5 Top Leisure and Recreation Stocks to Consider Buying as Demand Surges in 2026

Leisure and Recreation Sector Shows Strong Growth

The leisure and recreation services and products sectors are experiencing notable progress, fueled by streamlined operations, robust collaborations, and advancements in digital technology. In the United States, higher disposable incomes have led to increased spending on leisure activities, further supported by a rise in personal consumption.

Top 5 Leisure and Recreation Stocks to Watch

After careful analysis, we have identified five standout stocks in the leisure and recreation industry that present promising investment opportunities. These companies are:

• Expedia Group Inc. (EXPE)
• Viking Holdings Ltd. (VIK)
• Johnson Outdoors Inc. (JOUT)
• Callaway Golf Co. (CALY)
• MasterCraft Boat Holdings Inc. (MCFT)

Each of these stocks currently holds a Zacks Rank of either #1 (Strong Buy) or #2 (Buy).

Expedia Group Inc. (EXPE)

Expedia Group, rated Zacks Rank #1, delivered a robust fourth quarter with adjusted earnings climbing 58% year-over-year, surpassing expectations. Revenue also grew by 11.4%. The company’s strong B2B performance was evident, with segment revenue and gross bookings up 24%, and advertising revenue increasing by 19%.

Total gross bookings reached $27 billion, reflecting an 11% rise, supported by steady demand for lodging and higher booked room nights. Profitability also improved, as adjusted EBITDA grew 32% and margins expanded by 368 basis points, underscoring effective operational management.

For the current year, Expedia anticipates revenue growth of 7.3% and earnings growth of 20.7%. The consensus earnings estimate has increased by 7.2% over the past month.

Viking Holdings Ltd. (VIK)

Viking Holdings, with a Zacks Rank #2, is capitalizing on strong consumer interest and a healthy booking environment. The company is targeting affluent travelers to navigate market challenges, and increased onboard spending is a positive indicator.

Viking is investing in enhancing guest experiences and leveraging digital solutions across its fleet to boost satisfaction and efficiency. The company is also expanding its fleet and diversifying geographically to support future growth.

Viking projects revenue growth of 12.9% and earnings growth of 25.7% for the current year, with earnings estimates remaining stable over the last 30 days.

Johnson Outdoors Inc. (JOUT)

Johnson Outdoors, holding a Zacks Rank #1, is a global leader in outdoor recreation, known for transforming ideas into adventure through innovative products. The company designs, manufactures, and markets a diverse range of brands in watercraft, marine electronics, diving, and outdoor equipment.

Its well-known brands include Old Town, Ocean Kayak, Necky, Lendal, Escape, Minn Kota, Cannon, Humminbird, Bottom Line, Fishin' Buddy, Scubapro, UWATEC, Silva, and Eureka!.

For the fiscal year ending September 2026, Johnson Outdoors expects revenue to rise by 9.5% and earnings to more than double. The consensus earnings estimate has improved by 9.5% in the past month.

Callaway Golf Co. (CALY)

Callaway Golf, rated Zacks Rank #1, is a leading provider of premium golf equipment, apparel, and accessories, with brands such as Callaway Golf, Odyssey, TravisMathew, and OGIO. The company operates in three segments: Topgolf, Golf Equipment, and Active Lifestyle, and serves customers worldwide.

Despite an anticipated revenue decline of 42.3% for the current year, earnings are projected to surge by 85.7%. The consensus earnings estimate has increased by 14.7% over the past week.

MasterCraft Boat Holdings Inc. (MCFT)

MasterCraft Boat, with a Zacks Rank #1, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing recreational powerboats through its subsidiaries, including MasterCraft and Pontoon. The company offers boats, trailers, replacement parts, accessories, and pontoon boats.

For the year ending June 2026, MasterCraft expects revenue to grow by 8.3% and earnings by 64.1%. The consensus earnings estimate has jumped by 21.8% in the last 30 days.

Analyst’s Top Pick for Potential Doubling

Zacks’ research team has identified five stocks with the highest potential to gain over 100% in the coming months. Among these, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights one standout pick.

This leading choice is a lesser-known satellite communications company, positioned to benefit from the rapidly expanding space industry, which is expected to reach a trillion-dollar valuation. The company’s customer base is growing quickly, and analysts predict a significant revenue surge in 2025. While not all top picks achieve such results, this stock could outperform previous winners like Hims & Hers Health, which soared by 209%.

Additional Resources