Hyatt made headlines a few years back by spending $3 freaking billion to become the largest all-inclusive operator in the world, and Hilton responded shortly after by taking over Hyatt’s exclusive partnership with Small Luxury Hotels and integrating it into the their program.
We love a good competition around here.
With both brands entering the luxury all-inclusive space, you now have more options — but also more questions about which brand offers the better experience for points redemptions, service, and overall value. Let’s break it all down!
Hyatt Points vs. Hilton Points
Hyatt tends to offer better value when redeeming points for all-inclusive stays.
For example, a standard night at the Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay — a Category D Hyatt property — can be booked for 30k World of Hyatt points, which has a redemption value around 2.83 cents per point based on cash rates.
On the flip side, Hilton Honors redemptions typically stretch a little less. At the S Hotel Jamaica, a Small Luxury Hotels property under Hilton, Brendan and Erin booked two nights for 200k Hilton points, which translates to roughly 1.45 cents per point.
Ehh… not great.
While Hyatt’s points often have a stronger value, Hilton’s properties have some other fun goodies up their sleeves.
Comparing Hyatt and Hilton All-Inclusives
Hyatt’s Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
Secrets Wild Orchid, a Hyatt all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, is a beautiful beachfront setting on a private peninsula. I mean… sign me up!
According to Brendan and Erin, the experience can vary. Guests have reported that while the resort is marketed as a higher-tier Category D property, the amenities, food quality, and overall atmosphere may not always reflect the premium branding, particularly during busy seasons.
Hyatt Globalist status also came with very few perks at this property, which could turn some people away.
Hilton’s S Hotel Jamaica
Meanwhile, Hilton’s S Hotel Jamaica, part of the Small Luxury Hotels collection, delivers a smoother experience overall (yay!).
Guests holding Hilton Gold status receive a complimentary upgrade to an ocean-view suite. Staff attentiveness, food quality, and overall service have some raving reviews, even compared to Hyatt’s higher-category resort.
Curious how to get Hilton Gold status? These cards can help you out:
The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required)
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required)
Comparing Loyalty Programs
When it comes to loyalty programs, Hyatt’s World of Hyatt program generally offers better point redemption value thanks to its fixed award chart.
You can often earn a free all-inclusive stay with a single credit card welcome offer, making it one of the most lucrative programs out there.
On the other hand, Hilton Honors has some stronger elite recognition, even for members without top-tier status. Complimentary upgrades, free breakfast, and premium Wi-Fi are more consistent, even at all-inclusive properties.
In short:
Best for maximizing points: World of Hyatt
Best for elite treatment and service consistency: Hilton Honors
Final Verdict
Choosing between Hyatt and Hilton depends largely on what matters most to you: value or service.
If you’re looking for the highest points value, you’ll likely prefer Hyatt’s all-inclusives, particularly those that can leverage the fixed award chart and elite status benefits at top properties.
But, if you want upgraded rooms, stronger food and beverage quality, and reliable service (even without top-tier elite status), you may find Hilton all-inclusives to be the better choice.
As always, it depends on the individual properties, too. Make sure to do your research, read up-to-date reviews, and compare cash versus points costs — all of which will help you make the most of either loyalty program. Either way, don’t skimp on the buffets!
