Chess Park: A Unique Retreat by the Ocean
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
- 1652 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
- +1310-458-8450
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- 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.
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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Santa Monica Pier
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Santa Monica Pier, where history meets fun with attractions, stunning views, and vibrant coastal culture.
Viceroy Santa Monica
0.4 km
Discover luxury at Viceroy Santa Monica, where modern elegance meets stunning ocean views in the heart of California's iconic beach city.
Beach Crossing Staircase
0.5 km
Discover Santa Monica's coastal charm at the Beach Crossing Staircase, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a seamless connection between city life and beach serenity.
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
0.5 km
Discover the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, a landmark of mid-century modern architecture with a rich history of hosting the Academy Awards and legendary performers, currently awaiting revitalization.
Santa Monica Place
0.5 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.
Crescent Bay Park
0.6 km
Discover a tranquil coastal haven at Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica, offering stunning ocean views, lush green spaces, and a rich history as part of the Bay Street Beach Historic District.
Will Rogers Highway Marker
0.6 km
Commemorating the iconic Route 66 and the beloved Will Rogers, this Santa Monica marker offers a glimpse into America's open road spirit and a tribute to a legendary entertainer.
Historic Belmar Park
0.6 km
Discover Santa Monica's Historic Belmar Park: A poignant memorial and vibrant community space honoring a displaced African American neighborhood through art, history, and recreation.
Clock Tower Building
0.7 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Clock Tower Building: an Art Deco masterpiece with a rich history, offering a blend of architectural beauty and modern attractions in the heart of downtown.
Downtown Santa Monica
0.8 km
Experience the best of Southern California in Downtown Santa Monica: sun-kissed beaches, vibrant shopping, diverse dining, and iconic attractions all steps from the Pacific Ocean.
Horatio Court (Point of Interest - Architecture)
1.0 km
Discover Horatio Court in Santa Monica: An architectural masterpiece by Irving Gill, showcasing early modernist design and a commitment to simple, functional living in Ocean Park.
Santa Monica Statue
1.0 km
Discover the Santa Monica Statue, a stunning cultural landmark dedicated to the Virgin Mary, nestled in picturesque Palisades Park with breathtaking ocean views.
Edwin Building
1.1 km
Discover the Edwin Building, a historical landmark in Santa Monica showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage amidst vibrant surroundings, designed by Paul Revere Williams.
Santa Monica History Museum
1.1 km
Discover Santa Monica's vibrant history at the Santa Monica History Museum, featuring engaging exhibits and rich cultural stories that celebrate the city's heritage.
Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
1.1 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a majestic landmark with a rich history and stunning natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
0.0 km
Discover the legacy of fitness at Original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, where history meets health in a stunning coastal setting.
Surf City Tours
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Santa Monica with Surf City Tours, offering memorable sightseeing experiences along the stunning California coastline.
Santa Monica Pier Carousel
0.2 km
Experience a nostalgic ride on a hand-carved carousel at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark offering timeless fun and breathtaking ocean views for visitors of all ages.
Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
0.2 km
Discover the charm of the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a historic carousel on the iconic Ocean Front Walk, where nostalgia meets fun.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
0.2 km
Discover marine wonders at the Heal the Bay Aquarium in Santa Monica, where education meets conservation and oceanic beauty awaits.
Santa Monica Pier Arch
0.2 km
An iconic gateway to seaside fun, the Santa Monica Pier Arch welcomes visitors to a historic landmark filled with amusement park thrills, classic charm, and breathtaking ocean views.
Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
0.2 km
Experience the stunning Yacht Harbour in Santa Monica, a vibrant coastal gem perfect for relaxation, dining, and water activities.
Route 66 End of the Trail Sign
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, the iconic end of Route 66, featuring amusement rides, stunning ocean views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Route 66 End of the Trail
0.2 km
Experience the end of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, where history meets breathtaking ocean views and vibrant culture.
Tongva Park
0.2 km
Explore the beauty of Tongva Park in Santa Monica, a serene urban oasis with stunning landscapes, vibrant community events, and breathtaking ocean views.
Santa Monica Street Art
0.3 km
Explore the colorful murals and artistic installations of Santa Monica Street Art, a vibrant outdoor gallery along California's stunning coastline.
West Coaster
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of the West Coaster, the only oceanfront steel roller coaster on the West Coast, at Santa Monica Pier's Pacific Park.
Pacific Wheel
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking Pacific Ocean views from the world's first solar-powered Ferris wheel, an iconic Santa Monica Pier attraction offering eco-friendly fun and dazzling light shows.
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
0.3 km
Discover Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier, an amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and stunning ocean views perfect for family fun and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Bruno's Italian Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Bruno's Italian Restaurant in Santa Monica - where every dish tells a story.
The Albright
0.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at The Albright on Santa Monica Pier, where ocean views and delicious flavors unite for an unforgettable dining experience.
Seaside on the Pier
0.2 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Seaside on the Pier with stunning ocean views and vibrant atmosphere in Santa Monica.
Chez Jay
0.2 km
Experience exceptional steak and seafood at Chez Jay in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
The Lobster
0.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Lobster in Santa Monica, where ocean views meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.
Sol Agave - santa monica
0.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Sol Agave in Santa Monica; indulge in flavorful dishes and an extensive tequila selection by the beach.
RED O CANTINA
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist at RED O CANTINA in Santa Monica - where vibrant flavors meet coastal charm.
Capo
0.4 km
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Capo in Santa Monica - where fine dining meets stunning coastal views.
1 Pico
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at 1 Pico in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Coast
0.4 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with stunning ocean views at Coast in Santa Monica—where every meal is a celebration.
Meat On Ocean
0.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Meat On Ocean - Santa Monica's premier steakhouse with stunning ocean views.
True Food Kitchen
0.4 km
Discover healthful dining at True Food Kitchen in Santa Monica - where delicious meets nutritious with diverse menu options for every palate.
Sugar Palm Santa Monica
0.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Sugar Palm Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets exquisite dining.
Santa Monica Whaler
0.4 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest at Santa Monica Whaler - where fresh flavors meet stunning ocean views.
LouLou Santa Monica
0.5 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at LouLou Santa Monica, where stunning views meet culinary excellence in the heart of California's coastline.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
66-To-Cali
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant culture of California at 66-To-Cali, a unique gift shop in Santa Monica offering local souvenirs and trendy apparel.
Beachcomber Gift Cart
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Beachcomber Gift Cart, your go-to gift shop on Santa Monica Pier.
Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
0.2 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at the Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop, a treasure trove of coastal charm and local craftsmanship.
Oatman Rock Shop
0.2 km
Explore the unique gifts and treasures at Oatman Rock Shop, your go-to destination for souvenirs at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica
0.3 km
Explore Santa Monica's Gift & Souvenirs for unique keepsakes and stylish clothes that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
Pier Gear
0.3 km
Explore Pier Gear at Santa Monica Pier for a diverse selection of unique souvenirs capturing the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Sand 'n Surf
0.5 km
Explore Sand 'n Surf in Santa Monica for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of California's vibrant coastal culture.
Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
0.5 km
Explore Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and fishing supplies on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Free People
0.5 km
Discover bohemian fashion and unique clothing at Free People, a must-visit women's clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
UNIQLO Santa Monica Place
0.5 km
Explore modern fashion for all ages at UNIQLO Santa Monica Place, a stylish clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
LA Gift Stop
0.5 km
Explore LA Gift Stop in Santa Monica for unique gifts and treasures that embody the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Johnny Was
0.5 km
Explore the unique blend of bohemian fashion and luxurious accessories at Johnny Was in Santa Monica, a must-visit boutique for every style enthusiast.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Santa Monica, where fashion meets fun with a unique blend of clothing, beauty, and home goods.
Anthropologie
0.7 km
Shop at Anthropologie in Santa Monica for a unique blend of women's fashion, beauty products, and home décor in a stunning coastal setting.
Wonders of the World
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at the Wonders of the World gift shop in Santa Monica's lively 3rd Street Promenade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
0.1 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
The Backyard
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
The Living Room
0.4 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Bar Chloe
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Bar Chloe, Santa Monica's trendy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Lanea
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Ye Olde King's Head
0.6 km
Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.
The Coco Club
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.
THE BUNGALOW
1.1 km
Discover The Bungalow, a stylish bar and restaurant in Santa Monica offering a unique blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and coastal charm.
Bodega Wine Bar
1.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.2 km
Experience the finest selection of wines and gourmet bites at Esters Wine Shop & Bar in Santa Monica, where every sip tells a story.
Basement Tavern
1.4 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
1.5 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Jameson’s Pub in Santa Monica, where great food, drinks, and hospitality come together in a lively atmosphere.
Tavern on Main SM
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tavern on Main SM in Santa Monica, where delicious grill dishes and a lively bar atmosphere come together.
JuneShine - Santa Monica
1.7 km
Experience the unique taste of hard kombucha in a vibrant bar atmosphere at JuneShine, Santa Monica's refreshing oasis for tourists.
Library Alehouse
1.7 km
Discover Library Alehouse in Santa Monica, where American cuisine meets a cozy brewpub atmosphere filled with craft beers and literary charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Harvelle's
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Monica at Harvelle's, where live music and classic cocktails create unforgettable evenings.
Jame’s’ smoothies
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Jame's Smoothies, the perfect night club in Santa Monica for unique smoothies and great atmosphere.
TR!P Santa Monica
1.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of TR!P Santa Monica, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories in California.
Nameless Santa Monica
1.6 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Nameless Santa Monica, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await in the heart of California.
Senator Jones
2.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Santa Monica at Senator Jones, where music and vibrant energy come alive every weekend.
Gas Lite
2.8 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke and cocktail scene at Gas Lite, a vibrant bar in Santa Monica offering music, laughter, and unforgettable nights.
Acts Of Service Sounds
3.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Venice nightlife at Acts Of Service Sounds, where music and energy collide for an unforgettable evening.
The Venice West
3.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Venice, CA at The Venice West, where delicious food meets live music in a lively bar atmosphere.
Club Sunset
3.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Club Sunset in Venice, CA—where dance, drinks, and unforgettable memories await.
Busby's West
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Busby's West in Santa Monica, where delicious grill cuisine meets lively nightlife for an unforgettable outing.
thelma todd's sidewalk cafe
7.0 km
Experience the charm of Thelma Todd's Sidewalk Café, a historic gem where delicious food meets stunning ocean views in Pacific Palisades, California.
Nightlife Empire
10.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Nightlife Empire, Beverly Hills' premier destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable evenings.
Nightclub Rescue
10.0 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Nightclub Rescue in Beverly Hills, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Grand Havana Room
11.0 km
Experience luxury at the Grand Havana Room in Beverly Hills, where exquisite cigars and fine drinks meet an elegant ambiance.
Jim
11.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Jim Night Club in Beverly Hills, where unforgettable experiences and vibrant music await every visitor.
