Background

Chess Park: A Unique Retreat by the Ocean

4.3 (48)

Discover Chess Park in Santa Monica: A serene chess haven by the beach, perfect for enthusiasts and casual players alike.

Nestled along the picturesque Santa Monica coastline, Chess Park offers a serene escape for tourists seeking to unwind and engage in friendly competition. With its scenic ocean views and well-maintained facilities, this unique park is perfect for chess enthusiasts and casual players alike, encouraging social interaction in a beautiful setting.

A brief summary to Chess Park

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chess Park.

  • Bring your own chess set if you want to play in a quieter area.
  • Visit during the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along the beach for a full day of relaxation.
  • Check the local events calendar for any chess tournaments or activities.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Unlock the Best of Chess Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are starting from Santa Monica Pier, head east on Colorado Avenue towards the beach. Once you reach Ocean Avenue, turn left and walk north along Ocean Avenue until you reach the intersection with Ocean Front Walk. Turn left onto Ocean Front Walk, and you will find Chess Park at 1652 Ocean Front Walk on your right side after a short walk.

  • Public Transportation

    From the Santa Monica Civic Center, head to the nearest bus stop on Santa Monica Boulevard. Take the Big Blue Bus line 1 towards the Santa Monica Pier. Get off at the stop at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. From there, walk south on Ocean Avenue until you reach Ocean Front Walk. Turn left onto Ocean Front Walk and Chess Park will be at 1652 Ocean Front Walk on your right.

  • Biking

    If you are renting a bike, start from the Santa Monica Bike Center. Head south on Main Street until you reach Ocean Front Walk. Turn left on Ocean Front Walk and ride along the beachfront path. Continue riding until you reach Chess Park at 1652 Ocean Front Walk, which will be on your left.

  • Riding a Scooter

    If you have rented an electric scooter, start from the Third Street Promenade. Head west towards Colorado Avenue and turn left, following it down to Ocean Avenue. Once you reach Ocean Avenue, turn right and continue until you reach the intersection with Ocean Front Walk. Turn left onto Ocean Front Walk, and Chess Park will be located at 1652 Ocean Front Walk, just ahead on your right.

Discover more about Chess Park

Located on the vibrant Santa Monica beachfront, Chess Park is a hidden gem for both chess lovers and casual visitors. The park features numerous tables equipped with chess boards, inviting players of all ages to partake in strategic battles against friends or even strangers. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring the nearby attractions. Surrounded by the sound of crashing waves and the fresh ocean breeze, Chess Park offers a tranquil environment to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As a tourist attraction, Chess Park not only caters to chess enthusiasts but also serves as a lovely picnic spot where families can gather and enjoy the scenery. The park is conveniently located near the bustling Santa Monica Pier, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant beachfront and amusement park after a game of chess. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to improve your skills or a beginner wanting to learn the game, you will find a welcoming community here. In addition to chess, the park's proximity to the beach makes it a perfect starting point for a day filled with sun and sand. Visitors can easily transition from the park to the shore, enjoying a full day of leisure activities. With its unique blend of recreation and relaxation, Chess Park stands out as a must-visit destination for tourists in Santa Monica, promising memorable experiences in a stunning coastal setting.
Mobile 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 Santa Monica

File:Santa Monica Sunset.JPG - Wikipedia

Discover Santa Monica: California's coastal gem, where sun, sea, and city life blend seamlessly. Perfect for beach lovers, shoppers, and culture enthusiasts alike.

Tell me more about Santa Monica

Select Currency