Side-by-side comparison
Diamond Resorts vs. Vistana (Sheraton / Westin) (2026)
Diamond Resorts and Vistana Signature Experiences are both mid-to-premium tier points programs under major corporate parents (HGV for Diamond since 2021, Marriott Vacations Worldwide for Vistana since 2018). They target different travelers — Diamond on resort variety across Sedona, Vegas, Hawaii Big Island; Vistana on premium Sheraton/Westin properties with Hawaii (Ka'anapali, Princeville) and St. John as flagships.
Get my free cash offer →Head-to-head
| Attribute | Diamond | Vistana |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Diamond Points | StarOptions |
| Parent | Hilton Grand Vacations, Inc. (acquired 2021) | Marriott Vacations Worldwide (acquired 2018) |
| Resort count | 70+ (now operating under HGV Max) | 20+ |
| Typical allocation | 2,500–100,000 | 30,000–200,000 |
| Rental value per point | 8¢–18¢ | 2.5¢–5.5¢ |
The verdict
Which is better?
Vistana is the better-positioned program in 2026. Premium Sheraton/Westin brand consistency, MVW ownership which has improved owner-side terms, and stronger per-StarOption rental value relative to Diamond per-point (when adjusted for allocation size). Diamond has HGV Max integration with the Hilton network, which adds breadth, but Diamond contracts continue to carry reputational overhang and trade at deeper resale discounts. For new buyers and for owners considering swaps, Vistana wins.
Which one fits you?
Pick Diamond when:
- ✓You want Sedona, Williamsburg, or Vegas Strip properties
- ✓HGV Max cross-booking with Hilton resorts matters
- ✓You bought Diamond at deep resale discount
- ✓You're betting on HGV continuing to improve Diamond positioning
Pick Vistana when:
- ✓Westin Ka'anapali, Westin Princeville, or Westin St. John are targets
- ✓Premium Sheraton/Westin brand consistency matters
- ✓You're considering MVC Destination Points conversion later
- ✓Per-StarOption rental value and resale recovery matter