Published October 25, 2025
In 2025, many U.S. travelers are rethinking their Thanksgiving plans, opting for a sunny beach over a traditional turkey dinner. With its warm climate, luxurious all-inclusive resorts, and stunning coastal beauty, Punta Cana has emerged as the ultimate destination for those seeking an unconventional vacation. As Americans increasingly trade family gatherings for exotic vacations, Punta Cana offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural attractions, making it a top choice for those looking to escape the cold and create new Thanksgiving memories in paradise. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, enjoying gourmet dining, or enjoying water sports, Punta Cana promises a Thanksgiving experience like no other.
Thanksgiving will be a sunny day for many U.S. travelers this year. As the holiday, traditionally marked by turkeys and family gatherings, approaches, more Americans are heading to the tropical paradise of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Recent travel data reveals that Punta Cana is the leading destination for U.S. travelers this Thanksgiving. The region’s combination of beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and easy access make it an attractive option for those seeking a break from tradition.
Transition to a tropical vacation
There is a growing trend towards more unconventional holidays. Punta Cana topped the list as the most popular destination for U.S. travelers during Thanksgiving, according to Travel Search for stays from November 26 to November 30, 2025. This holiday is usually centered around family and familiar food, but many people choose to swap out the usual festivities for a relaxing getaway in the warmth of the Caribbean Sea.
Punta Cana’s surge in popularity this holiday season is part of a broader trend in which travelers prioritize experiences over traditions. This Caribbean destination offers an ideal setting for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to escape the stress of vacation prep and cold weather and relax in a tropical paradise. Instead of gathering around the dinner table, Americans are now choosing to gather on sandy beaches and enjoy the sun with a drink in hand.
Why Punta Cana is the perfect Thanksgiving destination
Punta Cana offers several important advantages for travelers looking for a hassle-free Thanksgiving. With direct flights from major U.S. cities and easy access to destinations, it’s convenient for those looking to get away for just a few days without having to spend a lot of time traveling. Punta Cana’s proximity to the United States allows travelers to maximize their time in the sun while minimizing travel time.
One of the area’s big draws is its abundance of luxury all-inclusive resorts. From luxury beachfront accommodations to family-friendly hotels, Punta Cana offers a variety of options for every type of traveler. These resorts not only offer world-class amenities, but also simplify your travel experience by incorporating dining, entertainment, and activities into your package. This all-in-one model is especially appealing during the holiday season when you want a seamless and stress-free vacation.
Additionally, Punta Cana’s warm climate is almost guaranteed throughout the year. Consistently mild temperatures and beautiful skies allow visitors to spend an idyllic beach day lounging by the pool or enjoying water sports in the ocean. This stable climate makes Punta Cana an attractive destination for those looking for a place to escape the cold and truly relax.
Punta Cana’s growing popularity in the Caribbean
Punta Cana’s rise as a Thanksgiving hotspot also reflects broader trends in Caribbean tourism. The Dominican Republic is already one of the most visited countries in the region, with a particularly noticeable increase in visitors from the United States. Tourists are drawn to the country’s record tourism growth and expanding portfolio of luxury resorts. Punta Cana, in particular, has become the epicenter of this boom, offering visitors a combination of world-class hospitality, a safe environment, and a wide range of entertainment options.
The growth of new hotels and resorts, including properties from major hotel chains, has further enhanced Punta Cana’s appeal. As tourism infrastructure has improved, destinations have become more accessible to all types of travelers, catering to an increasingly wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, honeymoon, or solo retreat, Punta Cana has everything you could want for a tropical getaway.
Redefining Thanksgiving: More than just a family feast
The growing number of U.S. travelers seeking alternative destinations for Thanksgiving signals a shift in the way people approach the holiday. Traditionally, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family, share a meal, and reflect on the things we are grateful for. However, many people are now choosing to use this time to explore new destinations, get away from the stresses of everyday life, and create unforgettable memories in a new environment.
Punta Cana’s growing popularity this Thanksgiving is part of this new holiday culture. It’s no longer about staying at home and preparing a feast. It’s about creating experiences and spending quality time in an environment that fosters relaxation, fun, and connection with loved ones. From beachfront barbecues to spa days to group activities at resorts, the concept of Thanksgiving is being reinvented as an opportunity to focus on the experience rather than the expectations.
The Future of Thanksgiving Travel in Punta Cana
Thanksgiving 2025 is just around the corner, and Punta Cana is poised for one of its most successful holiday seasons ever. Demand for tropical, experiential vacations is on the rise, and the Dominican Republic is quickly establishing itself as one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations. As the number of U.S. tourists continues to increase in Punta Cana, it’s clear that the traditional Thanksgiving holiday is coming to an end.
In 2025, Punta Cana will be the ultimate Thanksgiving destination for U.S. travelers, redefining traditional holiday celebrations with exotic getaways and warm-weather getaways at luxury resorts and beautiful beaches.
Over the next few years, we expect to see more and more travelers embrace this new way of celebrating the holiday. As travelers continue to seek out destinations that offer equal parts relaxation and adventure, the appeal of warm weather, luxury accommodations, and a relaxed atmosphere will only grow stronger. Punta Cana’s emergence as a popular Thanksgiving destination is just the beginning of a broader change in how the holiday is celebrated. For those looking for an escape to paradise, the Dominican Republic is the place to be.
