We're not really sure why this park dedicated to pawns, kings and the like is "international," but we're banking on seeing at least one Russian chess master.

There's more than body worship happening at the beach in Santa Monica. The International Chess Park hums from sunup to sundown with contenders playing chess at 25 tables with 80 seats set up free for the public. It's not only Bobby Fischer types, so novices need not fear parking on one of the benches. There's a large demonstration board and pick-up games for players of all skill levels. And nobody will throw a rook at your head if you're just there to observe. And for those who are still trying master Connect Four, feel free to take some funny pictures on park's life-size chess board. Just don't disturb the more serious looking players.