Published October 25, 2025
This Thanksgiving, American tourists will head to Punta Cana, the most visited destination in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana is the top choice for Thanksgiving vacation in 2025, according to recent data revealed by Hilton, with more people opting for warm beaches over the usual holiday festivities.
Hilton’s findings are based on search data for four-night stays between Nov. 26 and Nov. 30, 2025, a peak travel period for many Americans. The data clearly shows an increasing trend. Travelers are choosing sunny beaches and luxury resorts over the usual holiday gatherings. Punta Cana’s status as a top Thanksgiving destination represents a shift in holiday travel preferences, as more people look to combine relaxation and adventure over a long weekend.
Why Punta Cana is trending for Thanksgiving travel
Several factors make Punta Cana popular among U.S. travelers this Thanksgiving season.
Accessibility: With direct flights from major U.S. cities, Punta Cana is an easily accessible destination and an attractive option for travelers looking to extend their vacation. All-Inclusive Resorts: The region has an abundance of luxury all-inclusive resorts that appeal to families, couples, and groups looking for convenience and value. These resorts offer everything from fine dining and spa services to beach activities and cultural experiences. Perfect Climate: Known for its year-round sunny climate, Punta Cana offers warm temperatures that are especially appealing for those looking to escape the cold weather typical of Thanksgiving in the United States. Rich Cultural Experiences: Beyond the resort, Punta Cana is also home to a vibrant culture, from local music and cuisine to tours that explore the natural beauty and heritage of the Dominican Republic.
Hilton’s expanding role in Punta Cana
Hilton is capitalizing on this trend by expanding its real estate portfolio in the region. Two notable options for Thanksgiving travelers are:
Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort: Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, this resort offers an immersive experience with 10 dining options, multiple pools, and a full-service spa. The resort also offers a selection of cultural experiences for guests who want to enjoy the local heritage while relaxing in a luxurious setting. Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Adult Resort & Spa: Located in La Romana, this adults-only resort offers a tranquil setting perfect for those seeking a quiet and relaxing vacation. This resort offers upscale amenities and extensive leisure options to meet the needs of travelers seeking a tranquil retreat.
These properties are just one example of Hilton’s growing presence in the Dominican Republic, where the company is responding to growing demand for high-end all-inclusive options in the popular tropical destination.
Changing Thanksgiving travel trends
Punta Cana’s rise as a top Thanksgiving destination is part of a broader trend that is reshaping how Americans spend the holiday. Traditionally, Thanksgiving has focused on family gatherings and home-cooked meals. However, many Americans are now choosing to take advantage of the extended weekend and travel to destinations that offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury.
This shift is reflected in Hilton’s 2025 Travel Trends Report, which highlights the growing desire for experiential vacations. Punta Cana’s combination of luxury accommodations, cultural experiences, and natural beauty make it an attractive choice for travelers looking to redefine their Thanksgiving celebrations. Rather than sticking to the traditional family dinner, more and more people are seeking destinations that offer a stress-free environment where they can both relax and explore.
What this means for US travelers
Punta Cana’s rise as a Thanksgiving hotspot signals a shift in the way U.S. travelers approach the holiday season. As more and more people prioritize experience over tradition, tropical destinations like Punta Cana are becoming an increasingly popular choice for families, couples, and solo travelers. With the trend toward sun-soaked all-inclusive resorts, it’s easier than ever to have a memorable, relaxing holiday without the stress that often comes with home gatherings.
For those looking to travel over the Thanksgiving weekend, Punta Cana offers accessible, high-quality options. With world-class resorts, beautiful beaches, and a rich culture, it provides the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable vacation. The ease of travel combined with an abundance of luxury accommodations and activities means travelers can spend less time planning and more time enjoying their well-deserved vacation.
Punta Cana’s charm grows for Thanksgiving 2025
Punta Cana becoming the most popular Thanksgiving destination for American travelers in 2025 means a major shift in holiday travel preferences. In addition to all-inclusive resorts, Playa del Carmen has a warm climate and diverse culture, which are already very attractive to most visitors, making this the perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving in a different or non-traditional way. The holiday period, which is traditionally the time when most travelers can afford to take a vacation, will see more and more of the world’s tropical destinations like Punta Cana being the main choice, offering relaxation, taking part in the holiday season, and staying in beautiful locations.
