Orange County Casual Chess

Diedrich's Coffee House In the Irvine Spectrum

Where? In Diedrich's coffee house at the fun filled Irvine Spectrum. Where the 5 and the 405 intersect.

When ? Every Wednesday and Friday night starting about 6pm and going until 11pm.

Who? Many expert and master players. Even a few fide masters stop by. This is a relatively strong scene. If you are a beginner, it is best to bring your set and challenge another casual player rather than try to get involved in the blitz tournament.

What types of chess? These guys have a casual speed chess tournament going. It is called a ladder. Usually they have 6 or more boards, with all the games starting at the same time. The winner moves up one board and the loser moves down one board. This way the top players eventually rise to the top and the weaker players fall to the bottom.

Noteworthy players: Arturo, Dave Gliksman, Robbie.

Laguna Beach Main Beach

Where? This is reputed as being one of the most beautiful chess playing spots in the world. Main Beach on the pacific coast highway next to the famous basketball and volleyball courts.

When ? Weekends after 2pm going until night fall.

Who? A casual group of players although a few strong players drop by.

What types of chess? This is a laid back scene but it is mostly speed chess with a few slow caual games.

Noteworthy players: Les, Vladamir.

If you know any playing scenes that happen on a regular basis in Orange County, please email our webmaster at: info@academicchess.org. Also please email any pictures you have of the above scenes.