It is bordered on the west by the Burke-Gilman Trail and on the east by Matthews Beach, its namesake.

Thornton Creek empties into Lake Washington at the southern end of the park.

The village of too-HOO-beed was of the too-oh-beh-DAHBSH extended family and was near what is now called Thornton Creek in what is now Matthews Beach, near Meadowbrook.

During summer months, a diving platform is anchored offshore, and the beach is staffed by lifeguards.

The park also features a playground, locker rooms, and several picnic tables and barbecue pits.