Northeast 130th Street End, officially renamed Lake City Beach Park in 2025, provides 60-foot-wide public beach access on Lake Washington at the eastern terminus of NE 130th Street in Seattle's Lake City neighborhood. The numbered street designation indicates its position 130 blocks from the baseline in Seattle's systematic grid established during late 1800s and early 1900s ordinances. The beach endured a seven-year controversy beginning in 2013 when adjoining property owners erected a fence after discovering a legal technicality from a 1932 deed that was never delivered to Cedar Park Community Club despite conveying the land for public beach use. Seattle threatened eminent domain in 2015, and condemnation proceedings resulted in a 2019 settlement making the site an official city park, with the community successfully advocating for "Lake City" in the name to honor the neighborhood's efforts to preserve public access. This represents the only accessible shoreline street end north of NE 43rd Street and the only public Lake Washington access north of Matthews Beach.
Swimming attracts families and individuals to Lake Washington's freshwater waters during summer months, with the beach providing direct water entry from the Burke-Gilman Trail immediately adjacent to the park. The Burke-Gilman Trail offers walking and cycling access along the lake, connecting the beach to broader recreational opportunities throughout Seattle's lakefront. Kayaking and paddleboarding launch from the beach for exploration of Lake Washington's eastern shoreline with views across to Kirkland, Bellevue, and the Cascade Mountains rising beyond. Beachcombing along the sandy and pebbly shoreline reveals smooth lake stones, driftwood, and occasional finds deposited by seasonal water level fluctuations. Picnicking on the beach accommodates waterside gatherings and family outings with views spanning Lake Washington's expanse. Wildlife watching includes waterfowl including ducks, geese, and occasional loons, great blue herons stalking shallows, bald eagles soaring overhead, and turtles basking on logs near shore.
Lake City dining offers diverse neighborhood options near Northeast 130th Street End. Toyoda Sushi serves award-winning reasonably-priced sushi with complimentary noodle salad and miso soup in this family-owned restaurant ranked among Seattle's best Japanese establishments. Bangkok food truck at the Shell station creates outstanding Thai curries and noodles earning reputation as some of Seattle's greatest Thai food. Jebena Cafe prepares Ethiopian cuisine with affordable prices allowing three people to dine for around twenty dollars. Mioposto Pizzeria features pizza, friendly service, and happy hour specials. Hellbent Brewing Company offers craft beers, patio seating, and arcade games. Santorini Pizza and Pasta serves pizza and Italian dishes to Matthews Beach, Victory Heights, and surrounding neighborhoods.
