The Pacific Coast Open is back, and it’s bigger than ever. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this long-running tournament is set to take place from August 8–10, 2025, at the Hilton Orange County Airport Hotel in Irvine, California. Chess players from all over the country and beyond, are heading to Southern California to battle for glory, rating points, and their share of the $30,000 guaranteed prize fund.
A Heritage Event That Keeps Growing
What started three decades ago as a regional event has become one of the major stops on the U.S. chess circuit. This year’s Pacific Coast Open is a US Chess Heritage Event, part of the Enhanced Grand Prix with 150 Grand Prix points, and also counts toward the US Chess Junior Grand Prix.
With 7 sections, multiple schedule options, and FIDE-rated divisions, the tournament offers something for everyone, from young beginners to elite Grandmasters.
The Venue: Chess Meets Comfort
Once again, the Hilton Orange County Airport Hotel hosts the event. Located at 18800 Macarthur Blvd. in Irvine, it’s just minutes from the airport and offers free shuttle service, a pool, whirlpool, and fitness center. Parking is available for $18/day with the special chess rate. Players can reserve hotel rooms at a discounted rate of $169 per night, but only if booked by July 17.
Two Schedules, One Goal
Players can choose between two formats:
- 3-day schedule: Starts Friday, August 8. Rounds at 12 pm and 6 pm (Friday), 11 am and 5 pm (Saturday), and 10 am and 3:30 pm (Sunday).
- 2-day schedule: Starts Saturday, August 9. It’s a faster pace with four rounds on Saturday (10 am, 12:15 pm, 2:30 pm, 5 pm), then two rounds on Sunday.
Both schedules merge after round 3, so everyone competes for the same prizes in their section.
Big Names in the Premier Section
The Premier section, open to players rated 2000 and above, is stacked with top talent. Leading the pack is GM Francesco Sonis of Italy (FIDE 2567) and GM Fidel Corrales Jimenez (USCF 2618), who also won last year’s edition with a score of 5.5/6. Other strong players include:
- GM Melikset Khachiyan (USCF 2470)
- GM Enrico Sevillano (USCF 2371)
- FM Rose Atwell (USCF 2348)
- FM Julian Colville (USCF 2337)
- FM Michael Casella (USCF 2249)
- CM Brandon Jiang (USCF 2191)
With such depth, expect fierce competition and some exciting games from the very first round.
Section Prizes: Something for Everyone
Here’s a breakdown of the prize money across all 7 sections:
Premier (2000+)
- $3,000 – $1,500 – $1,000 – $700
- $100 bonus for clear or tiebreak 1st
- Best U2300: $1,400 – $700
(FIDE rated)
Under 2100 / Under 1900
- $2,000 – $1,000 – $600 – $400
(U2100 is FIDE rated)
Under 1700 / Under 1500 / Under 1300
- $1,600 – $800 – $500 – $300
Under 1000
- $1,000 – $500 – $300 – $200
Mixed Doubles Bonus
- Best male + female team (combined score across all sections):
$1,000 – $500 – $300 – $200
Team must average below 2200 rating. Must register before Round 2.
Entry Fees and Discounts
- Top 6 sections: 8 online by August 5. $180 after that or on-site. No checks, credit cards accepted.
- Under 1000: $20 less than other sections.
- Re-entry: $70 (except Premier-to-Premier not allowed).
- GMs pay only $150 deducted from prize.
- Southern California Chess Federation members save $5 online.
Rating Rules and Other Notes
- August official USCF ratings will be used. If you’re unrated, your Online Regular Rating will usually apply.
- Foreign ratings may be used if higher than USCF.
- World Open Rule: If you scored 8+ points in U2200 or below at the 2025 World Open, you must move up a section.
Other Highlights
- Blitz Side Event: Saturday at 9:30 pm. Register by 9:10 pm.
- Bring your own equipment. No boards, sets, or clocks provided.
- Unrated prize limits: These apply to players without official USCF ratings, with prize caps ranging from $150 (U1000) to $700 (U1900).
- Byes: Half-point byes allowed in any round, limit 2. Must be requested before Round 3.
How to Register
- Online only at chessaction.com.
- No mailed entries.
- Refunds allowed with a $15 service charge.
- Questions? Email: director@chess.us or visit chesstour.com.
Looking Back: 2024 Pacific Coast Open Recap
In last year’s 29th edition, GM Fidel Corrales Jimenez dominated the Premier section with a 5.5/6 score. He defeated top competitors including GM Arman Mikaelyan, IM John Bryant, and FM Mikayel Rostomyan. The event drew strong players from across the country and once again showed why the Pacific Coast Open is one of the top chess events on the West Coast.
A Tournament Worth Traveling For
Whether you’re a Grandmaster, an ambitious club player, or a parent bringing your young star, the 30th Pacific Coast Open promises top-tier competition, generous prizes, and a vibrant chess atmosphere. The mix of seasoned pros and rising stars, paired with the beautiful Southern California location, makes this an event you won’t want to miss.
So mark your calendar, pack your bags, and prepare your best opening lines. The Pacific Coast Open is calling.
I’m a passionate board game enthusiast and a skilled player in chess, xiangqi and Go. Words for Attacking Chess since 2023. Ping me at Lichess for a game or chat.
