Surfing is rapidly evolving from a niche activity to a globally recognized sport thanks to high-level competitions like the World Surf League (WSL). WSL enjoys support from diverse regions thanks to its dynamic and strategically competitive events. Fans eager to capitalize on its unique opportunities should try sports betting. While legal sports betting in the US has increased since 2018, some states have yet to review their sports betting laws. Those that have legalized sports betting also have different laws, which may inconvenience or cost bettors. How, then, should bettors proceed? Let them begin by reviewing state-specific betting laws, guidelines, and regulations.
At NXTbets, we are committed to helping WSL fans, bettors, and enthusiasts improve their viewing, betting, or real-money gaming experience. We have comprehensive resources for WSL lovers, including real-time sports action data, insights, picks, and also a comprehensive guide to WSL DFS real money gaming. Join us as we discuss states with legal WSL betting, reputable betting platforms, and successful betting tips.
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What is the legal status of WSL betting in your state? Find out below if you live in an approved, DFS-only, or restricted state.
Approved State
States like Colorado, Nevada, and New Jersey have accommodating sports betting environments. You can bet on your favorite WSL event or competition through a licensed platform. Below are all the states with World Surf League betting markets:
Arizona
Kentucky
Maryland
Ohio
Washington
Illinois
Louisiana
Wyoming
Oregon
West Virginia
Connecticut
Kansas
Michigan
Pennsylvania
Colorado
Kansas
Maine
North Carolina
Tennessee
Nevada
New Jersey
DFS-Only States
Some states prohibit sports betting but allow real-money gaming, such as Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Residents create fantasy lineups or play Pick’em contests on platforms like FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and DraftKings DFS. Here is a list of DFS-only states:
Texas
California
Wisconsin
Georgia
Check whether your DFS platform supports World Surf League DFS gaming in the above locations.
Restricted States
States like Hawaii and Idaho prohibit both sports betting and fantasy sports options. Fans and enthusiasts in the two states must consider options outside sports betting or real-money gaming to interact deeply with WSL events.
Best States for WSL Betting
For most bettors, the US betting experience largely varies from one state to another. For example, some places have better promotions, while others have superior tax advantages. Here are a few states to settle on based on bonuses and betting tax reliefs:
Tax advantages: Most states have large betting tax disparities. While bettors pay less than 10% in some, others charge as high as 51%. For lower taxes, consider options like states with the lowest sports betting tax rates such as, Arizona (10%), Colorado (10%), Michigan (8.4%) and Iowa (6.75%).
Promotions and bonuses: Promotions and bonuses are mostly platform-specific. Always maximize your return potential by claiming them. Most New Jersey sportsbooks offer competitive cashback promotions and deposit bonuses for surfing events. Nevada betting platforms are famous for exquisite live betting markets and in-person betting experiences.
Top Platforms for WSL Betting
World Surf League betting is available on various platforms. However, to have an excellent betting experience, you must choose well. For the best results, we recommend DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM.
DraftKings users enjoy competitive odds and detailed markets.
FanDuel has an easy-to-navigate user interface and solid betting options.
Consider BetMGM for superior live and exotic betting. If your state prohibits sports betting but allows DFS, choose Underdog Fantasy for WSL DFS.
Increase your chances of winning your WSL bets by using the following strategies:
Uphold Responsible Bankroll Management
Bankroll management is a fundamental aspect of safe gaming. To achieve effective bankroll management:
Establish a clear WSL betting budget, set it aside, and stick to it.
Avoid chasing losses or exceeding your betting limits.
Divide your bankroll fairly by determining the most suitable amount to wager on each bet.
Avoid impulsive decision-making based on short-term outcomes.
Effective bankroll management promotes sustainable betting and reduces the risk of financial loss.
Understand Surf Conditions and Competitors
World Surf League (WSL) outcomes are heavily influenced by the natural environment and the surfer’s strengths. Therefore:
Consider how factors like tide patterns, wave size, and wind direction impact a surfer’s performance.
Study specific surf breaks to predict competitors with winning styles or experiences.
Analyze participants’ strengths, weaknesses, and performance history for valuable insights.
Remember to monitor real-time forecasts as you evaluate competitors and event conditions. Based on the anticipated environment or conditions, choose the most suitable competitors.
Engage in DFS Contests Where Betting is Restricted
As we have seen, some states prohibit sports betting while allowing residents to engage in alternatives like Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS).
Check whether your state allows real-money gaming. Places like Idaho do not.
Pick a reputable, regulated DFS platform like FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, or DraftKings DFS.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) offers an engaging, legal alternative to WSL sports betting.
Capitalize on State-Specific Promotions
Leverage promotions to maximize your bankroll and winning potential.
Most sportsbooks offer local, tailored promotions in qualifying states to attract and maintain users.
Common promotions include free bets, deposit matches, and enhanced odds.
Use relevant promotions and bonuses to lower your initial betting risk and maximize return potential. Check your sportsbook’s promotion page for ongoing offers and bonuses.
Stay Updated with Industry News and Trends
Monitoring surfing news and events is fundamental for informed betting. Consider the following resources to stay updated:
Read surfing-related publications and newsletters.
Follow athletes or WSL teams on social media platforms.
Monitor personal developments, injuries, equipment changes, and other factors that may influence surfer performance or event outcomes.
Conclusion
World Surf League (WSL) betting can be exciting. Most platforms offer diverse betting markets, allowing bettors to place competitive wagers on different events and competitions. However, you must understand the applicable legal framework for a safe, successful, and sustainable betting experience. Whether you reside in fully approved states like Nevada or DFS-only jurisdictions like Texas, your experience should be aligned with the relevant laws and guidelines.
How Can I Verify if WSL Betting is Legal in My State?
Refer to your sportsbook’s eligibility requirements, terms, and conditions, or contact your state’s gaming commission to verify your state’s WSL betting legality. Most licensed betting platforms restrict access in prohibited states, saving you from the long confirmation process.
Which Sportsbooks Offer WSL Betting?
For the best WSL betting experience, select reputable, regulated sportsbooks like Fanduel, DraftKings, CaesarsSportsbook, and BetMGM. Check event schedules and relevant offers ahead of every WSL competition. Use Underdog Fantasy for Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) gaming.
What is the Current Legal Status of Betting on the World Surf League in the US?
The legal status of WSL betting differs from state to state. The lifting of the federal sports betting ban in 2018 (by the Supreme Court) gave states the independence to legalize sports betting. WSL betting is mostly legal in states with regulated sports betting and licensed sportsbooks like Colorado and New Jersey. Check your sportsbooks and state-specific regulations to confirm availability.
What Are the Most Popular Types of Bets for WSL Events?
Common WSL betting options include outright winner bets, head-to-head matchups, and futures bets (predicting season champions). Most platforms also allow prop bets—for example, you can predict the highest wave score in a competition.
Do Sportsbooks Offer Live Betting for WSL?
Yes. Betting platforms like FanDuel and BetMGM have live betting options. Their users can place bets during the WSL competition. For example, bettors can predict the next wave score, who will win the ongoing heat, or whether a competitor will achieve a given aggregate. Note that not all events may qualify for live betting. Check out your sportsbook live betting section for more.
Can I Bet on WSL Events Even If My State Doesn’t Allow Sports Betting?
Consider Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) if your state does not allow sports betting. Unlike traditional betting, DFS falls under a different regulatory framework, making it legal in several jurisdictions. DFS platforms like Underground Fantasy and DraftKings DFS are common in states where sports betting is illegal.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
The World Surf League’s new 2026 format has turned late-season qualification into a race to keep chasing waves, with only 22 men and 14 women advancing to the postseason stop in Portugal and Cloud 9. Every Championship Tour surfer still has a season-ending chance at Pipeline, where results are worth 1.5 times a regular event and can still alter the rankings that help determine who qualifies for the 2027 tour.
Among the men still in the mix are Barron Mamiya, Alan Cleland, Mateus Herdy and Crosby Colapinto, who could move up enough to stay in contention. On the women’s side, Anat Lelior, Alyssa Spencer and Steph Gilmore are among the surfers who could break into the top 14 and secure a postseason berth.
The theme of chasing waves away from competition also showed up in recent surfer coverage. After an early loss at the Fiji Pro, Jack Robinson stayed in Fiji and surfed Cloudbreak and Restaurants, saying he felt like “little Jack” again after surfing with local surfers. John John Florence’s latest vlog followed life aboard the Vela, where he found “one perfect little right” and showed the planning, weather timing and logistics involved in hunting waves in remote locations.
Eight Australians will compete on this year’s men’s World Surf League Championship Tour after five — George Pittar, Oscar Berry, Morgan Cibilic, Callum Robson and Liam O’Brien — secured qualification at the final Challenger Series event at Merewether Beach in Newcastle. For most it marks a return to the CT, with Oscar Berry’s finish described as a breakthrough; Levi Slawson and Dimitri Poulos also pushed close to qualification at Newcastle.
Australia has not produced a men’s world champion since Mick Fanning in 2013, and Brazilian surfers largely dominated men’s world surfing over the past decade, with Hawaiian John John Florence a notable exception. Organizers say the expanded Australian contingent brings proven firepower to the Tour even if not every qualifier is viewed as an outright title favorite, and combined with a revived full-year points system the influx of qualifiers could make the title race more open and increase expectations for an Australian resurgence. Liam O’Brien singled out Jack Robinson and Ethan Ewing as the Australians most likely to end the title drought under the revived system.
Liam O’Brien became the fifth Australian man to qualify through this season’s Challenger Series after a shaky Round of 64 heat that left him nervously awaiting his fate. He is preparing for his fifth full CT season and said he does not set “massive goals,” remaining unsure exactly what to expect from the upcoming year. O’Brien also released a 10-minute surf edit titled “Amalgam” that stitches together clips from South America, heavy slabs in Western Australia, footage from Cyclone Alfred and a solo run at XL Burleigh, spotlighting his precise forehand rail work and making a case that he can contend for and win CT events.
The KwaZulu-Natal North coast trades dolphin watching for world-class surfing this week as the Challenger Series comes to town. Matthew McGillivray steals the headlines as he tops the WSL Ballito Pro pre-event odds, 680 miles up the coast from where he learned to surf. Sally Fitzgibbons leads the women’s charge coming off two finals in …
Caity Simmers said her surfing has evolved from a style built on technique and timing into one with more power, while she continues to rely on creativity and reading waves. The 18-year-old, who won the 2024 world title and became the youngest woman ever to claim it, said she felt confident, stronger and grateful as the season went on.
Simmers said she first became interested in surfing around age 10 after her first contest, then spent time away from it with BMX, skating, scootering, dance and baseball before returning to the sport. She described herself as highly competitive and said her drive came partly from her family and partly from wanting to prove something to herself.
She said she stayed grounded by focusing on her relationships and the places surfing took her. At Punta Roca in El Salvador, she posted the event’s best heat total at 16.50 before losing to Tyler Wright in the quarterfinals.
Which States Can You Bet on World Surf League?
Surfing is rapidly evolving from a niche activity to a globally recognized sport thanks to high-level competitions like the World Surf League (WSL). WSL enjoys support from diverse regions thanks to its dynamic and strategically competitive events. Fans eager to capitalize on its unique opportunities should try sports betting. While legal sports betting in the US has increased since 2018, some states have yet to review their sports betting laws. Those that have legalized sports betting also have different laws, which may inconvenience or cost bettors. How, then, should bettors proceed? Let them begin by reviewing state-specific betting laws, guidelines, and regulations.
At NXTbets, we are committed to helping WSL fans, bettors, and enthusiasts improve their viewing, betting, or real-money gaming experience. We have comprehensive resources for WSL lovers, including real-time sports action data, insights, picks, and also a comprehensive guide to WSL DFS real money gaming . Join us as we discuss states with legal WSL betting, reputable betting platforms, and successful betting tips.
State-by-State Breakdown
What is the legal status of WSL betting in your state? Find out below if you live in an approved, DFS-only, or restricted state.
Approved State
States like Colorado, Nevada, and New Jersey have accommodating sports betting environments. You can bet on your favorite WSL event or competition through a licensed platform. Below are all the states with World Surf League betting markets:
Arizona
Kentucky
Maryland
Ohio
Washington
Illinois
Louisiana
Wyoming
Oregon
West Virginia
Connecticut
Kansas
Michigan
Pennsylvania
Colorado
Kansas
Maine
North Carolina
Tennessee
Nevada
New Jersey
DFS-Only States
Some states prohibit sports betting but allow real-money gaming, such as Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Residents create fantasy lineups or play Pick’em contests on platforms like FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and DraftKings DFS. Here is a list of DFS-only states:
Check whether your DFS platform supports World Surf League DFS gaming in the above locations.
Restricted States
States like Hawaii and Idaho prohibit both sports betting and fantasy sports options. Fans and enthusiasts in the two states must consider options outside sports betting or real-money gaming to interact deeply with WSL events.
Best States for WSL Betting
For most bettors, the US betting experience largely varies from one state to another. For example, some places have better promotions, while others have superior tax advantages. Here are a few states to settle on based on bonuses and betting tax reliefs:
Top Platforms for WSL Betting
World Surf League betting is available on various platforms. However, to have an excellent betting experience, you must choose well. For the best results, we recommend DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM.
Consider BetMGM for superior live and exotic betting. If your state prohibits sports betting but allows DFS, choose Underdog Fantasy for WSL DFS.
For the latest WSL Championship Tour futures odds and insights, check out our Futures update.
Tips to Maximize Your WSL Betting
Increase your chances of winning your WSL bets by using the following strategies:
Uphold Responsible Bankroll Management
Bankroll management is a fundamental aspect of safe gaming. To achieve effective bankroll management:
Effective bankroll management promotes sustainable betting and reduces the risk of financial loss.
Understand Surf Conditions and Competitors
World Surf League (WSL) outcomes are heavily influenced by the natural environment and the surfer’s strengths. Therefore:
Remember to monitor real-time forecasts as you evaluate competitors and event conditions. Based on the anticipated environment or conditions, choose the most suitable competitors.
Engage in DFS Contests Where Betting is Restricted
As we have seen, some states prohibit sports betting while allowing residents to engage in alternatives like Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS).
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) offers an engaging, legal alternative to WSL sports betting.
Capitalize on State-Specific Promotions
Leverage promotions to maximize your bankroll and winning potential.
Use relevant promotions and bonuses to lower your initial betting risk and maximize return potential. Check your sportsbook’s promotion page for ongoing offers and bonuses.
Stay Updated with Industry News and Trends
Monitoring surfing news and events is fundamental for informed betting. Consider the following resources to stay updated:
Monitor personal developments, injuries, equipment changes, and other factors that may influence surfer performance or event outcomes.
Conclusion
World Surf League (WSL) betting can be exciting. Most platforms offer diverse betting markets, allowing bettors to place competitive wagers on different events and competitions. However, you must understand the applicable legal framework for a safe, successful, and sustainable betting experience. Whether you reside in fully approved states like Nevada or DFS-only jurisdictions like Texas, your experience should be aligned with the relevant laws and guidelines.
At NXTbets, we’d love to help you enjoy your betting experience responsibly, stay informed, and elevate it. Review our blogs to learn more about World Surf League betting, and subscribe to our newsletter for expert insights, timely updates, exclusive offers, and promotions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Refer to your sportsbook’s eligibility requirements, terms, and conditions, or contact your state’s gaming commission to verify your state’s WSL betting legality. Most licensed betting platforms restrict access in prohibited states, saving you from the long confirmation process.
For the best WSL betting experience, select reputable, regulated sportsbooks like Fanduel, DraftKings, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetMGM. Check event schedules and relevant offers ahead of every WSL competition. Use Underdog Fantasy for Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) gaming.
The legal status of WSL betting differs from state to state. The lifting of the federal sports betting ban in 2018 (by the Supreme Court) gave states the independence to legalize sports betting. WSL betting is mostly legal in states with regulated sports betting and licensed sportsbooks like Colorado and New Jersey. Check your sportsbooks and state-specific regulations to confirm availability.
Common WSL betting options include outright winner bets, head-to-head matchups, and futures bets (predicting season champions). Most platforms also allow prop bets—for example, you can predict the highest wave score in a competition.
Yes. Betting platforms like FanDuel and BetMGM have live betting options. Their users can place bets during the WSL competition. For example, bettors can predict the next wave score, who will win the ongoing heat, or whether a competitor will achieve a given aggregate. Note that not all events may qualify for live betting. Check out your sportsbook live betting section for more.
Consider Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) if your state does not allow sports betting. Unlike traditional betting, DFS falls under a different regulatory framework, making it legal in several jurisdictions. DFS platforms like Underground Fantasy and DraftKings DFS are common in states where sports betting is illegal.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Related Posts
Pipeline points can still swing WSL postseason berths
The World Surf League’s new 2026 format has turned late-season qualification into a race to keep chasing waves, with only 22 men and 14 women advancing to the postseason stop in Portugal and Cloud 9. Every Championship Tour surfer still has a season-ending chance at Pipeline, where results are worth 1.5 times a regular event and can still alter the rankings that help determine who qualifies for the 2027 tour.
Among the men still in the mix are Barron Mamiya, Alan Cleland, Mateus Herdy and Crosby Colapinto, who could move up enough to stay in contention. On the women’s side, Anat Lelior, Alyssa Spencer and Steph Gilmore are among the surfers who could break into the top 14 and secure a postseason berth.
The theme of chasing waves away from competition also showed up in recent surfer coverage. After an early loss at the Fiji Pro, Jack Robinson stayed in Fiji and surfed Cloudbreak and Restaurants, saying he felt like “little Jack” again after surfing with local surfers. John John Florence’s latest vlog followed life aboard the Vela, where he found “one perfect little right” and showed the planning, weather timing and logistics involved in hunting waves in remote locations.
Revived points system, eight Aussies lift Robinson, Ewing
Eight Australians will compete on this year’s men’s World Surf League Championship Tour after five — George Pittar, Oscar Berry, Morgan Cibilic, Callum Robson and Liam O’Brien — secured qualification at the final Challenger Series event at Merewether Beach in Newcastle. For most it marks a return to the CT, with Oscar Berry’s finish described as a breakthrough; Levi Slawson and Dimitri Poulos also pushed close to qualification at Newcastle.
Australia has not produced a men’s world champion since Mick Fanning in 2013, and Brazilian surfers largely dominated men’s world surfing over the past decade, with Hawaiian John John Florence a notable exception. Organizers say the expanded Australian contingent brings proven firepower to the Tour even if not every qualifier is viewed as an outright title favorite, and combined with a revived full-year points system the influx of qualifiers could make the title race more open and increase expectations for an Australian resurgence. Liam O’Brien singled out Jack Robinson and Ethan Ewing as the Australians most likely to end the title drought under the revived system.
Liam O’Brien became the fifth Australian man to qualify through this season’s Challenger Series after a shaky Round of 64 heat that left him nervously awaiting his fate. He is preparing for his fifth full CT season and said he does not set “massive goals,” remaining unsure exactly what to expect from the upcoming year. O’Brien also released a 10-minute surf edit titled “Amalgam” that stitches together clips from South America, heavy slabs in Western Australia, footage from Cyclone Alfred and a solo run at XL Burleigh, spotlighting his precise forehand rail work and making a case that he can contend for and win CT events.
Best Bets: WSL Ballito Pro Pre-Event Odds Analysis 2025
The KwaZulu-Natal North coast trades dolphin watching for world-class surfing this week as the Challenger Series comes to town. Matthew McGillivray steals the headlines as he tops the WSL Ballito Pro pre-event odds, 680 miles up the coast from where he learned to surf. Sally Fitzgibbons leads the women’s charge coming off two finals in …
Caity Simmers says power fuels her surfing evolution
Caity Simmers said her surfing has evolved from a style built on technique and timing into one with more power, while she continues to rely on creativity and reading waves. The 18-year-old, who won the 2024 world title and became the youngest woman ever to claim it, said she felt confident, stronger and grateful as the season went on.
Simmers said she first became interested in surfing around age 10 after her first contest, then spent time away from it with BMX, skating, scootering, dance and baseball before returning to the sport. She described herself as highly competitive and said her drive came partly from her family and partly from wanting to prove something to herself.
She said she stayed grounded by focusing on her relationships and the places surfing took her. At Punta Roca in El Salvador, she posted the event’s best heat total at 16.50 before losing to Tyler Wright in the quarterfinals.