Thanksgiving may be rooted in tradition — but this year, many Americans are trading turkey and stuffing for palm trees and turquoise water. According to new data from Hilton, Punta Cana is the number one trending destination for U.S. travelers this Thanksgiving holiday.
The findings are based on searches for four-night stays between Nov. 26 and Nov. 30, 2025, a peak window for holiday travel. Punta Cana topped the list, signaling a clear shift toward warm-weather escapes as more travelers look to extend the long weekend into a tropical getaway.
A Strong Holiday Travel Season
Hilton’s data points to a broader trend of Americans embracing more flexible, experience-focused holiday travel. With its direct airlift from multiple U.S. gateways, luxury all-inclusive resorts and consistently warm weather, Punta Cana checks every box for an easy Thanksgiving escape.
This surge also reflects the continued strength of the Dominican Republic as one of the Caribbean’s most in-demand destinations, buoyed by record-breaking tourism numbers and a growing portfolio of new resorts — including a new Hilton.
Beyond the Traditional Thanksgiving
Instead of staying close to home, more travelers are leaning toward destinations where they can relax by the beach or enjoy a resort stay with family and friends. Punta Cana’s rise to the top of the search rankings underscores a shift in how Americans want to spend the holiday — turning a time traditionally centered around the table into a chance to unwind in the tropics.
From beachfront resorts to world-class hospitality brands, the Dominican Republic’s leading tourism hub is set to welcome one of its strongest Thanksgiving travel seasons yet.
Caitlin Sullivan
2025-10-24 13:21:00