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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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.

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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.

Bate Bay’s sweep of beaches has been crowned Australia’s best for 2026, placing Sutherland Shire in the spotlight as a top coastal destination just south of Sydney’s CBD.

The beaches fringing Bate Bay – Cronulla, North Cronulla, Wanda, Elouera and Greenhills – have topped Tourism Australia’s 2026 list of best Australian beaches (as curated by Beach Ambassador Brad Farmer). For locals, it’s less revelation, more recognition.

The mood shifts from the moment you step off the T4 train service from Central to Cronulla and catch a glimpse of the ocean. At dawn, the Esplanade is already buzzing with regulars, and by mid-morning, parents have staked out a toasty spot on Cronulla Beach where excited toddlers clamber over rocks, and the Jellybean swim squad at Oak Park have donned their bright pink caps while singing Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’.

By the afternoon, towels are being collected from across the sand as visitors wander back to Cronulla in loose formation.

North Cronulla beach — Dive into the world’s best beaches.

That’s the thing about Bate Bay beaches. This isn’t a story about a single beach. This long, uninterrupted sweep of sand and sea, where you can walk for kilometres without breaking stride, is not just enjoyed over summer; it’s a year-round destination. Here, Cronulla’s buzz gives way to Wanda’s wild edges, before stretching out to the quieter reaches of Greenhills.

But while Bate Bay’s beaches may have taken top honours in the 2026 Best Australian Beaches list, they’re only part of the drawcard. Sutherland Shire stacks up as a full-spectrum coastal escape, where good food, national park adventures and on-the-water experiences sit within easy reach of the shoreline. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or stretching out a stay, here’s how to make the most of Cronulla beyond the sand, sea and surf.

Beyond the beaches

Dining

The Sutherland Shire dining scene delivers from early morning to late at night with a mix of vibrant cafes, bars and pubs. Start your day at Grind Espresso, where the coffee comes strong and fast. From there, drift towards HAM for pastries, best eaten buttery warm.

By midday, locals linger across sun-lit tables. Loaf and Next Door appeal to the surfers who come in for snacks after chasing waves. Blackwood’s Pantry and The Press are also popular for breakfast and lunch, while Pilgrim’s continues to hold a special place in the hearts of vegans.

Newer arrivals signal where Cronulla is heading: Homer Rogue Taverna is being hailed as one of the best restaurants in Cronulla, with the confidence that comes from understanding what locals want. Ask a local to reveal their favourite restaurant for a special occasion, and it’ll likely be Pino’s Vino e Cucina al Mare, Yalla Sawa or Alphabet Street. Summer Salt, Sealevel, Benny’s, Bobbys and Pippis are a few of the best waterfront restaurants in the Shire.

Finally, when most places are winding down, Duke’s Providore shifts gears to become Duke’s After Hours – a low-lit romantic spot perfect for a date night. Parc Pavilion, Northies Cronulla and bars The Blind Bear, Las Chicas and Low & Lofty’s are also part of Cronulla’s identity.

Visit Bundeena

Bundeena Ferry Wharf — Catch a ferry to Bundeena.

A short ferry ride from Cronulla, Bundeena offers a counterpoint to Cronulla’s mighty surf beaches. If Cronulla is the Shire’s social heart, Bundeena – or Bundenesia, as it’s affectionately known – is the place to go to exhale and unwind.

Hop on the ferry from Cronulla, and within 30 minutes, you’ll be inhaling the eucalyptus-scented air. Check the creative pulse of the local community by timing your visit with the Bundeena Maianbar Art Trail on the first Sunday of every month.

One of the best things to do in Bundeena is paddle into Cabbage Tree Basin with Bundeena Kayaks. Follow the five-kilometre Jibbon Beach Loop Track that leads past quiet coves to ancient Indigenous rock art, or simply find a stretch of pearl-white sand to relax on.

Pristine walking trails

Royal National Park Cape Baily Walking Track — Cool off with a coastal stroll.

Beyond the coastline, Sutherland Shire offers myriad ways to shift gears. Royal National Park – the oldest national park in Australia – sits just minutes from the surf. Clifftop walks trace the edge of the continent, the rugged bushland is threaded with creeks and hidden waterfalls, and a network of tracks rewards those willing to go a little further.

Take the Coast Track, where the land drops cleanly into the ocean over sheer cliffs that have been stacked together like giant Jenga. Or veer inland, where pockets of forest cool the air and filter the light. It’s a reminder of how close nature sits to the bustle of suburbs in the Sutherland Shire.

Enjoy whale watching

humpback whale sighting noosa experiences — Spot whales from May to October. (Credit: The Edit Suite)

Twist your binoculars until the ocean is in focus, stretched like a creased blue sheet all around. Come May, the East Coast becomes the humpback highway. Thousands of whales migrate along this stretch of coastline each year, their movements tracked by keen eyes from vantage points like the Cape Solander platform in Kamay Botany Bay National Park, one of the best places for whale watching in Australia. There’s something quietly thrilling about seeing that first telltale spout or the arc of a breaching body against the vastness of the sea. From June to October, whale-watching cruises depart from Cronulla, offering a closer look at the migration.

Awards come and go. But places like Cronulla endure because they belong as much to the visitors as they do the early-morning swimmers, walkers and surfers.

Plan your escape at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.