Surf City Tours
Surf City Tours: The Ultimate Santa Monica Experience
Discover Chess Park: A Strategic Retreat by the Sea
Experience Chess Park in Santa Monica: A unique blend of strategy, community, and breathtaking ocean views in Southern California.
Nestled along the picturesque Santa Monica beachfront, Chess Park invites tourists to engage in friendly matches while enjoying stunning ocean views. This vibrant park is adorned with numerous chess tables, making it a haven for both casual players and serious enthusiasts. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Chess Park offers a unique blend of recreation and relaxation amidst the beautiful Southern California scenery.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Chess Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
6 am-9 pm
Tuesday
6 am-9 pm
Wednesday
6 am-9 pm
Thursday
6 am-9 pm
Friday
6 am-9 pm
Saturday
6 am-9 pm
Sunday
6 am-9 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Chess Park
Getting There
Public Bus
If you are starting from Burbank Town Center, walk to the nearest bus stop located on N San Fernando Blvd & E Olive Ave. Take the Metro Bus Line 165 towards 'North Hollywood', and get off at the stop 'North Hollywood Station'. From there, transfer to the Metro Red Line towards 'Union Station'. Get off at 'Hollywood/Vine' station and transfer to the Metro Bus Line 704 towards 'Santa Monica'. Get off at 'Ocean Ave & Colorado Ave'. From there, it's a short walk to Chess Park at 1652 Ocean Front Walk; just head south on Ocean Ave for about 0.5 miles until you reach the beachfront.
Walking
If you are close to the Burbank Civic Center, you can enjoy a scenic walk. Head south on N 3rd St, then take a left on Magnolia Blvd. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with N San Fernando Blvd, then turn right. Follow San Fernando Blvd until you reach the intersection with Colorado Blvd, then turn left. Continue on Colorado Blvd, which will take you towards the Santa Monica Pier. Follow the signs to the beach until you get to Ocean Front Walk, where you will see Chess Park at 1652 Ocean Front Walk.
Bike Rental
For a more adventurous option, rent a bike from one of the local bike rental shops in Burbank. After renting your bike, head south on N 3rd St towards Magnolia Blvd. Turn left on Magnolia Blvd, then right on N San Fernando Blvd. Continue south until you reach Colorado Blvd, then take a left. Follow Colorado Blvd until you get to the beach area and continue straight onto Ocean Front Walk. Chess Park will be on your right at 1652 Ocean Front Walk.
Rideshare
You can also use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your destination to 'Chess Park, 1652 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401'. The driver will pick you up from your current location in Burbank and take you directly to the park. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
Local tips
✓
Bring your own chess set if you prefer a private game.
✓
Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better chances to find a game.
✓
Don't forget to explore the nearby beach after your chess match for a full day of fun.
✓
Check for local chess events or tournaments that may be happening during your visit.
Discover more about Chess Park
Chess Park, located along the scenic Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica, is an inviting green space that effortlessly combines leisure and strategy. This charming park is particularly known for its numerous outdoor chess tables, where tourists and locals alike gather to engage in friendly matches against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for both seasoned chess players and beginners looking to learn the game. Visitors can often find impromptu tournaments taking place, where strategies unfold under the warm California sun.
Beyond chess, Chess Park serves as a serene escape from the bustling Santa Monica Pier and shopping district. The park's well-maintained greenery offers a pleasant environment for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply soaking in the coastal breeze. Families and friends can enjoy a day out, bringing their own chess sets or using the park's tables to challenge one another. The proximity to the beach means that after a game, visitors can take a short walk to enjoy the sandy shores or indulge in the vibrant local dining scene.
The park remains open daily from 6 AM to 9 PM, allowing ample time for both early risers and evening enthusiasts to partake in games. Chess Park not only provides recreational opportunities but also fosters a sense of community among players of all skill levels. Whether you're a traveler looking for a unique experience or a local in search of a friendly game, Chess Park is a must-visit destination in Santa Monica.
A brief summary to Chess Park
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Burbank
Explore Burbank, California's Media Capital, where Hollywood magic meets outdoor adventures and vibrant cultural experiences.
Tell me more about Burbank