Home Poker South Carolina Poker – Compare the Best Real Money Poker Sites in SC
Alan Kendall

Discover everything there is to know about South Carolina poker sites in our ultimate guide. Get all the facts and details you need to know about playing online poker in SC, including top bonuses, best operators and the newest legal developments.

Despite an absence of local online poker rooms, SC residents are able to play online poker at offshore poker sites that are licensed and regulated internationally. In our guide, we’ll dig deeper into the offerings of these SC poker sites to bring you vital information to start your online poker journey in The Palmetto State.

The Latest South Carolina Poker News

South Carolina is one of the most strict, if not the strictest state in the US for both offline and online gambling activities. In fact, it is one of the few remaining states that doesn’t actually have a physical casino property on land within its borders. There have been a couple of attempts at introducing legal sports betting in SC, which may have paved the way for online poker in the future. Read more below.

  • 2022 – HB 5277 introduced by Rep. William Herbkersman to legalize retail and online sports betting. Co-sponsored by Rep. Todd Rutherford. The bill was never publicly discused after being referred to the House Committee on Judiciary.
  • 2021 – Rep. Todd Rutherford proposed a constitutional amendment in HB 3395 to legalize pro-sport betting in the state.

List of the Best South Carolina Poker Sites

Following extensive research, our team has put together a shortlist of the best five poker sites for South Carolina players.

  1. BetOnline – The best offshore poker site in South Carolina
  2. Bovada – Excellent online poker bonuses for SC players
  3. SportsBetting.ag – Long-established brand with great poker games
  4. Ignition – Top-rated online poker network in SC
  5. Everygame – Best value poker bonus for South Carolina players

Reviews of the Best SC Poker Sites

Our team spend countless hours researching the best online poker sites and we are happy to bring you the key highlights below. Our reviews give you an insight as to what’s available at these best-rated offshore poker sites that provide legal online poker games and tournaments for SC players.

1. BetOnline – The best offshore poker site in South Carolina

BetOnline Poker

BetOnline comes out on top for being the best offshore poker site in South Carolina. The website is professional and intuitive, which is great for both beginner poker players and seasoned pros. Its design is slick, modern and easy on the eye. So finding the perfect tables to join and tournaments to enter is a breeze.

BetOnline Poker runs on the Chico Poker Network, so there are plenty of poker variants available to enjoy, along with good traffic any time day or night. In addition, your opponents are diverse and mixed ability, which is great for competing against varied players, racking up some nice wins and challenging yourself as you play.

When you visit BetOnline, it’s easy to see why this South Carolina poker site is ranked number one. There are plenty of tournaments to enter, including Sunday Majors, Nightly Monsters, $1 Million Windfall, Progressive Bounties and many more.

On top of this, you can sink your teeth into a variety of different poker games, such as Boost Poker, Windfall Poker and Six Plus Hold’em. Furthermore, all players are awarded with regular bonuses and promotions using BetOnline casino bonus codes, along with freeroll tournaments, so there is plenty of excitement to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Pros:

  • High traffic poker network
  • Great poker bonuses
  • Robust poker software
  • Lots of exciting poker tournaments

Cons:

  • No live dealer poker

2. Bovada – Excellent online poker bonuses for SC players

Bovada Poker

Bovada is a juggernaut of the online poker world. The brand has been around for decades and has cemented itself firmly in the foundations of any offshore poker debate. For decades, Bovada Poker has been the go-to site for players from SC and other states looking to get in on some online poker action.

The website is simple, yet effective. Allowing you to quickly find what you’re looking for and spend less time browsing and more time playing poker. With a streamlined design dominated by a white background, it’s pleasant to dig around and sharpen your poker skills using the on-site poker guide.

Bovada Poker runs on the popular Pai Wang Luo Poker Network, which is known for its large player pools due to its high traffic from across various jurisdictions. On-site, you are able to play poker online or mobile thanks to the versatile poker platform and participate in an array of tournaments such as Turbo Tournaments, Knockouts, Monthly Milly and Jackpot Sit and Go’s among others.

What’s more, Bovada has plenty of poker games and variants available to suit all tastes and playing styles, including Hold’em, Omaha and various fixed limit tables. One of the stand-out features that is perfect for SC online poker players is that you can use the Quick Seat feature to automatically be placed at an available table based on your specified preferences. Our Bovada poker review provides a more in-depth look at the poker features and promotions.

Pros:

  • Exciting online poker variations
  • Busy poker network with plenty of action
  • Downloadable app for multiple devices
  • Generous poker welcome bonus

Cons:

  • Basic online poker app

3. SportsBetting.ag – Long-established brand with great poker games

SportsBetting.ag Poker

Over the years, SportsBetting.ag has become one of the leading South Carolina online poker rooms to date. The poker offering is up there with the best on the market due to its ease of use, wide range of games and thrilling tournaments.

If you are visiting the SportsBetting.ag for the first time, you will immediately be wowed by the attractive branding, with a dark blue background and dashes of yellow. The SportsBetting.ag platform is equally as pleasant on the eye and super simple to find your way around. As part of the CPN network, there are hundreds of poker tables waiting for you to join and regular tournaments with awesome prize potential.

For players that are wondering what all the fuss is about, there are plenty of features that make this brand a solid contender in top-rankings, including a generous welcome bonus which is available using the Sportsbetting promo code, $2 million guaranteed poker series, daily leaderboards, $150k weekly tournaments, $1 Million Windfall Jackpot and Bad Beat Jackpots.

Pros:

  • Plenty of different poker games
  • Wide range of payment options
  • Weekly big cash tournaments
  • Fast and efficient sign up process

Cons:

  • Lack of real dealer online poker

4. Ignition – Top-rated online poker network in SC

Ignition Poker

Ignition Poker is a sophisticated SC poker site that has been providing players with an equally as impressive service as its casino offering. The website is intuitive and easy to use, with a theme that is unique. The gray and orange branding portrays a cool and exciting vibe and the illustrations are eye-catching.

If you’re the type of online poker player that loves plenty of bonuses and action at any time day or night, then you will enjoy what’s available at Ignition. Running on the PWL network, you are able to compete against thousands of players from all over the world, all with varying skills levels and experience.

On site you will be able to work your way through the variety of features that make this SC online poker room a top choice, including Knockout Tournaments, Weekly Crypto Depositor’s Freeroll, $2,500 Weekly Poker Freerolls, Jackpot Sit & Go Tournaments and more.

Another core attribute that is clear from our Ignition poker review is that the platform is very good at retaining poker players. Players can improve their game using the strategy guides and tips, along with enjoy a variety of poker games on any device, thanks to the mobile poker app.

Pros:

  • Flexible and robust poker app
  • Comprehensive poker guide
  • Good selection of bonuses for all players
  • Online poker action 24 hours a day

Cons:

  • Lack of payment methods

5. Everygame – Best value poker bonus for South Carolina players

Everygame Poker

Despite being ranked fifth in our shortlist, Everygame offers South Carolina poker players with great opportunities to enjoy poker games and tournaments on a platform they can trust. There are a variety of bonuses and promotions available which you can claim using Everygame casino promo codes. Whether you’re looking to play poker via your web browser or software app, you will notice that the branding is among the best in the business. The red and black design is classy and professional and puts out a serious prestige vibe.

In terms of what’s on offer, you will be happy to learn that Everygame is an offshore poker site with plenty of features and action on the Horizon Poker Network. When you sign up you get immediate access to a host of benefits, such as Rakeback, Frequent Player Points, Gold Chips and FPP Race rewards.

What’s more, if you head over to the tournament section of the platform, you will be able to participate in numerous poker tournaments with varying buy-ins and prizes up for grabs, including the Caribbean Poker Tour, the Sunday Myriad, Star Tournaments, Bounty Tournaments, Wipeout Series and Sit and Go’s.

All cash games and tournaments are accessible to all SC poker players and you can add funds easily to your account using a variety of methods, including Visa, MasterCard, Neteller, Skrill, Bitcoin and paysafecard.

Pros:

  • Low buy-ins to some tournaments
  • Live streams via Twitch
  • Rewarding loyalty program
  • Generous welcome bonus

Cons:

  • Small number of poker games

Frequently Asked Questions about Poker in South Carolina

Is online poker legal in South Carolina?

Can I legally play poker online in SC?

What is the most legit online poker site for SC?

What is the best online poker site for beginners in South Carolina?

Comparing Poker Sites in South Carolina

We are experts in all aspects of online poker. So we are happy to share with you results from our research and findings in order for you to compare SC poker rooms and make an informed decision about where to play.

Poker Room Poker Bonus Freerolls Casino Poker Qualifiers Live Poker
BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 6+
Bovada 100% up to $500 8+
SportsBetting.ag 100% up to $1,000 5+
Ignition 100% up to $1,000 6+
Everygame 200% up to $1,000 6+

Is Online Poker Legal in SC?

South Carolina is known as one of the most strict states in the US when it comes to online gambling in all forms, including poker. In fact, the online prospect looks similar to the offline landscape in that there are no legally licensed casino operators or card rooms on SC soil.

With that said, South Carolina online poker fans venture further afield to play poker games for cash and participate in tournaments at offshore poker sites. These sites, much like the casino river boats and casino cruise yachts found in federal waters, are based offshore and accept SC players that are aged 18 or above. Since offshore poker sites are not physically located within the US, they fall into a gray area that makes them accessible to South Carolinians.

South Carolina Poker Laws

SC poker laws are extremely stringent and do not permit you to play poker online or in person. However, there are a few gray areas within the state that people use to get legally get around the laws in place.

  • There is no law in South Carolina permitting online poker or other forms of online gambling.
  • Video poker was legal for 21 years before being outlawed in the year 2000.
  • There are no brick and mortar casino properties that have poker rooms in South Carolina.
  • There are two casino boats lawfully operating from SC; The Big M Casino and the SunCruz Aquasino, which houses its own poker room where you can play poker in person.

Can I Play at an Offshore Poker Room from SC?

If you live in SC and want to play online poker at an offshore poker site, then you are free to do so. Offshore poker sites are not located within US borders and fall into a gray area, allowing you to register and download poker software. Some online poker rooms carry out geolocation checks to validate and verify account details. But there is nothing to worry about in South Carolina. If you have any doubts, you can make use of a virtual private network app that adds an additional level of anonymity to your connection.

Legal Poker Sites vs Offshore Poker Sites

Below, our team has put together a segment that covers the comparisons between legal poker sites and offshore poker sites in SC. You can use this information to make an informed decision about which poker site to play at based on a variety of attributes.

How can I tell the Difference between a Legal and Offshore Poker Site?

When you visit a legal poker site that is locally licensed and regulated, you will be able to view the details of the relevant authority or governing body in the footer. This acts as a seal of approval from the relevant gaming board within the state of operation.

In the instance of offshore SC poker sites, these are licensed and regulated in the jurisidiction in which they are situated or registered, such as Curacao.

Online Poker Safety & Fairness – Who Regulates Legal Poker Sites in South Carolina?

Unlike the South Carolina Lottery Commission, which oversees legal lotteries in the state, there is no law permitting online poker in South Carolina and therefore no regulatory body in place to oversee the activity.

SC poker players that play poker online at offshore operator sites do so under the safety and security measures as outlined by the government of the nation in which they are registered.

Offshore Poker Sites in South Carolina – Are Offshore Poker Sites Safe for SC Players?

Offshore poker sites are licensed and regulated for fair gaming by their prospective governing bodies, often using third-party software to provide players with access to a poker network.

Poker games on reputable networks such as the Chico Poker Network used by offshore poker sites are fair, secure and free of exploits.

Will South Carolina be Ring-Fenced or Shared Player Pool?

Since there are no locally-established online poker rooms or operators in SC, there are no poker networks available. However, in the event of online poker being legalized in the future, we anticipate that South Carolina will use a ring-fenced network. read on to find out more about how this compares to a shared player pool.

Perks of Ring-Fencing Player Pools

With a ring-fenced player pool by state, you know that you are going to be playing against fellow South Carolinians. You will also be familiar with any local laws relating to the legalities of playing poker and paying taxes. In essence, some players can feel a greater sense of security on a ring-fenced player pool network.

Drawbacks of Ring-Fencing Player Pools

There are a number of potential drawbacks and downsides to playing on a poker network with a ring-fenced player pool. Depending on the operator site you are a member of, you may experience a lack of competition, higher buy-ins, less opponents due to a limited audience and smaller prize pots.

How to Play Online Poker in South Carolina

Registering and playing at a South Carolina poker site is easy when you follow our step by step guide below. In our example, we’ve used BetOnline Poker to show you exactly what you need to do from start to finish.

1. Register a new poker account

Visit your chosen online poker site and complete the registration form to create a new poker account.

BetOnline Poker Registration

2. Login

Once you’ve completed the registration process and verified your account details, click the login button to sign in to your new account.

BetOnline Poker Login

3. Make a deposit

Visit the on-site cashier and make your first deposit to add funds to your bankroll. You can use a variety of payment methods such as Visa, MasterCard, Neteller and Skrill.

BetOnline Poker Cashier

4. Play poker online

Download the software or app directly from your chosen poker site or choose instant play to use your web browser. Browse the available poker tables or tournaments in the lobby and take a seat to start playing.

BetOnline Play Poker

Making Deposits & Withdrawals at SC Poker Sites

There are a variety of payment methods available at SC poker sites that you can use for depositing and withdrawing funds to and from the operator. These include cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover, along with alternative methods like Neteller, Skrill and paysafecard.

Crypto at Poker Sites

These days, using crypto at poker sites is relatively common and there are many options available to players wishing to add funds to their account. You can transfer cryptocurrency directly from your wallet in numerous digital coins, including Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin.

eWallets at Poker Sites

EWallets are widely used at many online poker sites in SC and other parts of the US. As you probably know, the most popular ewallet in the world is PayPal. However, this is rarely accepted at online poker rooms. Instead, Neteller or Skrill is the preferred eWallet for both operators and players.

Traditional Payment Methods

South Carolina online poker rooms that accept SC residents provide a number of traditional payment methods, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

Poker Site Bonuses available for SC Players

Online poker sites use bonuses and promotions to attract new players and provide incentives to draw-in fresh customers. They also use ongoing promotions to reward loyalty and maintain a good consistent base of existing players. In the sections below, we have outlined three of the most common poker bonuses that are popular with players in SC, all of which offer great value for money and reasonable playthrough requirements.

Online Poker Bonus

Match Deposit Bonuses

Online poker match deposit bonuses are the most popular promotion offered to new players that are signing up for the first time. Sometimes referred to as a welcome bonus, you can get additional bonus funds to play poker with alongside your own cash deposit.

Match deposit bonuses for new players typically come as a percentage ranging from 100% to 200%. For example, if you claim the BetOnline 100% deposit match bonus using a deposit of $100, you will receive $100 free, giving you a total of $200 to play.

No Deposit Bonuses

You can claim a no deposit bonus at some online poker sites upon sign up. Often called a casino sign up bonus, you will receive free funds to play poker with as a reward for creating a new account. No deposit bonuses are an excellent way to try out new poker rooms, practice your game and win cash without depositing any of your own.

Free Roll Tickets

In usual circumstances, if you enter an online poker tournament you will be required to pay a buy-in fee. However, with freeroll tickets, you can enter tournaments for free and still win a share of the prize pot. Free roll tickets are generally reserved for brand-new players or existing players that are part of a loyalty program.

Playing on South Carolina Poker Apps & Mobile Sites

Mobile poker is on the rise and many poker sites provide dedicated apps and mobile-friendly platforms so you can enjoy poker action on the move. Let’s take a look at mobile poker in more detail below.

BetOnline Poker iPhone App

Mobile Poker Apps – Advantages & Disadvantages

We understand that every person has their own likes and dislikes when it comes to playing poker on a particular device. But if you’re on the fence, let us run through some of the common advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages: Mobile poker apps are free to install. You can also use them to play poker from any location such as relaxing at home, or on the commute to work. Having a mobile app installed gives you quick access to thrilling poker games and tournaments conveniently.

Disadvantages: Mobile poker can be difficult to enjoy if you prefer big screens. Due to obvious size restrictions, the interface is much smaller. This can sometimes have an impact on the type of games you can play and the functions and features available.

How to Download Poker Apps or Software

Whether you’re using a mobile poker app or desktop software to play poker, it’s easy to get started using our step-by-step guide below:

  1. Visit your chosen poker site.
  2. Register a new account.
  3. Click download poker app.
  4. Install the app and login.
  5. Browse the poker lobby and play.

Tips for Playing Online Poker for Real Money in South Carolina

If you’re a keen SC poker player, enhance your game and maximise your experience with our expert tips below.

  • Become a poker master. Learn, play and continue learning from guides and strategies to become a master of online poker and play using skills and techniques along the way, such as when to bluff.
  • Join a poker site with a lot of new players. This way you will be playing against opponents of equal skill level and will win more games as you develop your game.
  • Enter tournaments with low buy-ins or freerolls with minimum cost but maximum rewards.
  • Manage your bankroll and know when to quit. Don’t chase your losses and only play with what you have set aside for poker.
  • Join a poker site with a loyalty program to benefit from ongoing promotions and rewards, such as rakeback.

Playing Online Poker vs Poker Live in South Carolina

Nothing beats the convenience of online poker. However, nothing beats the atmosphere of playing poker at a live casino. As you can see, these are two extremely different points but also very valid.

The bottom line is, it often comes down to what your preferences are as a poker player. Online poker is fast, accessible and convenient. Whereas live poker is authentic, more realistic and social.

Ultimately, if we were to choose, online poker would edge it. There are more games and tournaments available, it is also more flexible and offers you the chance to benefit from bigger bonuses and rewards.

Live Poker in SC – Casinos With Poker Rooms

Due to the strict gambling laws within the state of SC, there are no land-based casino establishments in SC. However, there are two casino boats that sail on Little River as part of The Big “M” Casino, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean between North Carolina and South Carolina.

The Big “M” Casino

Address: 4491 Mineola Avenue, Little River, SC 29566

Opening hours: Day and night cruises between 11am-11pm

A luxury casino boat offering Vegas style casino games and jackpots. Various cruise schedules available throughout the day and night.

Famous South Carolina Poker Players

  • John “Hank” Sitton III: Known as Hank, Sitton is a professional poker player from Greenville, South Carolina with an estimated career earnings of $1m+.
  • Mitchell Wayne Smith: A professional poker player from Winnsboro, South Carolina with an estimated earnings so far of $500k.

The Best Poker Site in South Carolina

Our best-rated South Carolina online poker site is BetOnline. This site offers the complete package when it comes to playing poker on desktop or mobile. BetOnline’s poker platform is fast and efficient with plenty of games and tournaments available.

If you’re keen to start playing poker with a brand you can trust, BetOnline will provide you with the ideal start to begin your poker journey from the ground up. You’ll also be able to benefit from a host of perks and bonuses that will boost your account balance.

Alan Kendall

Alan Kendall

Alan Kendall joined Augusta Free Press in June, 2022. He has been sharing his knowledge and expertise with the online sports betting community for more than fifteen years - creating compelling content across a variety of topics and markets, including pre-game betting, live betting and SGP. Alan has written for many publications including Business 2 Community and specializes in betting strategies and guides to help players improve their decision-making.