21 of the best things to do in Jindabyne in 2025

There are plenty of things to do in Jindabyne, whether it’s snowfall or sunshine outside.

Jindabyne may be at its busiest and most lively when it’s subzero temperatures outside, but the alpine town – home to a range of cosy lodges and boutique stays – has ample activities up its sleeve for the spring and summer months, too. Here, we’ve found 15 awesome things to do in Jindabyne (and its surrounds), from bushwalking in the Snowy Mountains and fishing in Lake Jindabyne to yoga and pottery classes in town.

1. Hit the slopes during winter

a woman skiing at Charlotte Pass Ski Resort — Hit the slopes in the Snowy Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

What’s the first thing you think of when visiting the Snowy Mountains? Hitting the slopes, of course. Jindabyne is just a 30-minute drive to Thredbo and Perisher, making it a popular and convenient base camp for snow trips. Charlotte Pass Snow Resort is also easily accessible from Jindy: the resort has an Oversnow transport shuttle that runs from the Perisher Valley Skitube Terminal to the slopes.

Skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are available at all resorts, while Perisher is the only resort with dedicated tobogganing areas. If you’re heading to Thredbo, be sure to take a ride on the Alpine Coaster, the first in the Southern Hemisphere to operate year-round.

2. Ride the mountain bike trails in summer

bike riding in Jindabyne, NSW — Hit the tracks once the snow thaws. (Image: Destination NSW)

Come the warmer months, the Snowy Mountains become a mountain bike playground, with a varied terrain of dense bushland and forest, alpine lakes and breathtaking peaks. The Bungarra Alpine Centre is a purpose-built mountain bike park with 20 kilometres of trails catering to all abilities. Or head to Lake Crackenback Resort, just a 20-minute drive from Jindabyne with 18 kilometres of bike trails.

Nearby Thredbo also has the country’s only lift-accessed mountain bike trails, offering 40-plus kilometres throughout the majestic High Country. And if you want to tackle Australia’s highest peak, hit the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Trail, from Charlotte Pass to the summit (the last 1.4-kilometre section needs to be walked).

3. Go bushwalking in Kosciuszko National Park

walking in the Snowy Mountains, NSW — Hike among looming boulders and stunning scenery. (Image: Don Fuchs; Destination NSW)

When the snow melts, the walking tracks of Kosciuszko National Park are revealed. From short walks like the two-hour Thredbo River track to the 55-kilometre Snowies Alpine Walk that runs between Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher and Lake Crackenback, including the summit of Mount Kosciuszko.

Along the way, witness valleys of mountain ash, snow gums, wildflowers (in spring), the Snowy River and granite outcrops. You can also reach the ‘rooftop of Australia’ on a shorter 13-kilometre day walk, starting at the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift at Thredbo. Keep your eye out for wombats, echidnas and wallabies!

4. Take a walk around Lake Jindabyne

sunset over views over Lake Jindabyne — Lake Jindabyne at sunset. (Image: Destination NSW)

From town, you can stretch your legs along the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne. The pathway traces the lake for up to 30 kilometres between Banjo Patterson Park in the centre of Jindabyne, extending east to Tyrolean village over the dam wall and west to Hatchery Bay.

The walk along the lake is spectacular at sunrise and sunset, when you may also spot trout splashing about in the water. It’s also perfect for taking the kids on scooters or bikes.

5. Browse local art or catch a flick

Rain day? Rest day off the mountain? Kids to entertain? Whatever your reason, a day at the movies can be just the ticket. Jindabyne Cinema is located right in town and shows the latest blockbusters. From film to art, Jindabyne Art Gallery is run by local artists in the Jindabyne Memorial Hall. Exhibitions include paintings, photography and sculpture – many of the artists were inspired by the surrounding alpine landscape and mountain culture.

6. Hire a kayak on the lake

kayaking along Lake Jindabyne — Go paddling on the scenic Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap your ski poles for paddles in the summer months and get out onto one of the country’s highest lakes. Kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and sailing are all popular activities on Lake Jindabyne. You can hire water sports equipment from Sacred Ride in town.

7. Take a scenic flight with Snowy Mountains Helicopters

A helicopter flight in the Snowy Mountains, NSW — Land somewhere remote for an unforgettable lunch. (Image: Destination NSW)

Whether the landscape is blanketed in white or covered in wildflowers, these scenic helicopter flights operate year-round. A quick 10-minute flight over Lake Jindabyne will show you the sparkling waterway and surrounding towns from a different perspective.

Choose a 30-minute flight to Mt Kosciuszko to see the country’s highest peak up close and view the ski resorts below. Or fly deeper into the Snowy Mountains with a 60-minute flight over the High Country plains, where you’ll likely see wild brumbies in their natural habitat.

8. Find your zen with a yoga class

Skiing and snowboarding seem to work muscles that you never knew you had. Stretch and unwind at The Jindy Inn, where The Om Collective runs yoga classes daily. There are gentle yoga classes that flow at a more relaxed pace to Hatha-style yoga that focuses on power and lateral poses. The collective occasionally runs yoga and wellness retreats, too, which include accommodation at The Jindy Inn, daily yoga and meals. You can book casual classes or purchase a six-class pack, which is ideal for travellers.

9. Taste local schnapps at Wildbrumby Distillery

Wildbrumby Distillery in Jindabyne, NSW — Sample locally made schnapps at Wildbrumby Distillery. (Image: Destination NSW)

Located between Jindabyne and Thredbo, Wildbrumby is the highest distillery in Australia and uses pristine alpine water and native mountain botanicals in its award-winning schnapps, gin and vodka.

Schnapps flavours include baked apple, butterscotch and limoncello, perfect heart-warming tipples for apres ski. The distillery door is open daily and guests are welcome to partake in tastings. Find something you love? Take it home with you! An onsite cafe is also open from Thursday to Monday and there’s a stunning sculpture garden to wander through, too.

10. Join a foodie tour with Sip the Snowies

a local tasting with Sip the Snowies — Samples drops from a winery, brewery or distillery. (Image: Rhys Newton)

This bespoke culinary tour company takes visitors around the Snowy Mountains, one delicious stop at a time, to showcase local produce and clever providores around the region. Each tour is slightly different but includes two tastings at a winery, brewery or distillery and a grazing platter. Others include a creative workshop, visiting boutique stores in Jindabyne and lunch.

11. Throw in a line at Lake Jindabyne

Lake Jindabyne in NSW — The lake has a huge trout population. (Image: Destination NSW)

Rain, snow or shine, fishing at Lake Jindabyne is a popular activity thanks to its prolific population of trout. Trolling is the easiest method for catching fish here (dragging a baited line through the water from a boat, not the online kind), but fly-fishing is also possible from the shore and best done at first and last light (when the lake is at its most spectacular, too).

If you’re a little unsure of where to start, head out with a local fishing expert from Eucumbene and Jindabyne Fishing Charters , which operates half- and full-day charters. All supplies (think rods, reels, tackle and morning or afternoon tea) are included.

12. Try your hand at pottery

ceramic homewares displayed at Feldmark Pottery, Jindabyne — Take home ceramic pieces from Feldmark Pottery.

Forget a key ring or tea towel. Take home a handmade piece of pottery that you crafted yourself to remember your Snowy Mountains holiday. Feldmark Pottery specialises in functional pieces, with a gallery and studio located in town.

Come by and peruse the ceramic homewares and sculptural pieces by artist Andrei Davidoff, or pre-book a Clay and Graze class to make your own. The three-hour experience will teach you how to create simple vessels on a pottery wheel, while grazing on a platter of local produce and sipping on local wines.

13. Hone your skills at Jindabyne Skate Park

After a whopping 1.5-million-upgrade, Jindabyne Skate Park has reopened to the excitement of local skaters, BMX and scooter riders. It boasts a brand-new half-pipe, mini ramp and refurbished bowl, designed for everyone from beginners to pros, young and old alike. It’s located next to the Jindabyne Bowling Club, on the shores of Lake Jindabyne, and has night lights so the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

14. Museum hop in Cooma

a look inside the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre — Tour the state-of-the-art Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre. (Image: Destination NSW)

The largest town in the Snowy Mountains is a 45-minute drive north of Jindabyne and home to three museums. Dedicated to the incredible engineering feat that is the Snowy Hydro Scheme, the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre explains how the state-of-the-art hydro works and features a virtual flyover experience of the Snowy Mountains.

The Cooma Monaro Railway Museum is housed in the restored Cooma railway station and allows visitors to step back in time to the golden era of train travel. The nearby Motor Museum will get the hearts of car enthusiasts revved up, with its exhibition of historical cars, motorbikes and motoring memorabilia.

15. Explore Thredbo Valley by horseback

Thredbo Valley Horse Riding in NSW — Spend the day horse riding through the Snowy Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Explore the magic of the mountains by horseback with a trail ride that will have you channelling your favourite scene from Man from Snowy River. Located just 15 minutes’ drive from Jindabyne in Crackenback, Thredbo Valley Horse Riding offers short one- and two-hour rides through sub-alpine wilderness and half-day rides that venture further into the valley.

Owner Ned Barrass has played an important role locally in protecting and supporting wild brumbies that would otherwise be culled from regional Wilderness Areas. He has many brumbies at the property. Snowy Wilderness in Jindabyne also offers memorable two to seven-day horse treks, where you’ll stay in wilderness campsites in between exploring the mountain terrain.

16. Browse the boutique stores

a sample bedding at Design & Detail, Jindabyne — Find chic and high-quality furniture at Design & Detail.

The small town of Jindabyne is home to a plethora of stores, many of which specialise in alpine gear and clothing such as Larry Adler and Wilderness Sports – which makes for a great opportunity to upgrade your ski or hiking gear. But it’s not all mountaineering and snow sports. Among these stores you’ll find treasure trove Design & Detail, which stocks high-quality fashion and homewares, Meadow Store for chic clothing, and Mountain Spirit, an ethical and spiritual store selling jewellery, clothing and crafts from around the world.

17. Sip local brews

Beer lovers should make the time to visit Jindabyne Brewing , a family-friendly, warehouse-style brewery tucked away in the backstreets of town, with epic views of Lake Jindabyne. Sample the five regular beers on tap or one of the seasonal beers that change regularly, and stay for a bite to eat from the restaurant, which serves share-style plates, specialising in grilled meats.

18. Rest and recover

an aerial view of Lake Jindabyne — Soak up serene views over Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Destination NSW)

When it comes to post-mountain recovery session, whether winter or summer, sweating it out in a sauna is top of the list. Launching in winter 2025, Snowy Sauna is set within NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park with views over Lake Jindabyne. The Finnish barrel sauna can fit up to six people and can be reserved in 50-minute blocks. Another new business tapping into the benefits of hot and cold therapy is Revive Jindabyne , which is a brand-new build that’s also scheduled to open in winter 2025, and features infrared and traditional saunas, float tanks, compression garments and a treatment room.

19. Shop local produce

the exterior of The Market Jindabyne — Pop into The Market Jindabyne for organic fruit and veggies.

The Market Jindabyne is a gourmet grocery and wholefoods store in the centre of town. Pick up some artisanal cheeses, cured meats, freshly baked bread or organic fruit and veggies to make up a picnic hamper or to stock up your pantry for your stay. They also serve coffee and offer taster plates so you can try some of the produce before you buy.

20. Mark Lake Light Sculpture in the diary

horses at Lake Light Sculpture Jindabyne — Lake Light Sculpture showcases illuminated sculptures by the foreshore.

Held annually over the Easter long weekend, this incredible event sees the shores of Lake Jindabyne turned into an open-air art gallery. A collection of sculpture created by artists across the country line the foreshore, adding interest by day and illuminating the trail at night.

21. Take a snap on the Big Chairlift

Jindabyne is now home to Australia’s newest Big Things. The Big Chairlift was part of the 2025 Lake Light Sculpture event but was so popular that locals rallied together after the event wrapped to raise funds to keep the oversized sculpture. The Big Chairlift by local artist Darragh Walsh will now permanently be displayed on Jindabyne’s foreshore. Jump on and take a snap while you’re in town.

Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Jindabyne.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .