Best California Online Casinos in 2024

Enjoy the excitement at the top California online casinos! Grab huge bonuses, indulge in thrilling games, and experience endless fun.

This overview of California's online gambling laws delves into the status of real-money gaming in California.

While this type of gambling isn't currently accessible to Californians, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy slots and table games – we'll also help you navigate the intricacies of social gaming sites and sweepstakes laws, providing insights into the top online casino options for California residents.

choose among the top online casinos in California to enjoy all your beloved casino games from the comfort of your home. Our guides are here to show you how you can access essential games from top-notch providers.

Here are the most important factors to consider in order to make informed choices while gambling online in California:

Welcome Bonuses

Kickstart your gaming adventure at any top California online casino with a robust welcome package to boost your initial play. One of the highlights of online gambling in California is the generous welcome bonuses on offer. Our curated list features only the most generous ous US online casinos with the best welcome bonuses.

Game Selection

California online casinos boast an extensive game library, a feature often unmatched by land-based casinos. From slots to poker and beyond, many games are available online. We meticulously evaluate each online casino to ensure you have access to the best titles from reputable operators through our recommendations. 

Return to Player (RTP) Rates

Getting familiar with the return to player (RTP) rates of different California casino games is essential for maximizing your winning potential. Our recommendations for the top online casinos in California are also based on their favorable long-term RTP percentages. Our expertise lies in identifying platforms that offer fair RTP rates, and we're here to share that insight with you.

Mobile Compatibility 

In recent years, many leading California online casinos have optimized their mobile platforms or introduced native apps to meet this demand. Our casino reviews feature only the most mobile-friendly operators, ensuring a fast and seamless gaming experience. 

Promotions and Loyalty Programs

Regular bonuses and loyalty rewards are significant attractions for frequent players at the best California online casinos. These offers often extend beyond the initial welcome bonus, keeping players engaged and loyal. We narrow down the top California online casinos by comparing loyalty programs, promotions, and VIP benefits. 

Security and Licensing

Trustworthiness is paramount in the online gaming world. We meticulously verify California online casinos' licensing and security measures to ensure player safety, and our recommendations only include reputable casinos with robust security protocols, valid certifications, and legitimate licenses. 

Banking Methods

A reliable banking system is an integral part of a seamless online casino experience. Our recommended providers offer various trusted payment options and streamline deposit and withdrawal processes. We've researched the various banking methods available at California online casinos, allowing you to choose operators that excel in banking services. 

Customer Support

Responsive and dependable customer support is indispensable for any online casino. Players should feel confident reaching out for assistance on essential matters. Rest assured, our recommended online casinos provide top-notch customer care as we thoroughly assess their support offerings.

Currently, real-money online casinos are not permitted in California. However, there are still attractive options available for California playersin the form of sweepstakes and social casinos which are, happily, entirely legal in the state.

Here are our favorite sites for California players: 

California Online Casinos Likely To Enter the Market Once Legal

Given recent regulatory shifts at the national level, traditional real-money online casinos might soon emerge in California. It isn’t far-fetched to speculate that California could follow suit with other jurisdictions that have legalized conventional online casino games for real money.

Granted, due to California's strict regulations on all forms of gambling, this assumption may not hold – but if regulations were to change, these are the operators that would likely enter the California market:

• BetMGM
• BetRivers
• FanDuel
• PlayStar
• Betway
• Bet365
• Borgata
• Party

While social casinos in California don't offer cash prizes unless you're redeeming sweeps, they still provide plenty of online casino bonuses. Social online casinos in California offer just as many promotions as their real-money counterparts, if not more. 

There are several ways to guarantee you never miss an online casino bonus:

1. Sign up for an online California sweepstakes casino to claim welcome bonuses. Some may require logging in daily for a few days after creating your account. 
2. For discounts and purchase offers, simply purchase the advertised bonus package. 
3. Participate in special social media giveaways by commenting on Facebook or Instagram posts. 
4. Opt into other promotions from the casino's promotions page if necessary. 

Social casinos in California offer various free casino games to suit your preferences, whether you enjoy spinning the reels or testing your poker face.

Online Slots in California 

Online slot machines offer immersive graphics and innovative features, making them among the most captivating casino games. With game developers continually releasing new slots in various themes, players have thousands of options. You can select a game based on its variance and RTP (return to player) percentage, making for a versatile gaming experience suitable for players of all budgets. 
 

Online Blackjack in California 

Blackjack boasts the highest RTP percentage of any casino game (excluding craps), making it incredibly popular among US bettors. The objective is straightforward: beat the dealer to 21 without exceeding that number. Blackjack is a staple of California casinos with its simple rules, high RTP, and wide betting limits. 

Online Roulette in California 

Roulette, the ultimate game of chance, is available at nearly every online casino in the US. Some tribal casinos offer 'California Roulette', which uses a deck of cards instead of the traditional ball and wheel. Alternatively, players can enjoy the classic game at social casino sites, as the California Gambling Control Commission does not regulate them. 

Online Poker in California 

As the birthplace of Texas Hold'em, California has contributed to the rapid growth of online poker, making it one of the most popular casino games in the US. Until real-money online poker is legal in California, players can practice their skills at free-to-play California online poker sites like the WSOP social poker casino. 
 

Online Video Poker in California 

Video poker combines online poker's strategic decision-making with slot machines' fast-paced randomness. Many social casinos offer video poker games, providing a beginner-friendly alternative to traditional online poker. 

Online Casino Live Dealer in California 

Although less common than free-to-play slots, some social casino sites offer free live dealer games. These games are streamed live in HD from studios worldwide, recreating the authentic atmosphere of a land-based casino from the comfort of your own home. 

Access to top-notch casino software can greatly enhance your chances of winning. We meticulously assess the finest casino applications available for iOS and Android, focusing on their security features, to help you navigate California's online gambling scene. 
 
There is a plethora of mobile casino apps catering to California residents, and the quality of your gaming session heavily relies on the app you choose.  
 
Below, we delve into the distinctions and similarities between desktop casino platforms and mobile apps, as well as some critical features of California casino apps.

Safety of California Gambling Apps 

Like all online gambling platforms, developers of the top California casino apps prioritize player safety, and work to ensure a secure gaming environment through robust encryption and reliable transaction methods. 
 
Any app worth using will be equipped with solid security features. This comparison between three of the best apps for California online casino gambling can help you understand what to look for: 

California Mobile Casino Apps vs. Desktop Experiences

Whether playing on a laptop or mobile app, our recommended providers ensure data security through encrypted transactions and secure logins. The ideal platform for you depends on your preferred method of accessing online casinos. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of using a desktop computer versus an app for online casino gaming below.

To access top California online casinos on the go, follow a simple process to download and install a mobile app. This guide ensures a smooth installation process.

1. Find the download link: Locate the App Store compatible with your mobile operating system (iOS or Android) to download the app.
2. Click the Download button: Simply click the Download/Install button to acquire the casino app on your device.
3. Android users - permit installations from unknown sources: Android devices may require permission to install apps from unknown sources, although this step is unnecessary for iOS.
4. Open the app: Once installed, access thrilling casino games with a tap on your device and immerse yourself in the excitement of online gaming.

How to Sign Up for a California Online Casino

Signing up for an account at California online casinos is straightforward, especially at sweepstakes sites. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Website: Head to the website or app of your preferred sweepstakes casino.
2. Click "Register" or a similar option to start creating your account.
3. Enter Required Details: Provide the necessary information, such as your first and last name, email address, and password, to meet the site's criteria.
4. Verify Your Email: If necessary, verify your email address by clicking the verification link sent to you.
5. Consider Alternative Sign-Up Methods: Some sites offer quicker and simpler sign-up options, such as linking your Facebook or Google account.

Once you've completed these steps, you'll receive your welcome bonus and can start playing immediately. However, to redeem Sweeps Coins for cash prizes in the future, you'll need to go through additional verification steps. This typically involves confirming your identity with a passport, state ID, or driver's license.

You can access various popular US deposit options when gambling at an online casino in California. While social casinos don't offer real money winnings, no withdrawal methods are available. However, once online casino real money gambling becomes legal in California, you'll have access to a range of swift and secure payment methods to withdraw your winnings. Here are the top payment options:

California's gambling laws encompass a range of activities, including casino gaming. Individuals aged 18 and above within the state can partake in slot machines and table games at tribal casinos. Furthermore, parimutuel betting on horse racing, participation in the State Lottery, and cardrooms are permitted. Although Daily Fantasy Sports lacks regulation, they remain lawful, offering access to residents.

As of this composition, online gambling and legalized online sports betting were not sanctioned in California. However, this circumstance is poised for change, given the shifting landscape of online gambling laws across the United States. Notably, social casinos offer a legal avenue for online gaming within the state. Additionally, through sweepstakes casinos online, Californian players can vie for prizes, including cash rewards, in compliance with the law.

• Launch Date: NA
• Legal Gambling Age in CA: 18
• Top 3 Casino Brands: High 5, McLuck, Pulsz

Is Online Gambling Legal in California?

Currently, online gambling with real money, including online casinos, poker, and sportsbooks, is not legal in California. The prospect of legalizing sports betting awaits state voters' decision on Propositions 26 and 27, and the question of real-money online casino gambling will require yet another wait. Fortunately, avenues for legal play persist through social and sweepstakes online casinos. 

California Legal Gambling Age

The designated gambling age in California is 18 for activities such as parimutuel horse betting, participation in the state lottery, and bingo games. Although individuals can legally wager at casinos from the age of 18, many establishments enforce a minimum age of 21 for entry. Tribal casinos on Native American reservations exclusively host legal casino gambling in the state, with each casino subject to regulation by its respective tribe. Consequently, tribes retain the authority to establish higher minimum age limits for their casinos. 

Are There Taxes on Gambling Winnings in California?

In California, all gambling winnings, except those from the State Lottery, are subject to taxation. Earnings below $5,000 incur a flat 24% tax rate. Any winnings exceeding this threshold or surpassing 300 times the original bet necessitate reporting on a W4 tax withholding form. Declaration of winnings is mandatory on an IRS Form 1040, alongside any itemized losses.

How are California Casinos Regulated?

Real-money online gambling is still illegal in California, with the exception of land-based tribal venues regulated by the respective tribes. Free social and sweepstakes casinos are Californians’ sole online gambling options. Unlike traditional online casinos, these free platforms do not require state-approved licenses for operation in the US. However, to ensure consumer protection and fair play, these casinos are subject to regulation by oversight groups and external testing agencies like eCOGRA.

Despite the absence of real-money casinos or sports betting, the state offers diverse options: numerous poker rooms, retail casinos, a State Lottery, Daily Fantasy Sports, horse racing, and more. Consequently, residents must engage in responsible gaming practices. 
 
The Golden State is committed to promoting responsible gambling and offers resources for problem gamblers. California's resources for responsible gambling include:

• Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
• Office of Problem Gambling: Provides treatment and prevention programs in California.
• California Health and Human Services Agency: Responsible for health and addiction services in the state.
• National Council on Problem Gambling California: Offers additional resources and statistics for California residents.

Some states in the US don't allow the best online casinos to work there. Each state decides which online casinos can operate there and which ones can't.

Check out the guides for casinos in different US states below.

While online gambling options are scarce in California, the state offers numerous land-based options. Here are our top picks from the dozens of available land-based Native American casinos: 

Finding the best online casinos is essential for those looking to gamble in California and seeking a top-notch experience. We've thoroughly reviewed each site, highlighting its unique features and outstanding welcome bonuses to help you choose the perfect online gambling option in California. With games and promotions from the state's top online casinos showcased here, every type of player will indeed find something enjoyable.