When you think of Florida, you picture Disney, beaches, and nonstop sunshine—and honestly, I think the same. But the sports betting scene gets me just as hyped. So I figured, why not fly down, grab a rental, and tour the top sportsbooks with a little online play? The fact that some are inside 4-star guitar-shaped hotels didn’t hurt either.
| Bovada | Top choice overall – 75% welcome bonus |
| BetOnline | Amazing market variety |
| MyBookie | Top live betting site |
| BUSR | Excellent racebook |
| EveryGame | Oldest online sportsbook |
| BetAnything | Extensive sports betting lines |
| Sportsbetting.ag | Best for Bitcoin payouts |
| XBet | Convenient mobile betting |
| BetWhale | Top esports site |
| BetUS | Generous welcome bonus |
| Voltage Bet | Intuitive bet builder |
| Thunderpick | Top pick for anonymous play |
| MyStake | Best for soccer leagues |
| Jackbit | Huge rakeback |
In this article, I’ll show you what I was up to over the few days I spent exploring Florida. I’ll let you know how I got on at the biggest sportsbooks and how I fared with online sports betting.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Florida?
Sports betting in Florida? Yep, it’s legal, but there’s a catch. You can place bets at any of the six Seminole casino venues around the state, thanks to a compact that was reinstated in 2023. That means you’ll find retail sportsbooks tucked into luxury hotels like the Hard Rock in Tampa and Hollywood.
Florida online sports betting is a bit trickier. Many folks (myself included) try out reputable international sportsbooks that accept Florida players and offer some seriously good odds and promos.
What I Did in Florida
Before I visited the sportsbooks, I checked out a few bars and restaurants in North Florida. I tried the famous Conch Fritters, caught a college sports game, and hit the beach.
Then, I visited the two main sportsbooks in this state – the Hard Rock Sportsbook in Tampa and the Hard Rock Sportsbook in Hollywood.
Both are part of the famous Native American Seminole Hard Rock hotel chain and while they share the same brand, the difference in location adds a unique twist to each experience.
While these retail sports betting venues were the highlights of my trip, I also dipped into Florida’s growing online sports betting scene. I tested popular sites like Bovada and BetOnline.
Let’s take a closer look at each sportsbook and see how they stack up.
Latest Info on Sports Betting in Florida
While I was visiting Florida, the local sports scene was on fire, and yes, it definitely added to the betting buzz.
April 7, 2025: Florida Gators beat Houston Cougars 65–63 in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship, completing a 12-point second-half comeback to win their third national title and first since 2007.
March 22, 2025: Coco Gauff beat Maria Sakkari 6–2, 6–4 in the third round of the Miami Open, advancing to the Round of 16 and signaling a return to form after a rocky start to the season.
March 29, 2025: The Tampa Bay Lightning secured a 5–3 victory over the New York Islanders. Nikita Kucherov led the team with a goal and three assists, helping the Lightning win their third consecutive game.
March 25, 2025: The Miami Heat dominated the Golden State Warriors with a 112–86 win. Bam Adebayo scored 27 points, and Tyler Herro added 20, leading the Heat to a convincing victory.
March 3, 2025: The Florida Panthers edged out the Tampa Bay Lightning 2–1, ending Tampa Bay’s eight-game winning streak. Aleksander Barkov scored twice in the second period, and goalie Sergei Bobrovsky made 28 saves to secure the win for the Panthers.
History of Online Sports Betting in Florida
Florida’s path to legal sports betting has been, well, a bit of a rollercoaster.
Back in 2021, sports betting got a brief launch, but the legal tide quickly turned. A court challenge ruled that the state’s agreement with the Seminole Tribe violated federal regulations. So everything got paused.
Fast forward to late 2023, and a federal appeals court gave the green light again, restoring the Tribe’s exclusive rights to run both retail and online betting. The Hard Rock Casino and Sportsbook was back in business, and just like that, Florida found itself among the biggest states offering legal sports betting.
Right now, it’s still the Seminole Tribe running the show. Other operators are sitting on the sidelines for now, but if new legislation opens things up, we could see a lot more competition on the horizon.
Legal drama aside, there’s no denying Florida is one of the most exciting states to bet in. Big teams, passionate fans, and that tropical vibe? Hard to beat.
And Florida’s not the only state with legal drama — California sports betting has had its own twists and turns, and it’s still very much a work in progress.
Online Sportsbooks I Tried in Florida
As fun as it is to visit a brick-and-mortar sportsbook and place sports bets, you can also sign up for online sportsbooks in Florida.
I did exactly this to see how they compared to the ‘real thing,’ and I soon learned that there are plenty of safe, legit, and licensed options for sports betting in Florida. From full-featured betting apps to online platforms, you can wager on all your favorite sports and pick up some great bonuses along the way.
Bovada – Best Overall for Florida Sports Betting
I’d already heard of Bovada before I signed up, so I was expecting to have a good time. I locked in my 75% welcome bonus and picked out a few props using the Props Builder tool, which, I have to say, made props betting much smoother than at the Hard Rock Sportsbook.
I was able to view a wide range of player, team, and game props at a glance for sports like the NBA, the MLB, and the NFL, which is like manna from heaven for a data-driven sports bettor like me who always thinks LeBron will record over 25.5 points.
Bovada is stacked with real money betting tools, but the neatest feature is the request-a-bet feature. If you’d like to place a bet but can’t see it on the betting site, you can ask Bovada if they’ll give you odds for it.
Speaking of odds, legend has it that this Florida sports betting site offers reduced juice. Gotta say, I didn’t get any reduced juice myself, but the odds were still excellent.
A lack of a reload bonus was disappointing since I’d come to expect these kinds of things by now, but you get to rack up loyalty points anytime you place a sports bet here. You get more points for parlays, and it doesn’t even matter if your bet loses – you still get the points.
Overall, this site for sports betting in Florida does all it can to tempt bettors away from brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. If you like props betting and don’t mind missing out on a reload bonus, it’s a good choice.
BetOnline – Amazing Market Variety
I was stoked to read that BetOnline is over 25 years old, making it even older than the brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in Florida. Does its reputation precede it?
Well, I have to say that I was impressed with the slick and modern interface. It works just as well as the Hard Rock Sportsbook app for Florida mobile sports betting, and signing up is a piece of cake.
There are also more bet types here than at brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. I personally didn’t place bets, teasers, or round robins, but these are all available if you ever need them. That’s why it’s also one of the top online sportsbooks in Texas.
On the other hand, BetOnline doesn’t offer alternative FL sports betting lines, which was a little disappointing for a meticulous bettor like myself.
This Florida sports betting site stood out compared to a land-based sportsbook because of its same-game parlay option. Essentially, you can build a bet around the same game (such as the Lakers vs the Cavaliers). This type of thing isn’t widely available even with online sports betting, so it’s pretty rad that this Florida sports betting site offers it.
A slight area of concern is that you can’t withdraw via credit or debit card, which took me by surprise. All other withdrawal options, including P2P and cryptocurrencies, are super reliable, though.
Would I recommend BetOnline? For parlays, early lines, and betting contests, it is one of the best Florida sports betting sites out there.
MyBookie – Top Live Betting Site
I’d heard good things about MyBookie before I gave it a try, and it didn’t disappoint. Since launching in 2014, this FL online sportsbook has quickly built a reputation as a top spot for live sports betting in Florida. If you love betting live on games as they unfold, MyBookie makes it easy with updated odds available around the clock for sports like NFL, soccer, tennis, and golf.
Beyond live betting, MyBookie covers plenty of pre-match action, with markets available for over 15 different sports, including extensive coverage of college events.
On the bonus front, MyBookie welcomes new Florida bettors with a 100% match bonus worth up to $1,000 with a 10x rollover when you deposit with crypto. Additionally, you can grab the handy 55% crypto reload bonus up to $5,000, although the minimum deposit of $100 is a bit steep compared to some other sites I’ve tried.
Like most online betting sites in Florida, payment methods are decent, although MyBookie primarily accepts traditional methods like VISA, MasterCard, and Person-to-Person, which could be limiting. Thankfully, crypto options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Solana are supported, with low minimum deposits of just $20. Withdrawals were fast and reliable in my experience.
A standout feature I particularly liked at this Florida sports betting site was their early cashout option, allowing me to secure profits before events finished, something I often wished I could do at a land-based Florida sportsbook. Plus, their daily odds boosts and betting insights add a nice touch.
BUSR – Excellent Racebook
When I first tried BUSR for sports betting in Florida, I was immediately drawn to their standout feature: their focus on horse racing. If you’re into horse racing, this place has you covered with action from over 30 different racetracks during peak season, including the option to place popular wagers like trifectas and exactas.
But this Florida sports betting site isn’t just about horse racing. Unlike some other Florida betting sites I’ve visited, it also gives plenty of love to college sports teams. You’ll find solid betting markets for college football and basketball, alongside a good coverage of other major sports.
As far as bonuses go, this Florida sports betting site delivers a generous welcome offer that matches your first deposit 100% up to $1,500 plus 25 casino spins. The code for this bonus is 100SPORTS. On top of that, horse racing fans can snag an exclusive 20% cash bonus up to $1000 with the promo code WELCOME20.
Depositing funds at BUSR was straightforward enough, with options ranging from credit and debit cards to crypto like Bitcoin and Litecoin. Crypto payments are processed quickly (usually within a few hours), while traditional methods take a couple of days to clear. Overall, if horse racing and college sports betting are your thing, BUSR is a solid pick for Florida sports betting.
EveryGame – Oldest Online Sportsbook
As it turns out, EveryGame is even older than BetOnline. It’s operated for over 30 years and is widely known as one of the world’s oldest Florida sports betting sites – trustworthy and reputable.
This online Florida sportsbook is a good alternative to placing futures bets at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook. You’ve got just as many options and can bet on markets like Conference and Division winners, the World Cup winners, the Super Bowl winners – and many more, many months in advance.
Other than that, EveryGame – like a couple of other Florida betting sites – hosts betting contests, including a $5k Hot Hoops Challenge and a $5k tennis betting contest. You don’t get these kinds of things at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook, and they’re a fun and interactive way to pass the time.
Deposit and bet limits are tight, and you might not be able to place the same big bets that you can at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook (if you’re into that sort of thing). But it is recommended for everyone who’s up for some fun and especially wants to place futures bets.
Best Online Betting Sites in Florida – My Ranking Criteria
When I was testing out Florida sportsbooks, I wanted more than just a flashy homepage or a few bonus bets. I needed online betting sites that were smooth, safe, and packed with the same action I’d find in a buzzing sportsbook lounge.
That’s why I came up with a few benchmarks to help me figure out which betting sites in Florida were really worth spending time (and money) on. Here’s what I looked at:
Sport Coverage
If I’m logging in to place bets, I want options. And I don’t just mean NFL and NBA betting — I mean everything from college football to golf, tennis, and even smaller markets like table tennis or darts if the mood hits. The best Florida betting sites online gave me all that and more. Yes, I’m thinking daily fantasy sports, too — because I like to mix it up now and then.
That said, if you ever find yourself in Tennessee or just following one of their teams, you can find that same depth of coverage from the top Tennessee sports betting sites as well.
Competitive Odds
Odds are where the money is, so I always compare lines before locking in a bet. Whether I was backing the Heat or hoping the Dolphins wouldn’t break my heart again, I needed to know I was getting good value. The top sites usually offered sharper odds than Florida sports gambling spots like the Hard Rock, which was a pleasant surprise.
Availability in Florida
The Florida sports betting case (yep, the one tied to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act) is why the Seminole Tribe runs the show for now. That means Florida Hard Rock Bet is the only legal local option — but trusted international sites still work just fine if you know where to look. Before I recommended anything, I made sure it worked smoothly here, legal twists and all.
If you’re traveling through the Southeast, it’s also worth checking the current status of South Carolina sports betting — the rules there are a whole different story.
Bonuses
Look, I’m not gonna say no to free money. I love a good welcome bonus — but reloads, cashback deals, and boosted odds were what really kept me coming back. The best FL online sportsbooks toss out bonus bets just for placing parlays or betting on local games, which is perfect when you’re following Florida sports teams or eyeing a sneaky college sports underdog.
Safety
Every sports betting Florida site I tried needed to be fully licensed and trustworthy. I checked for encryption, clean reputations, and real player reviews before depositing a dime. If I wouldn’t trust it with my money, it didn’t make the list.
Banking
Nothing kills the vibe faster than slow payouts or clunky deposit screens. I tested each site’s cashier myself, including crypto, cards, and P2P, to see how fast and easy it really was. The top sites for online sports betting in Florida let me fund my account in minutes and cash out just as fast.
Land-Based Sportsbooks I Tried in Florida
As I said, I couldn’t resist checking out a few real-life sportsbooks across Florida. Let me walk you through my experience.
First Sportsbook I Tested – Hard Rock Sportsbook in Tampa
Florida’s Hard Rock Sportsbook is based in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel on Orient Road in Tampa’s heart (and heat). The hotel is a luxurious 4-star destination with pools and spas. Its sleek design and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination in the area.
I’d never been to Tampa before, but as I arrived under the blazing midday sun, the vibrant energy of the hotel caught my attention immediately. Its polished exterior reflected the sunlight and the bold design had a real presence – classic, powerful, and unmistakably cool. It gave me instant Johnny Cash vibes, and I couldn’t help but think, “Yeah, I could stay here for a while.”
First Impressions
Walking into the sportsbook, I was greeted by a cacophony of sounds – the hum of conversations, the clinking of cocktail glasses, and the unmistakable roar of a crowd reacting to a game on one of the many LED screens.
With a swagger, I passed by a few bars and lounges, where people of all backgrounds – lone businessmen, young couples, old friends – were relaxing, drinking cocktails, having a beer, and having a good time.
One guy even tipped his glass my way as though he was sure I was gonna win my bets.
I rubbed my hands together and knew today was gonna be a good day. What can I say? The place was very me. “Let’s have some fun,” I thought with a confident grin.
Betting Options and Features
The sportsbook can initially overwhelm you with its myriad LED TV screens showing all the live action. When I got there, the Celtics were playing an NBA game while the Raiders were involved in some NFL action.
Everyone seemed hypnotized by it all – pretty cool. I began to wonder how much money was riding on these games. Who would go home a winner, and who would go home a loser?
I was also happy that there didn’t seem to be any dress code. Casual dress was the order of the day, and many people were milling about in t-shirts and shorts. Plenty of folks proudly repped their favorite NBA teams with jerseys on display.
There were plenty of tables with four chairs each, and while many were already occupied, there were still many places where I could sit down, think over my bets, or watch the live games.
I could also order a drink and some food here and suffer through my shrimp as the Heat played with my heart and wallet. Damn you, Jimmy Butler.
There was a real buzz in the air – a real tingling of excitement shared by me and my fellow Florida sports bettors. Many were glued to the screens or their phones, no doubt analyzing their next moves. Others stood in pairs, chatting animatedly and debating their wagers.
After a while, I realized I wasn’t sure where to place my bets. I asked someone nearby, and he pointed toward a large table in the middle of the room. “That’s where the kiosks are,” he said.
Sure enough – 34 self-service kiosks lined up and ready for action. Whether you find this setup convenient or impersonal probably depends on your style. I prefer a bit of human interaction, so I was also happy to see eight betting windows. These aren’t open around the clock, though, which might explain why I’d missed them initially.
Alternatively, you can download the Florida mobile sports betting app to track betting lines, but you can’t use it to place a bet inside the sportsbook.
What Can You Bet On?
In terms of what you can bet on here, there’s no shortage of options. As you’d expect, you can bet on all the major American sports, including the NFL, the NBA, the MLB, and NASCAR. College sports betting is also available.
You can bet in-play on games that have already started, and I appreciated how quick the tellers at the betting window were at placing my live bets. They knew that every second counted, though each time I went up, they reminded me that I could always use the self-service kiosks if I wanted.
You can choose from a wide variety of markets for betting in Florida, including the moneyline, the point spread, and the totals, as well as place parlays and futures bets. However, I was slightly disappointed that college props weren’t available. It was a letdown, especially since I had a bet in mind – and wouldn’t you know it, that bet ended up winning. Doh!
Overall Impressions
When I walked out into the cool night air in Tampa after my session, there was a gentle breeze. The vibrant lights of the hotel illuminated the area and created an inviting nighttime ambiance.
More people were entering the building than leaving, and I wondered if I should walk back in and place more bets! That’s how excited I was.
Alas, I headed to my room, knowing I’d had a good time but that it was time to call it a night. I’d placed a few in-play bets, given myself some hope with a few futures bets that wouldn’t be settled for another week, and left with $50 profit while waiting on the outcome of an evening NBA game.
Parking was a breeze, and leaving the next day to rejoin Tampa’s busy streets was just as easy. After enjoying a meal at one of the Hard Rock’s restaurants, I was ready to head to my next destination. Ultimately, I’d recommend Florida’s Hard Rock Sportsbook to anyone who enjoys a classic bookie’s lively, hustle-and-bustle vibe but prefers it with the added luxury of 4-star amenities.
Second Sportsbook I Tested – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood is nestled in South Florida, roughly a two-hour drive from Orlando. It’s conveniently located near downtown Miami and just minutes from the beach.
As I approached the iconic guitar-shaped building, I couldn’t help but take a moment to appreciate its size and shine. It rose high against the skyline, its sleek facade catching the sunlight and giving off a warm, golden glow. It wasn’t just a building – it felt like a symbol of excitement and indulgence, setting the tone for what I hoped would be a memorable experience.
When I stepped out of the car, the salty breeze from the ocean mixed with the faint smell of coffee and sunscreen. There was a buzz in the air, and seeing the guitar-shaped hotel up close made the moment feel a little surreal. The design was striking but inviting, and I couldn’t wait to see what the inside had in store.
Surfing could wait – there were bets to place first.
First Impressions
Make no mistake, the Hard Rock Hotel is a stunning site, and its iconic guitar shape infused the entire experience with a unique energy. I could feel the vibes as I made my way inside, passing by people who were clearly here for a good time.
I knew there was a casino alongside the sportsbook, so I couldn’t resist popping my head in to look. As expected, rows upon rows of slot machines stretched across the floor, their colorful lights and jingling sounds creating a lively atmosphere. Players sat intently in front of the screens, each one chasing the dream of hitting it big.
Before long, I found myself in the sportsbook, which felt like stepping into Times Square. LED TVs covered nearly every surface, and the crowd was just as bustling. Some screens broadcast live games, others featured pre- and post-game interviews with players and coaches, and a few displayed expert analysis to help Florida sports bettors strategize their next moves.
Live scores were everywhere to keep you up-to-date with all the action, too, while the latest bonuses were plastered on the walls. Would you be able to ignore that $100 ‘no regret first bet’ deal? I couldn’t.
No Live Betting Windows
I decided this time to give the self-service kiosks a whirl, mainly because this Hard Rock sportsbook doesn’t have betting windows. The minimum bet when using one of these is $20, which for some might be a tad high.
The kiosks were a bit tricky to figure out at first, and I’ll admit there was some sweating involved as seasoned bettors rushed past me with practiced ease. Unfortunately, by the time I got the hang of it, I’d already missed a betting opportunity – the market had closed.
It wasn’t a big deal in the end. Once I got the hang of it, I was caught up in the excitement around me. The buzz of the sportsbook took over, and I started placing my bets with the kind of confidence that comes from just enjoying the moment.
What Can You Bet On?
At the Hard Rock Sportsbook, you’ll find a wide range of betting options to keep you entertained. Pre-game betting covers all the major sports, including the NFL, NBA, soccer, tennis, and more.
If horse racing or greyhound racing is more your speed, you’ll be glad to know those are available too.
College sports betting is available but it’s the same deal as it was in Tampa – you can’t place props bets.
Overall Impressions
I have plenty of praise for the Hard Rock Sportsbook in Hollywood, which shares much of the same appeal as its Tampa counterpart. The buzzing atmosphere of the 24/7 sports lounge was infectious, making it the kind of place where time seems to fly by.
What really stood out to me, though, was the iconic guitar-shaped building. As I stepped outside in the evening, the neon lights illuminated the structure, creating a striking silhouette against the night sky. The vibrant glow felt like a celebration of the energy and fun that defined my time there – a sight I won’t forget anytime soon.
The location is another strong point. Situated just outside Miami, it’s incredibly easy to find and makes for a convenient stop during any South Florida trip. That said, the popularity of the place was clear, as the parking lot was noticeably packed. While I didn’t have trouble finding a spot this time, I could see how it might be a challenge during peak hours.
As I drove off the next morning, with the city slowly waking up around me, I totaled my bets. I was $100 down overall – not bad for the experience and excitement the day brought. Plus, I had a little extra to look forward to with a futures bet riding on next week’s Knicks game. Here’s hoping Brunson doesn’t let me down!
Things I Learned on My Trip
I’ve had a lot of fun betting on sports in Florida and writing this article, even if, at times, things weren’t so smooth sailing.
But you know what? That’s all part of the experience. We live, we learn – and we share our wisdom.
So here are my general tips for if you decide to start betting on sports in Florida:
Set a Bankroll
This is a must. If you don’t set a bankroll, sports betting could quickly get out of control, and you might find yourself making multiple deposits before realizing you’ve overspent.
Setting a bankroll also helped me determine a staking strategy so that I didn’t go crazy and put all I had on the Bulls to win the fourth quarter.
A bankroll should be the precise amount you’ve set aside for sports betting purposes, and it’s important to fix it so that you don’t include cash that’s already been set aside for something else.
Ask for Help
As mentioned, I was overwhelmed when I first entered a Florida sportsbook. If I hadn’t asked for help, I’d probably still be trying to figure out how to use the self-service kiosks.
And if you think that everyone will be too busy focused on their bets to help you out, you’re wrong. Most people in a Florida sportsbook are only too happy to chat with you and lend a hand.
Watch the Live Action
The live action is there to entertain you, bringing you closer to your bets – you can see the action unfold as your bet turns into a winner or a loser.
However, I also recommend watching the live action to assist you with your next bet at the best online Florida sports betting site. After all, seeing what’s happening in a game gives you a better idea of what might happen next. This is essential for live betting.
So take advantage of the live streaming and use it to plot your in-play bets wisely.
Grab the Bonuses Online
The biggest difference between brick-and-mortar sportsbooks and online sports betting Florida sites is that you can claim bonuses online. These include welcome, reload, referral, and cashback bonuses.
A bonus is a way of boosting your bankroll and getting you back in the game, and they can be a godsend if you need some extra funds.
Just make sure to read the terms and conditions first, since all offers come with minimum deposit/bet requirements and wagering requirements.
Takeaway from My Visit to Florida
Personally? I love that Florida’s best sportsbooks are part of luxury hotels. They ooze class at every step. Even if you visit them for the electric atmosphere but get tempted to nibble, you’re still guaranteed a good time.
If I could, I’d do it all again, though this time, I’d probably plan my trip differently and give myself more time (maybe two days for each sportsbook).
I’d also probably time it during the NBA playoffs, which is my favorite time of the year to watch and bet on sports.
But besides that, there’s so much to enjoy in Florida. You’ve got the sun, the setting, and the tremendous sportsbooks. Win or lose, you’ll have a good time.
Sports & Leagues You Can Bet on at FL Sports Betting Sites
No matter where I was in Florida, soaking up the chaos at a sportsbook lounge or checking odds on my phone between bites of conch fritters, sports were always in the air. With passionate fans, nonstop games, and local teams that stir up serious loyalty, betting here feels more like a lifestyle than a hobby.
Here’s a rundown of the sports I had the most fun (and sometimes the most luck) betting on while exploring the Sunshine State:
NFL (National Football League)
For many Floridians, NFL Sundays are a sacred tradition. With the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Jacksonville Jaguars representing the state, football fans have plenty of local sports team options to support. Betting on NFL games is a favorite pastime in Florida, with options ranging from point spreads and moneylines to player prop bets and futures.
NBA (National Basketball Association)
Basketball fans in Florida can’t get enough of the NBA action, and with the Miami Heat competing at the highest level, there’s no shortage of excitement. Betting on NBA games allows fans to further engage with the sport, and online sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting options, including point totals, player performance props, and live in-game wagering.
And if you’re more of a Knicks diehard than a Heat fan, New York sports betting is live and loaded with action, too.
MLB (Major League Baseball)
As one of the most historic baseball states, Florida is home to the Miami Marlins and the Tampa Bay Rays. Betting on MLB games adds an extra layer of excitement to America’s favorite pastime. You can bet on moneylines, run totals, player statistics, and even the outcome of individual innings.
NHL (National Hockey League)
Hockey might not be the first sport that comes to mind in sunny Florida, but the Tampa Bay Lightning have been a dominant force in the NHL. Betting on NHL games allows fans to enjoy the fast-paced action even more, with options like puck line bets, over/under wagers, and live betting during games.
College Sports
Florida is home to numerous prestigious college sports programs, including the Florida Gators and Florida State Seminoles. College football and basketball are particularly popular among bettors, and you can wager on spreads, moneylines, and even prop bets related to college athletes’ performances.
Golf
With the abundance of golf courses and the prestigious tournaments held in Florida, golf betting has also gained popularity. Betting on events like The Masters or the Players Championship is a great way to combine your love for the game with the thrill of wagering.
Soccer
Soccer is a global sport, and Florida has its share of soccer fans. Whether it’s betting on MLS matches, international competitions, or major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, soccer fans can find a variety of options at the best Florida sports betting sites.
Florida Sports Betting – FAQ
Still got questions about sports betting in Florida? You’re not alone. Here’s a quick, friendly rundown of the things most people want to know before placing a bet in the Sunshine State.
Can You Bet Online in Florida?
Yes, you can bet online in Florida, but it’s limited. Online sports betting in Florida is currently limited to the Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock platform, following the reinstatement of their exclusive rights. Most residents use offshore betting sites, which accept Florida players and allow online wagering.
Is There a Dress Code at Florida Sportsbooks?
Not really. All that’s required is that you turn up reasonably well-dressed. Sportswear is allowed, and you can wear T-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops. If you want to wear your slacks, you could do that, too.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Because the sportsbooks in Florida are part of a hotel, there doesn’t seem to be a ‘downtime’ in traffic. These places get packed daily, so it’s essential that you’re not afraid of a bit of hustle and bustle.
That said, I’d also say it’s a smart idea to turn up when there is plenty of juicy sporting action on. This will give you something to bet on and something to watch on the TV screens.
Naturally, the weather might play a part, too, and if you’re risk-averse, you might want to avoid visiting during Hurricane Season, which peaks between mid-August and October.
How Much Should I Budget for a Sports Betting Trip to Florida?
Your travel expenses should include your gas (if you’re driving), flight tickets, and hotel accommodation. If you stay in the Hard Rock Hotel, rooms start from around $400, and there’s also a $25 daily resort fee if you’re just looking to visit the sportsbook (without staying in the hotel).
Then, of course, there’s your bankroll, which can be as much as you want (but no more than you can afford to lose).
My trip cost around $4,000, including my bankroll, accommodation, flight tickets, etc. You can also factor in any sightseeing you want to do.
What Sports Can I Bet On in Florida?
There’s no end to the sports you can bet on in Florida, with land-based sportsbooks offering markets for the NFL, the NBA, NASCAR, college sports, soccer, tennis, golf, and more.
You can also bet on horse racing, greyhound racing, motorsports, and combat sports, including boxing and the UFC.
What Bonuses Can I Claim at Online Sportsbooks in Florida?
If you prefer Florida online sports betting, you can claim a range of bonuses. I noticed that all the top-rated FL online sports betting sites offer new players a welcome bonus, which matches your first deposit with bonus funds.
You can also claim reload bonuses at some Florida online sportsbooks (though not all), while other deals I spotted include cashback, free bets, and referral bonuses.
Please read before you play:
- This content is meant for adults 21+ only.
- Gambling always comes with financial risk and can be addictive.
- Set clear limits and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Make sure online gambling is legal in your area before signing up.
- Need help? Free, confidential support is available anytime at 1‑800‑GAMBLER.
More info: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/