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.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.