- The best casino near San Diego is Barona Resort Casino, which has over 2,000 slot machines.
- Viejas Casino & Resort is one of the top choices because it has golfing, live entertainment, and more.
- If you’re looking to bet on sports or play poker, Sycuan Casino Resort is where you want to go.
California is infamous for being anti-gambling, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find some world-class casinos in the state.
There are 61 casinos in California alone, as well as several tribal casinos within a reasonable driving distance from San Diego.
If you are asking yourself “What casinos are near me?” in San Diego, fret not, I have you covered.
In this piece, I will break down the top casinos near San Diego based on their proximity, games offered, amenities, and overall value.
By the end, you should have a better idea of which casino is right up your alley. So, without further ado, here are the top casinos near San Diego!
Best Casinos Near San Diego
You don’t have to travel all the way to Las Vegas to get your gamble on. There are plenty of great casinos close enough for a day trip from San Diego.
I know some of you just want to know which casino is the best out of all. If you already lost interest in reading the entire thing, I’ll save you some time.
When it comes to the overall package, the best casino near San Diego is Barona Resort & Casino. They have an abundance of games, tons of promotions, and a gorgeous setting.
If you want to read about why Barona is the best, keep reading! If you already know Barona is your guy, feel free to jump to the section about their games and promotions.
Barona Resort & Casino
4725 W. State Hwy. 142
Lakeside, CA 92040
Right off the bat, Barona Resort & Casino might have the edge when it comes to location. It is nestled between hills with beautiful scenery around every corner. It reminds me a little bit of what I imagined Yosemite would be like except with slot machines.
On paper, they have everything you could ever need in a resort/casino hybrid. In total, they have three different restaurants, a couple of lounges, a coffee shop, and a marketplace for snacks and such.
Their hotel has 238 rooms with various views and prices depending on the type of room you prefer. You also get complimentary breakfast if you stay at the hotel.
They are open 24/7 and offer virtually every game you could imagine.
I won’t list them all, but they have all of your typical slot machines, electronic table games, traditional table games, poker, and a high-limit lounge. You name it; they got it.
Promotions are always running at Barona, so make sure to check those out before you head there. They have some good deals for new members, as well as bonuses for certain days of the week. You can sign up for their loyalty program on their website ahead of time.
Overall, it seems like Barona Resort & Casino sets themselves apart with their natural surroundings and diverse selection of games.
Barona Games and Promotions
When you think of a casino, the first thing you probably picture is the sea of slot machines. Barona has plenty of those. In fact, they have over 2,000 slot machines and 40 table games spread across the casino floor.
So, whether you prefer spinning the reels or playing blackjack, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a game you enjoy.
Let’s start with the slots. Barona has absolutely everything. From penny slots to high-stakes machines, there’s no shortage of ways to try and hit the jackpot.
Palace of Chance Sister Sites Worth Visiting in 2023Aside from traditional slot machines, they also have electronic versions of Keno, Roulette, Sic Bo, and Pai Gow. These games offer a different experience than regular slots while still maintaining that electronic charm.
If you prefer something a bit more interactive, you’ll be happy to know that Barona has plenty of table games. Whether you want to play cards, dice, or a wheel, they’ve got you covered.
Their table game lineup includes Ultimate Texas Hold ’em, Missisippi Stud, Let It Ride, Fluhtee, Blackjack, Three Card Poker, Four Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, Mini Baccarat, European Roulette, and American Roulette.
In addition to all of these games, they also have a dedicated Poker Room. Whether you prefer Hold ‘em, Omaha, or any other variant, you’ll find a game that suits your style.
And if you’re looking to learn the ropes, the Poker Room offers beginner-friendly tables where you can pick up the basics.
Promotions are a big deal at Barona. Whether you’re a slot player, table game enthusiast, or Poker aficionado, there’s a promotion for you. Here are a few of the current promotions at Barona:
— Slots of Fortune: Every month, Barona draws slots for a chance to win a share of $25,000.
— Table Games Bonus: Earn a bonus by playing table games on select days.
— Hot Seats: Randomly selected players have a chance to win up to $500.
— High Hand/Big Bad Oz Poker Promotion: Win a share of $1,000 by having the highest-ranked hand at the Poker Room during designated times.
These are just a few examples of the many promotions available at Barona. Be sure to check their website or stop by the casino for more information.
No matter what type of casino game you enjoy, Barona is sure to have something that tickles your fancy. And with new promotions popping up all the time, there’s always a reason to visit this top-rated San Diego area casino.
Viejas Casino & Resort
5000 Willows Rd
Alpine, CA 91901
Viejas Casino & Resort is located about twenty miles east of Lakeside and Barona.
It sits on top of a hill, giving you an excellent view of San Diego and parts of Mexico on a clear day.
In terms of amenities, Viejas checks nearly all of the boxes.
They have multiple places to eat, a coffee stand, convenience store, gas station, bowling alley, live entertainment, spa, workout facility, and hotel rooms starting at $139 per night.
One cool feature of the Viejas Casino is that they have an on-site museum showcasing the history and culture of the Kumeyaay Nation. The Kumeyaay are the local Native American tribe, and learning about their traditions and heritage is a great way to appreciate and respect their land even more.
Viejas also boasts two 18-hole golf courses designed by Tom Weiskopf. One is called the Bridle Trails Golf Course, and the other is the new and improved, award-winning SOFTIMPS® Pala Mesa Resort Course.
Viejas claims that their golf courses offer breathtaking views, which sound like marketing jargon until you see them yourself.
Both courses are truly amazing, and if you are into golf, I highly recommend you give them a shot (pun intended).
Now, onto the important stuff. Viejas Casino is open 24/7 and offers hundreds of the newest slot machines, classic slots, video poker, electronic roulette, and keno. They also have a high-limit lounge known as the Vault, where the stakes are higher, and the jackpots are even bigger.
If table games are more your speed, Viejas has you covered. They offer classic games like blackjack, pai gow poker, and three card poker, as well as lesser-known games like sic bo and Caribbean stud poker.
Plus, with new games constantly rotating in and out, there’s always something fresh and exciting to try.
Here’s a complete list of the table games offered at Viejas Casino:
- ULTATETXAS©
- Blackjack
- 21 +3™
- Super Face-Off™ PAI GOW POKER™
- Three Card Poker®
- Fourth Street Hold’em® Progressive
- Mississippi Stud™
- Lightning Link™
- Wheel of Fortune®
- Magic Charm™
- Heads Up Gin™
- Dancing Drum™
- Bingo
- MegaTower™
- Keno
- SIC BO
- Caribbean Stud Poker™
- Electronic Roulette
- Video Blackjack
- Video Keno
- Video Poker
If you’re new to gambling, Viejas offers Beginners Blackjack and Beginners 3 Card Poker tables where you can learn the ropes without feeling overwhelmed. Just let one of their friendly pit bosses know that it’s your first time, and they’ll point you in the right direction.
Another perk of gambling at Viejas is the complimentary beverages and valet parking. Some casinos charge for these services, but here they are included to enhance your gaming experience.
Even if table games aren’t your jam, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy the lively atmosphere and friendly dealers at Viejas. Plus, who doesn’t love placing a few bets and maybe even walking away with a little extra cash in your pocket?
If you plan on visiting Viejas Casino & Resort, I recommend signing up for their Player Rewards Club ahead of time. This will allow you to take advantage of exclusive promotions and earn points that can be redeemed for various rewards, such as free play, discounts at the gift shop, and more.
To join, simply visit this page and fill out the online application. Alternatively, you can sign up at the casino using your driver’s license, another form of identification, and a utility bill to verify your address. Trust me, joining is easy and free, and it’s definitely worth doing if you plan on gambling at Viejas. Happy gambling!
Harrah’s Resort Southern California
777 Harrah’s Rincon Way
Funston, CA 92026
Harrah’s Resort Southern California is just seven miles west of Viejas Casino & Resort. If you prefer to cluster your gambling activities, these two would work well together since they are essentially neighbors.
Harrah’s is another resort that has just about anything you desire outside of a casino. Restaurants, bars, a café, market, Starbies, spa, fitness center, pool, and even a small aquarium (for the fish lovers out there).
The RMS Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner turned hotel and attraction, is also owned and operated by the same company as Harrah’s. If you are into maritime history, that might be something you would be interested in.
Harrah’s also happens to be the largest casino in San Diego, covering 200,000 square feet of pure gambling goodness.
Things Barstool Sportsbook Could Do To Improve Customer SatisfactionWhile other casinos seem to brag about their size or number of slot machines, Harrah’s prefers to focus on “the little things.” They claim that attention to detail separates them from the competition, and I guess that’s true in some regard.
I didn’t notice the subtle nuances they were referring to, but maybe you will. Either way, Harrah’s seems like a quality establishment, so let’s dive deeper into what they have to offer.
For starters, Harrah’s features all of your favorite games, including , video poker, and electronic keno. They also have a variety of table games, such as blackjack, mini baccarat, and pai gow poker.
In addition to traditional casino fare, Harrah’s Southern California also offers unique games like Spin Pokerr, 3-Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and Mississippi Stud. If you’re looking for something a little different, these games are definitely worth checking out.
Of course, no discussion of a Harrah’s casino would be complete without mentioning the . As a member of Caesars Rewards, you can earn tier credits and use them to climb the loyalty ladder and unlock increasingly generous perks and benefits.
From valet and self-parking to dining and beverage service, tip expression is also simplified, thanks to the convenient Tip Overlay featured on select slot machines and table games.
And speaking of tips, did you know that Harrah’s was the first casino in Southern California to implement a ? By eliminating tip outs for table games and establishing a uniform gratuity for slots and videos, they’ve made the whole process simpler and more transparent for everyone involved.
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a casual player, Harrah’s Southern California has something for everyone. And with new games being added all the time, there’s always a new adventure waiting for you just minutes away from downtown San Diego!
Jamul Casino
14145 County Road M5/281
Jamul, CA 91935
Out of all four casinos I am reviewing today, Jamul Casino is the furthest one from San Diego.
It is almost 20 miles farther than Viejas Casino & Resort, so consider that when choosing which casino(s) to visit. However, some of you may prefer Jamul due to its location and layout. Everyone has their own preferences.
Jamul Casino opened in November 2016 after the previous venue (Jamul Arabian Nights) closed its doors after 37 years of operation.
San Diego Federal Credit Union purchased the property and invested $37 million into the new casino, which is now managed by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment.
With its scenic location overlooking the urban wildlands of Jamul, California, the casino offers panoramic views of San Diego and the Mexican border.
The architectural design of the building mimics the surrounding hills and curves of the region, creating a sense of harmony with nature.
Although Jamul Casino does not offer accommodations like some of the other resorts on this list, it does have a few notable distinctions. For one, it is one of the few casinos in the world managed by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut.
It is also the first smoke-free casino in Southern California, although guests are allowed to smoke outside in designated areas.
At Jamul Casino, there are over 2,000 of the latest slot machines, popular table games, and a full-service poker room. They also have a VIP lounge for elite players seeking an exclusive gambling experience.
Despite its recent opening, Jamul Casino appears to be thriving and attracting customers from nearby cities. According to reports, the casino generated $28.7 million in revenue during its second quarter of operations, making it one of the most profitable casinos in the region.
This success can likely be attributed to its convenient location, modern amenities, and commitment to providing a top-notch gambling experience.
Here is a list of all the games Jamul Casino has to offer:
- Classic Slots
- Video Poker
- Video Keno
- Electronic Roulette
- Blackjack
- Mississippi Stud
- Four Card Poker
- Mini Baccarat
- Pai Gow Tile
- Pai Gow Poker
- Three Card Poker
- Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em
As mentioned earlier, Jamul Casino is the only completely smoke-free casino in the San Diego area. This policy applies to both guests and employees, although smoking areas are provided outside the building. If you’re particularly sensitive to cigarette smoke, this could be a major selling point.
However, it’s worth noting that Jamul’s smoke-free policy is relatively uncommon in the casino industry, which tends to be heavily associated with tobacco use. In fact, California law allows casinos to apply for exemptions that permit smoking inside their establishments.
But Jamul has chosen to go in a different direction, positioning itself as a health-conscious alternative for gamblers who want to breathe easy while trying their luck.
If you’re planning a visit to Jamul Casino, I recommend taking advantage of their Fast Pass kiosks for redeeming M Club Rewards. These self-serve machines allow you to skip the lines at the Players Redemption Center and quickly collect your earnings.
Simply insert your card into the kiosk, select your reward, and voila! It’s a convenient option for those who value efficiency and hate standing in long queues. You can learn more about the Fast Pass kiosks on their website.
of the Best Poker Rooms Outside of Las VegasSycuan Casino Resort
5469 Paradise Rd
El Cajon, CA 92019
Sycuan Casino Resort is yet another quality establishment that is only eleven miles from Jamul Casino.
Like others on this list, Sycuan has a little bit of everything. They have a few places to eat, a few places to drink, a few places to stay, and a ton of games to play.
Sycuan boasts a recently remodeled casino floor that combines their legendary past with modern luxury. Their goal is to provide a comfortable environment where you can lose track of time and focus solely on having a good time.
With over 2,000 slot machines, Sycuan makes it easy to get caught up in the action. Whether you prefer classic reel spinters or the latest video slots, they have something to tickle your fancy.
Table games, poker, and a high-limit lounge round out the options for those seeking a more immersive gambling experience.
Sycuan has been family-owned and operated for over 35 years, providing a level of personal touch and commitment to customer satisfaction that larger corporate casinos may lack.
The casino is currently run by the third generation of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, ensuring that the community’s values and traditions are woven into the fabric of the business.
If you plan to visit Sycuan, you can save time by signing up for their loyalty club online before your arrival. This will allow you to start earning rewards right away and avoid the hassle of filling out forms on the spot. To enroll, just click the “Join Now” button on their website and follow the instructions. Trust me, it’s much easier than dealing with paperwork at the casino.
Here are the main types of games you can expect to find at Sycuan Casino:
- Slots (Classic and Progressives)
- Loose Change (Denominations under a dollar)
- Table Games (Blackjack, Pai Gow Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em, etc.)
- Sycuan Live! (Streamed table games)
- Poker
- High Limits
Sycuan is perhaps best known for its poker offerings, which include daily tournaments and cash games with blind structures catering to all bankrolls. They also have a beginner’s poker table where novices can learn the ropes without feeling intimidated by experienced players.
In addition, Sycuan offers Sycuan Live!, an innovative platform that streams live table games 24/7. Whether you’re in the mood for blackjack, roulette, or baccarat, you can place your bets and interact with dealers from the comfort of your own seat.
Overall, Sycuan Casino provides a wide range of gambling options to suit every preference and skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie looking to test your luck, there’s something here for everyone.
Palm Springs Casino
44500 Highway 111
Indio, CA 92201
Palm Springs Casino is the final destination on our journey through San Diego’s neighboring casinos.
It is by far the farthest one from San Diego, but it is still technically within two hours. That said, I would group this casino with those in Palm Springs such as Spa Resort Casino, Agua Caliente Casino, Augustine Casino, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, Morongo Casino, Resort, and Casino Capri.
You have a lot to choose from if you enjoy the casino scene and happen to be visiting Palm Springs or the desert area.
Since we are talking about the Palm Springs Casino specifically, I want to highlight a few of their key attributes.
For starters, they have a pretty solid loyalty program. If you plan on gambling a decent amount of money, it might be worth it to become a member. Here are the details straight from their site:
“Our members enjoy personalized service, exclusive access to events and venues, and the opportunity to earn points towards free play and discounts at participating CBX locations. Our team members are specially trained to understand each member’s preferences and tailor their experience accordingly. Joining is easy and free!”
Not convinced? How about their extensive list of games? They have all of the usual suspects plus some fun ones I haven’t seen at other casinos.
- Slots
- Loose Change
- Video Poker
- Blackjack
- Caribbean Draw
- Caribbean Hold ‘ Em
- Casino War
- Criss Cross Poker
- Electronic Roulette
- Mini Baccarat
- Pai Gow Poker
- Rapid Roulette
- Rapid Fire!
- Sin Bin
- Spanish 21
- Straight Up Racebook
- Synktablo
- Ultimate Texas Hold ‘ Em
In addition to traditional table games, Palm Springs Casino also offers some unique gaming experiences:
- Sin Bin – A progressive jackpot linking all CBX casinos. Hit the Sin Bin for a chance to win big.
- Rapid Roulette – An automated version of traditional roulette that allows players to place bets and watch the ball spin around the wheel at lightning speed.
- Synktablo – A linkable slot machine that allows players to sync their reels and potentially win bigger prizes.
- Synkgreat – Another linked slot machine that synchronizes the top three reels among a bank of machines for enhanced winning opportunities.
- Rapid Fire! – A fast-paced game similar to bingo, where numbers are drawn rapidly and players mark off their cards in search of winning patterns.
CBX casinos also offer Straight Up Racebook, which allows players to place wagers on horse races without actually attending the tracks in person.
If you’re tired of the same old slot machines, you might want to give “Racebooks” a try. These games combine elements of horse racing and slot machines, allowing you to place virtual bets on virtual horses as they race around a virtual track. It’s like watching the Kentucky Derby from the comfort of your barstool!
The main draw of these “unique” games is the potential for bigger payouts. Since they often feature progressive jackpots or other special prizes, you have a chance to walk away with more money than you would from a standard slot machine. Of course, as with any gamble, there are no guarantees.
That’s why they’re called games–there’s an element of chance and luck involved that can turn even the most straightforward concept into a risky proposition. But if you’re feeling adventurous and have a few bucks to spare, why not give one of these quirky games a try? Who knows, you might just strike it rich… or end up empty-handed. Your mileage may vary.
Whether you’re a casual player looking for some lighthearted fun or a serious gambler seeking new challenges, CBX casinos offer a little something for everyone. Who needs normal slot machines when you can bet on cartoon horses instead? Life is too short to take everything so seriously, am I right?
Anyway, back to Palm Springs Casino. In addition to their CBX games, Palm Springs Casino also offers a nice variety of table games, a high-limit lounge, and a poker room. They also host frequent promotions and events, so be sure to check their website for the latest offerings.
Regardless of your preferred style of play, Palm Springs Casino provides a vibrant and entertaining atmosphere for anyone looking to roll the dice, pull a lever, or just blow some cash on a whim. Why not make your next gambling adventure a road trip to the desert? Who needs Hawaii or Europe when you have palm trees and slot machines galore? Life is a casino, Might as well play the game.
What Is the Best Place to Gamble Near San Diego?
After researching all five of these casinos, my official recommendation for the best place to gamble near San Diego is Barona Resort Casino.
Sure, it may be tied with Harrah’s and Jamul in terms of distance from downtown San Diego, but Barona blows the others out of the water for me.
First of all, the location cannot be beat. Barona feels secluded, which adds to the ambiance of the entire experience. When I gamble, I want to forget about reality for a little while, and Barona makes that possible.
Second, the variety of games is impressive. They have all of the classics, as well as a few unique twists that keep things interesting. I also love the outdoor gaming area, which allows you to enjoy the fresh air while taking your chances.
Finally, the loyalty program at Barona is unmatched. Not only do you earn points faster, but you also have the opportunity to win incredible prizes through the Crown Club Sweepstakes. Who doesn’t love the thrill of winning something unexpectedly?
Of course, this doesn’t mean the other casinos are bad choices. Far from it. Each establishment has its own strengths and appeals to different gamblers. If you prefer a smoke-free environment, Jamul is your best bet. For a wider variety of games, head to Palm Springs. And let’s not forget about the historic Cabazon Band of Mission Indians who own both Morongo Casino, Resort, and Spa and Tamarack Casino.
Ultimately, the best casino for you depends on your personal preferences and gambling style. But if I had to recommend just one, Barona Resort Casino would be the one I’d put my money on. Try it out and see if it becomes your new favorite spot to roll the dice (or pull the lever, as the case may be). Good luck!
San Diego has a thriving casino scene, but sometimes it’s nice to switch things up and try somewhere new. That’s why I’ve also included some other California casinos that you might enjoy.
From the glittering lights of Reno to the rolling hills of Northern California, there’s no shortage of gambling destinations within driving distance. So grab your wallet, buckle up, and hit the road–who knows, lady luck might be just a few hours away.
casinos online free money• Pechanga Resort Casino
• Yaamava’ Resort & Casino – San Manuel
• Graton Resort and Casino
• Valley View Casino & Hotel
• Jamul Casino
• Cabazon Band of Mission Indians
• Pala Casino, Spa and Resort
• Augustine Casino
• Thunder Valleyt he Casino and Hotel
• Cache Creek Casino Resort
• Larry Flynt Lucky Lady Casino
• Cascade Shuttle
• Stateline Shuttle
• Carson City Airporter
Looking for somewhere even further? Las Vegas is a doozy.
Before you hit the road, remember to always gamble responsibly. Set a budget, know your limits, and never drive drunk/high/insane. Thanks for listening to my TED talk.
Footnotes:
- “History of the Luiseno Indian Tribe of California”
External Links:
- Barona Resort Casino Official Site: https://www.barona.com/
- Harrah’s Resort Southern California Official Site: https://www.harrahssoutherncalifornia.com/
- Jamul Casino Official Site: https://www.jamulcasino.com/
- Palm Springs Casino Official Site: https://www.pscbx.com/
- Sycuan Casino Resort Official Site: https://sycuan.com/
- Fun Facts About Chips: Https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/casino-fun/originate-playing-cards-234/
- Map of All California Tribes: Https://nativerevenue.ca.gov/tribes/map/
Anthony is a sports writer for GamblingSites.com covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. He also covers other various topics such as entertainment, general sports betting tips, and more.
His favorite teams are the New York Jets, Knicks, Mets, and Rangers. His favorite musician is Post Malone. His favorite movie is Out of Sight.
