The 8 Best Puerto Vallarta Hotels To Book With Points [for Max Value]

Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s charming beach towns. If you enjoy white sand beaches, a charming small-town feel, gastronomy, and Mexican culture, this city should definitely be on your wish list.

In addition to having beautiful beaches, fantastic marine ecosystems, watersports centers, and turquoise-blue water, there are plenty of sights to see, such as Los Arcos, El Malecón, and Vallarta Botanical Gardens.

In this guide, we’ll show you some of the highest-value redemptions you can make for reward stays in luxury hotels and resorts across the major hotel chains.

Let’s get into it!

The 6 Best Value Puerto Vallarta Hotels

To compile this guide, we examined hotels from Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt, IHG One Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Unfortunately, no IHG-branded properties made the cut due to low redemption value.

Not to worry, because we’ve put together 8 hotels (including 2 all-inclusive properties) in Puerto Vallarta that’ll get you tremendous value for your hard-earned points!

1. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort (Marriott Bonvoy)

Our winning resort is The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, located in nearby Punta de Mita, around 30 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta and 15 miles from Bucerias, a famous seaside village.

The St. Regis Punta Mita is situated on 22 acres on a lush peninsula, offering guests a serene hideaway at this exclusive resort with incredible service, including the signature St. Regis Butler Service.

Each of the standard rooms starts at 600 square feet large, contains top-shelf bedding and linens to accompany the king bed or 2 queen beds, and has tropical garden views. The room contains floor-to-ceiling windows, a furnished terrace, a desk, a sitting area, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and coffee and tea facilities.

Relax in the marble spa bathroom with a deep-soaking bathtub, double vanities, a walk-in rain shower, a lighted makeup mirror, bathrobes, slippers, a hairdryer, and more.

Indulge in the beachside seafood restaurant, the signature AAA Five Diamond Awarded Mexican restaurant, and 4 other dining options.

Here, you’ll find a spa, a gym, multiple pools (some are kid-friendly), pristine stretches of private white-sand beach, 2 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, tennis courts, and a kids’ club!

Average Marriott Bonvoy Points Required: 70,000 to 100,000

Cash Rate: $770 to $2,500 ($1,400 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 2.5 cents per point

Hot Tip: The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is one of the best hotels to book with points in all of Mexico, not just Puerto Vallarta!

2. W Punta de Mita (Marriott Bonvoy)

If The St. Regis Punta Mita is sold out or you’re looking for a superb luxury resort without insane opulence, the W Punta de Mita has got you covered!

More than anything, this resort is a chic resort getaway catering to those into the “South Beach” vibe — the complex is 5 miles from Manzanilla Beach and less than 7 miles from Litibu Golf Course.

Each of the colorful rooms is appointed with a furnished balcony/terrace, a choice of 1 king bed or 2 double beds, views of the lush jungle, and floor-to-ceiling windows. To get even more specific, each room is also at least 661 square feet in size and has a minibar, coffee and tea making facilities, a flat-screen TV, iPod dock, and lots of closet space.

The bathroom is appointed with a separate bathtub and shower, twin vanities, bathrobes, a lighted makeup mirror, a hairdryer, and much more.

There are 5 restaurants and a WET Deck cocktail bar available for your enjoyment. You’ll find amenities like a 24/7, adults-only heated outdoor pool, another beachside pool with 2 hot tubs, as well as a spa, a fitness center, direct beach access, and event space.

Average Marriott Bonvoy Points Required: 50,000 to 70,000

Cash Rate: $400 to $1,100 ($500 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 1.6 cents per point

3. Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa (Marriott Bonvoy)

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is a 4-star luxury hotel overlooking the Bay of Banderas and is our first property in Puerto Vallarta proper — it’s a 3-minute walk from Marina Vallarta and a little more than a mile from Costalegre’s beaches and bays.

Each standard room measures at least 366 square feet large and has either 1 king bed or 2 double beds, plus a furnished balcony, a sofa bed, a sitting area, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, coffee and tea machines, a desk, and garden views.

When you check out the marble bathroom, you’ll find a walk-in shower, a single vanity with a bright LED-backlit mirror, bathrobes, Thann bath products, and a hairdryer.

In total, there are 7 dining options: 3 full-service restaurants, 3 bars (1 swim-up bar), and a grab-and-go coffee shop.

To make your stay enjoyable, you can check out the heated infinity pool, private access to El Salado Beach, the heated indoor adults-only lap pool, the heated outdoor kids’ club pool, hot tubs, the gym, the spa with a steam room, and more.

Average Marriott Bonvoy Points Required: 40,000 to 60,000

Cash Rate: $125 to $450 ($250 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 0.8 cents per point

Hot Tip: If you’re flying into Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta, don’t miss our guide to the best ways to fly to Mexico with points and miles.

4. Conrad Punta de Mita (Hilton Honors)

Conrad Punta de Mita is one of Hilton Honors’s newest luxury properties — located just west of the Sierra Madre Mountains in Riviera Nayarit, this property has incredible natural beauty!

If you book a standard room, you’ll have the chance to choose between 1 king bed with a sofa bed or 2 queen beds — each room measures at least 650 square feet large and has a sitting area with a couch, a furnished patio, a minibar, Nespresso coffee amenities, tea, a desk, a flat-screen TV, and abundant closet space.

In the marble bathroom, you’ll spot a spacious walk-in shower, twin vanities, a separate toilet room, Shanghai Tang amenities, bathrobes, slippers, and more.

On the premises, you’ll embark on a culinary journey with 3 full-service restaurants, 1 lounge, multiple pool bars, and a coffee shop! Other amenities at this posh, brand-new resort include a spa, a 24/7 gym, tennis courts, watersports, 2 miles of private white-sand beach, a kids’ club, a game room, and event space.

Hilton Honors Points Required: ~95,000

Cash Rate: $500 to $1,200 ($750 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 1.3 cents per point

5. The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta (Marriott Bonvoy)

Our next property is an exclusive complex set on nearly 15 acres of palm-lined land overlooking Banderas Bay. The property is also half a mile from Marina Vallarta.

Each cozy room has either 1 king bed or 2 double beds, at least partial ocean views, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Of course, the beds are Westin Heavenly Beds, and the other in-room amenities include a desk, a flat-screen TV, a sitting area with a loveseat, a furnished patio/balcony, a minibar, coffee and tea machines, and at least 581 square feet of space.

The marble bathroom houses a walk-in rain shower, a soaking bathtub, a single vanity, a separate toilet room, bathrobes, slippers, and Westin Heavenly Bath products.

There are 3 full-service restaurants, a spa, a gym, private cabanas available for a surcharge, a club lounge, 2 outdoor pools (1 with a swim-up bar), a kids’ club, 3 outdoor lighted grass tennis courts, table tennis, and volleyball! Event space is also bookable.

Average Marriott Bonvoy Points Required: 30,000 to 40,000

Cash Rate: $125 to $525 ($215 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 1.3 cents per point

6. Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center (Marriott Bonvoy)

Our very last property, Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center, is a 4-star retreat situated along the Pacific Coast and is half a mile from the Malecón boardwalk and less than 5 miles from Vallarta Undersea scuba diving school.

In the standard rooms, you can choose between 1 king bed or 2 double beds — either way, the rooms are a minimum of 430 square feet large, are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, and have a sitting area with a couch, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a set of coffee and tea facilities, and a desk.

Within the bathroom, you’ll find a single vanity, a make-up mirror, marble tiling, a walk-in shower, bathrobes, a hairdryer, and more.

There are an astonishing 14 unique dining options, a full spa, a gym, tennis courts, private Las Glorias beach access, outdoor heated pools, and event space.

Average Marriott Bonvoy Points Required: 30,000 to 40,000

Cash Rate: $125 to $300 ($160 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 0.8 cents per point

Hot Tip: Considering spending your points on a stay in Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo) or Cancún, instead? Check out our local guides for more recommendations on properties you can book with points and miles!

2 Best Value All-Inclusive Puerto Vallarta Hotels

1. Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta (World of Hyatt)

One of 2 all-inclusive resorts in this guide, the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta offers jam-packed value, especially for families looking to enjoy a luxury stay with as little money out of pocket as possible.

This resort is 2.5 miles from Parroquia du Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe and the famous Malecón Promenade.

You’ll find 335 rooms and suites here, all with garden and/or ocean views, work desks, minibars, coffee and tea, sitting areas with a couch, chairs, and a coffee table, and flat-screen TVs.

The designer bathroom is outfitted with a walk-in rain shower, a lighted make-up mirror, bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer.

There are 12 dining options to choose from, plus private dining! Complimentary activities include access to 5 infinity pools, 2 kiddie pools, an infinity hot tub, fitness classes at the gym, volleyball, soccer, kids’ club activities, kayaking, live entertainment, and more.

For an additional charge, you can book a spa treatment, rent a private cabana, or embark on an excursion or tour.

World of Hyatt Points Required: 21,000 to 29,000 points per night for double occupancy (10,500 to 14,500 points per night for each additional guest; maximum of 4 people per room)

Cash Rate: $250 to $750 ($350 on average) per night, based on double occupancy

Points Value: Up to 2.5 cents per point, based on double occupancy

Hot Tip: From adults-only opulence to family-friendly fun, check out the best all-inclusive resorts and hotel packages in Mexico.

2. Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort (Hilton Honors)

The Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort offers an all-inclusive experience with 3 meals per day plus snacks and all non-premium brand liquor, draft beer, wine, and more.

This AAA Four-Diamond resort has rooms at least 370-square-feet large, plus spectacular views and a choice of 1 king bed or 2 double beds. Here, the in-room amenities are relatively standard: a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a desk, a private patio, and a bathroom with a single vanity, a walk-in shower, and a separate toilet room.

The property houses a buffet breakfast restaurant, a traditional Italian restaurant, an authentic Mexican dinner restaurant, a sky bar, a laidback French fusion spot, a Mediterranean restaurant, a sushi bar, an all-day signature international restaurant, a snack bar, and a lobby bar.

You’ll find plenty of wellness amenities here, too, including a spa, a floatarium, nightly entertainment, direct ocean access, daily activities, non-motorized watersports, a gym, a kids’ club, and poolside waiter service!

Hilton Honors Points Required: 46,000 to 70,000

Cash Rate: $120 to $320 ($200 on average) per night

Points Value: Up to 0.5 cents per point

Earn Hotel Points To Redeem in Puerto Vallarta

In this list, we’ve included the best hotels to book in Puerto Vallarta using points — and while there was a solid balance among Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton properties, there were no IHG properties that made it onto the list.

So in this next section, we’ll show you the best ways to earn specific hotel points, starting with World of Hyatt.

World of Hyatt

The main credit card that you can use to accumulate World of Hyatt points directly is The World of Hyatt Credit Card issued by Chase. You can also opt to sign up for the business version of this card, the World of Hyatt Business Credit Card.

In addition to offering superb categories to earn Hyatt points, you can also enjoy a long list of valuable benefits, like up to 9x points total per $1 spent at Hyatt, Discoverist status, and elite night credits.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months. Plus, up to 30,000 more points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, up to $15,000 spent.

Up to 60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes your Hyatt stays more rewarding and helps you get coveted World of Hyatt elite status faster. This card is a must-have for any traveler who regularly stays at Hyatt hotels, or even for anyone who’s able to take advantage of the card’s annual free night certificate.

When you factor in all the benefits the World of Hyatt card offers, it’s easy to see why it is one of the best co-branded hotel credit cards on the market.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
• 2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
• 1x point per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
• Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
• Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
• Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
• Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
• Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
• Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
• Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Other Ways To Earn World of Hyatt Points

In addition to the World of Hyatt card, you can earn Hyatt points indirectly since the program is a Chase transfer partner.

This way, you can take advantage of the more relevant spending categories offered on Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve^®, and Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card.

Furthermore, if you have any of the 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards cards above, you can also amass Ultimate Rewards points by converting your rewards from the Chase Freedom Flex℠, Chase Freedom Unlimited^®, Chase Freedom^® card (no longer open for new applications), Ink Business Cash^® Credit Card, and Ink Business Unlimited^® Credit Card.

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy has co-branded credit card relationships with American Express and Chase — each card offers a different set of benefits that will appeal to different traveler personas.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Bonus Points plus 1 Free Night Award after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Free Night valued at 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.

60,000 points + 1 Free Night Award

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$770

Annual Fee

$0

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
• 2x points at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services
• 5 Elite Night Credits each year

Cons

• Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
• Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from your account opening.

125,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
• Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
• Automatic Silver Elite Status

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

85,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$595

Annual Fee

$250

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
• 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
• Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
• Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card.
• Marriott Bonvoy 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
• With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy^® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit, available for Qualifying Rates.
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card^® you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
• Plan It^® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
• $250 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

95,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$665

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy^® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy^® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Other Ways To Earn Marriott Bonvoy Points

If you’re short the required amount of points for a hotel redemption you want to make, fortunately, Marriott is an American Express transfer partner and a Chase transfer partner.

This is generally a bad idea due to the low redemption value you’ll get — instead, stick to credit card spending or staying at Marriott properties as the best way to earn lots of points.

Hilton Honors

Lastly, Hilton Honors rounds out our 3 loyalty programs discussed in this piece.

American Express is the exclusive credit card issuer of Hilton Honors co-branded credit cards.

Check out some of our favorite picks here, including a card that earns up to 14x points per $1 spent on eligible purchases!

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Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status, plus great earnings at Hilton, U.S. gas stations, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. restaurants!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status, plus great earnings at Hilton, U.S. gas stations, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. restaurants!

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.

100,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$500

Annual Fee

$0

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

You can’t beat a comfy king-sized bed and room service. For many travelers, it’s the hotel that really makes or breaks an experience. If you’re one of those people, you’ve probably stayed at a Hilton hotel.

Whether your visits are for work or pleasure, the Hilton brand has you covered with more than 6,200 locations in 100 counties and territories.

To enjoy a host of great benefits, you may want to apply for the Hilton Honors American Express Card.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 7x points per $1 on Hilton stays
• 5x points per $1 at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations
• 3x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Not great for those who want multiple redemption options
• Offers the least benefits of all Hilton cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
• Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
• No Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Hilton Honors Loyalty Program

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.

Welcome Offer

Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.

165,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$825

Annual Fee

$150

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re someone who loves traveling and loves staying in Hilton hotels, adding a co-branded Hilton hotel card to your wallet is almost a no-brainer. From automatic Hilton elite status to up to $200 in Hilton credits every year, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card can be a great fit for Hilton loyalists looking to up their travel game.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 12x points per $1 at Hilton hotels
• 6x points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and U.S. restaurants
• 4x points per $1 at U.S. online retail purchases

Cons

• Annual fee of $150 (rates & fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
• Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card.
• Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card.
• Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
• Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental^® Emerald Club Executive^® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club^® program is required. Terms apply.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
• $150 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Hilton Honors

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

All information about Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Welcome Offer

Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership

175,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$550

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

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Paying hundreds of dollars for an annual fee on a co-branded hotel card might seem ridiculous, but you should know that the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is much more than your run-of-the-mill hotel credit card.

The Hilton Aspire card is not only a phenomenal card for Hilton Honors loyalists, but even those who visit Hilton hotels just a few times a year can still get excellent value out of all the benefits that are packed into this card.

So let’s have a look at what makes the card so valuable to travelers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 14x points per $1 on Hilton purchases
• 7x points per $1 on select travel and at U.S. restaurants
• 3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Cons

• High annual fee of $550

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership
• Earn 14x Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible travel purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
• Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points on dining at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery
• Earn 3x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for other eligible purchases on your card
• Enjoy up to $400 in Hilton Resort Credits (up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually) on your card each anniversary year when you stay at participating resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Enjoy complimentary Diamond status
• $550 annual fee

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

An excellent option for business owners and business travelers who stay at Hilton properties often and want perks like Hilton Honors elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

An excellent option for business owners and business travelers who stay at Hilton properties often and want perks like Hilton Honors elite status.

Welcome Offer

Limited Time Offer: Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.

175,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$195

APR

20.24% - 29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

For frequent business travelers who regularly stay in Hilton hotels, The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a great option.

Not only will the card help you earn more points on all of your Hilton stays, but you’ll also receive automatic elite status and travel protections.

Here’s a detailed look at all the benefits this card offers so that you can determine if it’s a good fit for you.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn 12x points per $1 on eligible Hilton purchases
• Earn 5x points on other purchases made for the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3x points thereafter.
• Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, and the ability to spend your way to Diamond status

Cons

• $195 annual fee (rates and fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited Time Offer: Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card within the first six months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 1/8/2025.
• Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on eligible Hilton purchases.
• Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases made using the Hilton Honors Business Card on the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3X points thereafter.
• Get up to $60 in statement credits each quarter for purchases made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Hilton Honors American Express Business Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card. With Hilton Honors Gold status, you can enjoy benefits at hotels and resorts within the Hilton Portfolio. As a Gold member, earn an 80% Bonus on all Base Points you earn on every stay getting you to free nights faster.
• You may receive an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the calendar year if the total eligible purchases on your Card Account during a calendar year reach $40,000 or more.
• As a Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Member, you can enroll to receive complimentary National Car Rental^® Emerald Club Executive^® status through the link on your American Express online account. After you’re enrolled, you can reserve a rental car by calling National Car Rental directly, using your travel service, or by booking online or through the National Car Rental mobile app. Terms apply.
• Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Hilton Honors loyalty program

Other Ways To Earn Hilton Honors Points

Since Hilton Honors points are so easy to earn through credit card spending, we recommend using that as your primary way to generate points.

If you need a few thousand more points to make a reservation, you can top off your balance by transferring Amex points to Hilton.

Final Thoughts

In Puerto Vallarta, there are accommodation choices that range from budget hostels to expansive ultra-luxe complexes with amenities like you’ve never seen before.

We’ve focused on properties that will net you the best redemption value, and these are generally the most luxurious ones, as well.

However, we’ve also included some decidedly comfortable 4-star resorts and even some all-inclusive properties for travelers that don’t want to spend large sums of money out-of-pocket.

Whatever the case, you’ll have plenty of options to pick from!