gambling in California, but none have successfully been enacted into law. The primary issues have revolved around the regulation of online poker and sports betting.

Various stakeholders, including tribal casino operators, card rooms, and lawmakers, have struggled to come to an agreement on how to structure any new regulations, particularly in the realm of online gambling.

California Online Gambling FAQs

What types of gambling are available in CA?

California is a great state for poker enthusiasts and casino game fans, as the Golden State is packed with tribal casinos, card clubs, and prestigious poker rooms. In fact, the Commerce Casino is believed to host the biggest live poker room in the world. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also horse racing, a state lottery, and bingo in California. However, when it comes to internet play, California is yet to follow in Nevada’s footsteps and introduce new laws that would create a regulated intrastate iGaming industry.

Can you gamble online in California?

Online gambling is not legal in the Golden State. To wager online, you must join one of our recommended gambling websites, such as Cafe Casino or BetUS. You can also play blackjack, slots, and roulette at CA social casinos.

What laws cover online gambling in CA?

All of the laws that deal with gambling and games of chance are listed in the California code. The most important thing about California regulations is the fact that none of them apply specifically to iGaming services, which means that California-based players are pretty much free to join the action on Bovada or any of the best offshore sites.

Does California offer legal (licensed and regulated) online gambling?

No. While California lawmakers don’t really care about individual players, they do care about keeping all the local gambling operations in check. Consequently, the current regulations make it impossible for local businesses to operate iGaming sites and to offer internet gambling services.

Are online casinos legal in California?

Currently, there are no laws in the state of California making online casino gambling illegal. It means the state residents are free to play online casino games for money in the state.

However, the Californian gambling state law bans the ownership and operation of a casino gambling site within its jurisdiction. But it shouldn’t bother the local gamblers unless their local jurisdiction makes any regulation against gambling online.

Are real money California casinos safe?

Most California casinos are 100% safe. However, a new gambler with limited knowledge may end up falling into a shady casino site, and many such sites are operating with questionable credibility. So, it is always safer to stick with a safe and trusted casino site that we have recommended at the top of this guide. You can thank us later for making the best online gambling experience from the comfort of your California house.

How old do I need to be to play at online casinos in California?

In California, you should be at least 21 to play at the state’s card rooms. Although there are no existing laws regarding online gambling, we feel safe saying that a resident must be at least 18 before gambling online at the best 18+ online casinos.

How do I deposit at CA online casinos?

Each CA online casino offers specific banking methods for depositing funds before you’re able to enjoy gambling. Our top California casinos accept everything from credit card/debit card, bank transfers, e-wallets, etc. However, we recommend cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Ethereum for those Californian residents who want to enjoy a premium online gambling experience while keeping themselves anonymous. Offshore sites offer cash-outs via wire/bank transfer, check by courier, or cryptocurrency.

Can I bet on sports online in California?

While California has yet to regulate the online sports betting industry, the residents can still enjoy the online action via any of the top offshore sports betting sites. Bovada, BetUS, and BetOnline are among the top sports betting apps for Californian sports bettors.

How do I receive my online casino winnings?

While you may deposit by credit or debit card, your casino may not extend the same method for you to cash out your casino winnings. Most often, California gambling sites release your winnings through paper checks or direct bank transfers. You can also request to receive your winnings by bitcoin.

What is the fastest payout method to receive my CA online casino winning?

The speed at which you can receive your winnings from top recommended gambling sites in California varies by the banking method selected. Payouts can range from within 24 hours to up to two weeks. Specifically, cryptocurrency transactions are the fastest, taking less than 24 hours, while credit/debit cards and e-wallets can take between 1 to 7 business days. Bank transfers typically take 3 to 10 business days, and paper checks can take 1 to 2 weeks.

Is it likely for CA to regulate online gambling?

Yes, California lawmakers are more than interested in creating a new source of income for the state via online gambling. However, negotiating the shape of the new bill is very hard and time-consuming, as the Californian land-based gambling operators and other interest groups proved to be unwilling to compromise and reach an agreement that’d be acceptable for every party involved.

There’s currently a measure on the November 2022 ballot to legalize online sports betting in the state. If approved, that will pave the way for negotiations about legalizing online poker and casinos.

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