The Guide to Hilton Grand Vacations

Hilton Grand Vacations is the Hilton-affiliated vacation home ownership brand that works like a timeshare program. It is designed so that travelers can lock in the price for hotel stays in various vacation destinations within the HGV network without worrying about fluctuating prices.

Hilton Grand Vacations locations span the world and include over 150 resorts. Guests often extol the reliability and high-quality amenities the properties can offer that seem less risky than an independent homeshare program, like those that are part of Airbnb.

Unlike a typical hotel or homeshare, Hilton Grand Vacations Club members buy access at different levels, each coming with a set number of ClubPoints to redeem at HGV properties. The HGV levels are different from Hilton Honors elite status tiers, but members are awarded annual Hilton Honors status (renewable annually with their membership), which gives them recognition when staying at Hilton Honors-participating properties, too.

By joining Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Hilton Honors elite members with Gold or Diamond status can enjoy additional perks depending on the membership level.

If you join HGV at the Preferred+ or Premier categories, you’ll earn Hilton Honors Gold status; buying into the Premier+ or Centum+ level leads to Hilton Honors’ top-tier Diamond status. That could be handy if you didn’t earn it from frequent stays or by being approved for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, which comes with instant Diamond status. Terms apply.

» Learn more: Hilton Gold vs. Diamond — which is right for you?

HGV properties feature onsite amenities like pools, fitness centers, concierge service and dining options, which is something a private homeshare program like Airbnb or Vrbo cannot match. Many have regular housekeeping services, in-room kitchenettes and complimentary laundry, too. They deliver the comforts of a private residence, but as part of a larger resort.

» Learn more: The best hotel credit cards

There are Hilton Grand Vacations locations in the U.S., from cities like Washington, D.C., to beach and ski destinations like Marco Island or Breckenridge. Of course, family-friendly hot spots like Orlando and Honolulu are in the mix, too. The Hilton Grand Vacations locations map stretches overseas, including properties in Barbados, Italy, Mexico and Portugal.

You can find Hilton Grand Vacations properties across the U.S. in:

• Arizona.

• California.

• Chicago.

• Colorado.

• Florida.

• Hawaii.

• Nevada.

• New York.

• South Carolina.

• Utah.

• Virginia.

• Washington, D.C.

The international suite of Hilton Grand Vacations locations include:

• Barbados.

• Italy.

• Japan.

• Mexico.

• Netherlands Antilles.

• Portugal.

• Scotland.

If you're ready to start perusing Hilton Grand Vacation holiday options, consult this roundup of top properties to consider.

1. The Crane, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Barbados

The Crane, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, is located on St. Philip’s Crane Beach and opposite its namesake resort, The Crane. Its residential-style accommodations, depending on the unit, come with multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, living area and multiple bedrooms. Some units even have their own pool, and the balconies overlook beautiful swaying palm trees and a beach just off the neighboring cliff.

Guests here have the best of both worlds — a private residential complex, plus the ability to use the facilities of the neighboring resort, including its large pool complex, shopping and dining venues, and tennis and spa facilities. The Crane Resort is the oldest, continuously running resort in the Caribbean, and its historic buildings are worth exploring.

2. Valdoro Mountain Lodge, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Colorado

Skiers will rejoice in this option to book a vacation residence in the Rocky Mountains using their HGV points. The Valdoro Mountain Lodge offers one to three-bedroom suites at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort and each comes with a gas fireplace, full kitchen, and in select units, a balcony. There are also a handful of studios for those that don’t need the amenities of a residence.

When you’re finished for the day, the onsite ski shop makes it easy to return your gear, and the heated pool, steam room and apres-ski cocktails by the fireplace are ready and waiting. This isn’t just a cold-weather destination though, as you can hike, bike, whitewater raft or go fly-fishing in the warmer months.

» Learn more: How to book a ski adventure with points and miles

3. Sunrise Lodge, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Utah

With direct ski access to the base of the Sunrise lift at Canyons Resort, this residential-style timeshare property is a great spot for winter sports fans. Some units have up to four bedrooms, and they come with a fireplace, kitchen and services like ski valet. The heated outdoor pool is a favorite for relaxation.

During the summer months, the resort is popular for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Guests aren’t far from Main Street, and the complimentary shuttle will take you to nearby dining and shopping.

4. The Central at 5th, a Hilton Club, New York

If you want to lock in a fair rate in the heart of midtown New York City, this property is your ticket. Its one- to three-bedroom units feature luxurious amenities like bathrooms with heated floors and Japanese toilets and access to an Owners’ lounge.

With fluctuating room rates in New York City, locking in rates at the same accommodations is a huge plus for many travelers. It is also nice to feel like you have your own home in this 34-floor building on East 48th Street.

» Learn more: The best credit cards for NYC travel

5. Liberty Place Charleston, a Hilton Club, South Carolina

The Liberty Place Charleston is a residential-style timeshare property close to the city’s historic attractions and not far from the area’s many beaches.

With one- and two-bedroom accommodations, it is a great spot for tourists to get out and explore the restaurants and shops of Charleston.

6. Sedona Summit, a Hilton Vacation Club, Arizona

The dry heat of Sedona, Arizona, and its many spas, golf courses and hiking opportunities await at Sedona Summit. The resort’s studio to three-bedroom suites are within view of spectacular mountain and nature scenery and come with kitchen facilities and a patio.

The resort describes itself as family-friendly and offers heated pools, barbecue areas and a fitness center in the heart of Arizona’s famous red rocks.

» Learn more: Travel diaries: How I took a luxury vacay to Arizona on points

7. Trump International Hotel Las Vegas, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Nevada

The Trump International Hotel Las Vegas is one of the most impressive timeshare resorts, towering 64 floors above Sin City. The views are incredible and the service is designed to match. With studios and one- to two-bedroom suites, the accommodations are comfortable for short stays.

Members enjoy having the same address to serve as their home base when they visit town, especially when it includes perks like a panoramic pool with air-conditioned cabanas, access to the hotel’s spa facilities and Michelin star dining.

8. Tuscany Village, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Florida

Close to Walt Disney World and designed to look like an Italian village, Tuscany Village is a charming place offering big-resort amenities with residential accommodations. Units have as many as three bedrooms plus full kitchens and screened-in balconies.

The property also has a resort-style pool, recreation room, jogging paths and sports facilities to keep everyone entertained when not at the Disney parks.

» Learn more: How to plan a Walt Disney trip

9. Borgo alle Vigne, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Italy

The old-world charm of Borgo alle Vigne — near Pisa — puts guests in central Tuscany, the ideal base for exploring Florence and the rolling hillsides of the region. Suites have one to three bedrooms, a kitchen, a living area and access to a beautiful swimming pool.

10. Vilamoura, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Algarve, Portugal

The one- and two-bedroom accommodations at Vilamoura come with their own kitchens and balconies. Even better, they provide access to recreational facilities like the pool and spa at the neighboring Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa.

Nearby are numerous golf courses, many beaches and shopping options, and the surrounding countryside for sunny relaxation.

» Learn more: How to choose a credit card for Europe travel

Choosing your next Hilton Grand Vacations Club destination will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and vacation plans. Whether you want to try your luck in Las Vegas, explore regions of Europe or lounge on a Caribbean island beach, Hilton Grand Vacations Club has plenty to offer.

Its timeshare model allows members to choose where and when they want to go or trade it for another option later, and the opportunity to earn Hilton Honors status is the icing on the cake.