Thanksgiving may be rooted in tradition, but this year many Americans are trading in the turkey and its stuffing for palm trees and turquoise water. Punta Cana is the most popular destination for U.S. travelers this Thanksgiving holiday, according to new data from Hilton.
The findings are based on searches for four-night stays from November 26 to November 30, 2025, a peak period for holiday travel. Punta Cana tops the list, signaling a clear shift towards warmer climate vacations as more travelers look to extend their long weekends into tropical getaways.
Strong holiday travel season
Hilton’s data shows a broader trend as Americans embrace more flexible, experiential vacation travel. Flying directly from multiple U.S. gateways, luxurious all-inclusive resorts, and a consistently warm climate, Punta Cana checks all the boxes for an easy Thanksgiving.
The surge also reflects the Dominican Republic’s continued strength as one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations, driven by record visitor numbers and a growing portfolio of new resorts, including the new Hilton.
Beyond traditional Thanksgiving
Instead of staying close to home, more travelers are looking for destinations where they can relax on the beach or enjoy a resort stay with family and friends. Punta Cana’s rise to the top of search rankings highlights a shift in how Americans want to spend their vacations, turning what was traditionally spent around the table into an opportunity to relax in the tropics.
From beachfront resorts to world-class hospitality brands, the Dominican Republic’s leading tourism hubs are celebrating their most active Thanksgiving travel season ever.
