RCI properties give vacation owners something most hotel stays simply can’t—consistent quality, built-in flexibility, and access to a global network of resorts that range from Hawaiian beachfronts to mountain ski villages. Whether you’re exploring options for the first time or looking to expand your vacation horizons, this guide covers the best RCI resorts, how the exchange process works, and how to access the network through a resale purchase.
What Is Vacation Exchange—and What Is RCI?
Vacation exchange lets timeshare owners trade their home resort week or points for a stay at a different affiliated property. Instead of returning to the same destination every year, members gain access to a rotating catalog of resorts worldwide.
RCI (formerly Resort Condominiums International) pioneered this model. Founded in 1974 and now part of Wyndham Destinations, RCI operates the world’s largest vacation exchange network with more than 4,000 affiliated resorts in over 100 countries. Members join one of two programs:
- RCI Weeks: A fixed or floating week tied to a specific resort and unit type
- RCI Points: A flexible currency applied across the full RCI exchange network, offering broader booking options
RCI-affiliated resorts must meet quality standards to participate—so members can book with confidence regardless of destination. For a deeper look at how vacation club programs compare, see our guide on Hilton Grand Vacations vs. Marriott Vacation Club.
8 of the Best RCI Properties Around the World
1. Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club — RCI Properties in Oahu, Hawaii
Situated on Oahu’s sheltered west coast, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club sits directly alongside a series of calm lagoons. Villa-style accommodations offer full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and resort-grade amenities. As a premium RCI property from a globally recognized brand, it’s a consistent favorite among families and couples seeking a luxury Hawaii exchange.
2. Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Waikoloa Village — RCI Properties in Big Island, Hawaii
Set within the celebrated Waikoloa resort corridor on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, this Hilton Grand Vacations property delivers championship golf, expansive pool facilities, and easy access to some of Hawaii’s best snorkeling and marine life. It’s a strong RCI exchange destination for those who want the full Big Island experience. If you’re planning a Hawaii trip, our Best Places to Snorkel in Maui guide is worth a read.
3. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort — RCI Properties in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
One of the most visited RCI properties in the continental United States, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort draws visitors year-round with its cabin-style units, sweeping mountain views, and proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park—the most visited national park in the country. It’s a reliable, high-demand exchange that books up quickly.
4. Sheraton Vistana Resort — RCI Properties in Orlando, Florida
Located just minutes from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Sheraton Vistana Resort is a top RCI exchange choice for families. Spacious villa layouts, resort-style pools, and full kitchen amenities make it easy to unwind between theme park days. If a Disney trip is on the horizon, this one belongs on your shortlist.
5. Mayan Palace Riviera Maya — RCI Properties in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
With its striking white Mayan-inspired architecture and direct beachfront access along the Riviera Maya, Mayan Palace is one of the most visually distinctive RCI properties in Mexico. Lush grounds, multiple pools, and proximity to Playa del Carmen’s town center make it a compelling exchange.
6. Villa del Palmar Cabo — RCI Properties in Los Cabos, Mexico
Villa del Palmar Cabo sits at the edge of the Sea of Cortez, offering oceanfront units, an award-winning spa, and access to world-class golf courses. It stands out as one of the premier RCI-affiliated resorts in Baja California Sur—and a strong exchange option for those drawn to Los Cabos’s unique desert-meets-ocean landscape.
7. The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas — RCI Properties in Maui, Hawaii
Perched along the iconic Ka’anapali beachfront on Maui’s west coast, The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas blends Westin-branded luxury with some of the finest views in the Hawaiian Islands. This property carries strong trade power within the RCI exchange network, making it one of the most desirable swaps available to members.
8. Marriott’s Desert Springs — RCI Properties in Palm Springs, California
Set against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, Marriott’s Desert Springs is a standout RCI property for those who prefer warm, dry climates. Championship golf, a world-class spa, and a resort spread across 450 acres make it a top draw for adults and retirees alike. For more on what Palm Springs has to offer, see our Palm Springs Vacation Guide.
How Does RCI Work?
The exchange process is straightforward once you understand the steps:
- Enroll in RCI membership — typically through a timeshare developer or a resale purchase from a licensed brokerage
- Deposit your home resort week or points into the RCI system
- Search available exchange inventory based on your desired destination and travel dates
- Confirm the exchange and pay a standard exchange fee to complete the booking
One important factor: exchange power. Some RCI properties carry higher trade value than others, which affects which resorts you can access and during what times of year. High-demand properties—like those listed above—tend to command stronger trade power within the network.
RCI membership is available to owners of affiliated resorts, including those purchased on the secondary market. For full membership details, visit RCI’s official site.
RCI vs. Interval International: What’s the Difference?
Interval International (II) is RCI’s primary competitor in the vacation exchange space. Both networks serve a similar purpose—connecting owners with exchange inventory worldwide—but they differ in scale and affiliated brands.
| Feature | RCI | Interval International |
|---|---|---|
| Network size | 4,000+ resorts | ~3,000+ resorts |
| Membership options | Weeks + Points | Weeks + Points |
| Key affiliated brands | Marriott Vacation Club, Hilton Grand Vacations, Wyndham | Hyatt Vacation Club, Marriott Vacation Club (select), Vistana |
| Exchange fees | Broadly comparable | Broadly comparable |
Ultimately, the better network depends on where your home resort is affiliated—not a universal answer. Check current fees directly with each network, as they can change.
Frequently Asked Questions About RCI Properties
Find Your Ideal RCI Resort Through Resale
The RCI exchange network gives owners access to an unmatched range of global resorts—from Hawaiian beachfronts and Mexican rivieras to mountain ski villages and Caribbean all-inclusives. Few vacation models offer that kind of variety within a single membership.
Buying an RCI-affiliated timeshare on the resale market is one of the most cost-effective ways to enter this network. Resale buyers gain the same exchange access as retail purchasers, typically at significantly lower prices—without paying developer premiums.
Fidelity Real Estate is a licensed real estate brokerage, an ARDA Featured Reseller, and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Our licensed agents are here to guide you through every step of the process—clearly, transparently, and with no upfront fees.
Ready to find your ideal RCI property at a resale price? Browse our current listings and connect with a licensed agent today.
Not Using Your Timeshare?
RCI is a great way to get more value and flexibility from your timeshare, but sometimes, even vacation exchange can’t save your ownership. If you’ve been thinking about selling your timeshare, Fidelity Real Estate is here to help. Fill out the form below to get started, or call or email us to speak with a licensed broker today.
