Playing Over the Board Since 1937.
SMBCC is Los Angeles’ longest running chess club. Our mission is to nurture competitive chess for the people of Southern California.
Play One Classical Time Control Game Per Week
- Tuesdays from 7 PM to 11 PM
- Tournaments rated by United States Chess Federation
- Most tournaments are 4 Round Swiss with classical time control (example 90min +10sec increment)
- Occasional blitz and rapid tournaments
- Entry fee: $10 for members, $25 for non-members
- Club Membership: $75 / year
Next Tournament starts September 23rd, 2025 (two rounds of rapid). Email smbchess@yahoo.com with questions.
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90 Years of Tradition
Chess was played in Santa Monica since the 1930’s. The area adjacent to Muscle Beach just south of the pier was designated as Chess Park. An informal club coalesced in 1937 as members found various venues like nearby cafes in downtown Santa Monica where they could play chess when the park closed after dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
How good at chess do I need to be to play in a tournament?
You must want to play long, rated tournament games, which can last up to three or four hours. If you’re up for that kind of game, then you can be any skill level. We use the US Chess Federation’s rankings to determine which group of players you play against. The club has a wide range of players rated from the hundreds to the two thousands. Cash prizes are awarded to different rating groups, so anyone can win a prize.
Do I have to join the club to play in a tournament?
No. Non-club members can enter a tournament but club members pay a lower entry fee. You can become a club member for $75 annually. Participation in a tournament requires USCF membership https://new.uschess.org/join-us-chess as events are rated by it. See our tournament schedule on this site. Email the club at smbchess@yahoo.com to let us know you want to enter a tournament. Come to St. Andrew’s church at 7:00 PM on the first Tuesday night of the event and sign up with a $25 entry fee (cash please) or If you become a club member, your entry fee will be $10. Be sure to bring a pen, your set if you prefer, and a chess timer if you have one (preferably).
Do I have to play the entire tournament?
While committing to all rounds is preferred, you can miss a round with advanced notice. You can receive a half point per game not played in the first two rounds. If you can’t make either of the last two rounds, you would not receive any points. Advanced notice of missing any round is required, which can be provided by emailing the club at smbchess@yahoo.com.
What do I need to bring?
It’s best to bring a pen, score sheet, personal chess set, and chess clock. We have extra of all these items at the club if you forget something.