Side-by-side comparison
Westgate Resorts vs. Vistana (Sheraton / Westin) (2026)
Westgate Resorts and Vistana Signature Experiences sit on opposite ends of the timeshare quality and exit-flexibility spectrum. Westgate is privately held, mid-market, and widely cited as hard to exit. Vistana is premium-tier (Sheraton and Westin-branded), MVW-owned since 2018, with stronger brand consistency and exit options.
Head-to-head
| Attribute | Westgate | Vistana |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Westgate Points | StarOptions |
| Parent | Westgate Resorts (privately held by Central Florida Investments) | Marriott Vacations Worldwide (acquired 2018) |
| Resort count | 22+ | 20+ |
| Typical allocation | 50,000–500,000 | 30,000–200,000 |
| Rental value per point | $0.004–$0.010 | $0.025–$0.055 |
The verdict
Which is better?
Vistana is the clearly better program for almost every owner. Premium Sheraton/Westin brand consistency, MVW ownership which is generally owner-friendly, stronger per-StarOption rental value, and a working resale market for premium properties. Westgate has specific standout resorts (Park City, Smoky Mountain) but the contract structure makes monetization and exit difficult. For new buyers, Vistana wins; for existing Westgate owners, the realistic path is use the points or work with specialized services.
Which one fits you?
Pick Westgate when:
- ✓You specifically want Westgate Park City or Westgate Smoky Mountain
- ✓You bought Westgate at deep resale discount
- ✓You're not planning to exit and can use the points
- ✓The Westgate-specific experience matters
Pick Vistana when:
- ✓Westin Ka'anapali, Princeville, or St. John are targets
- ✓Premium Sheraton/Westin brand consistency matters
- ✓Working resale market and exit flexibility matter
- ✓Per-StarOption rental value and brand strength matter
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