A few steps south of the Pier volleyball courts is the International Chess Park, Santa Monica’s unique, sun-bathed, ocean-cooled version of New York City’s Washington Square Park. Refurbished, expanded, and greatly enhanced in recent years, these public chess tables—and a human-scale chessboard set into the sidewalk—draw a wide assortment of players.

Although level of play is generally high and the overall tone fairly serious, open tables are free for public use, and observers are always welcome.