Published on July 15, 2026
Media Contact: David Wolbrecht Communications Program Manager dwolbrecht@kirklandwa.gov
Houghton Beach remains closed this week based on test results that continue to indicate elevated bacteria levels. The beach has been closed since Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The beach will remain closed for at least one additional week until testing results meet the reopening criteria.
Water quality staff from the King County Water and Land Resources Division tested the water recently and found that the levels of bacteria exceeded safe thresholds for bacteria based on the samples collected. King County crews will return to the beach next week to collect further samples.
For additional details, visit King County’s Lake Swimming Beach Data webpage.
Updates about Houghton Beach Park will be posted on the City’s website.
Why is the swimming area closed? Swim beaches throughout King County are tested weekly by the King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks. If beach water tests high for bacteria, the swimming area will be closed. For testing information or to see which beaches are open/closed, please visit the King County Lake Swimming Beach Bacteria page.
Do you want to be notified of swim beach closures and reopening? Join the King County Lake Beach Alert mailing list.
###
Interested in receiving City of Kirkland news right in your inbox? Subscribe to This Week in Kirkland. Looking for help or information? Report non-emergency issues, request services, and ask questions through Our Kirkland.
King County Lake Swimming Beach Data Program
NE 85th Street Shared-use Pathway