The king of Marriott annual free night certificates are the 85K certificates. Two credit cards offer these, but only one is currently available to apply for. The Chase Ritz Carlton Card can only be acquired as a product change. However, I will always keep this card and my American Express Bonvoy Brilliant Card because I greatly value these 85K certificates. They are really the only way to stay at some of my favorite luxury Marriott hotels. Here are some great ways to use a Marriott 85K certificate:

 

Wailea Beach Resort

The Wailea Beach Resort on Maui is probably the #1 reason my husband and I keep both of these cards open. They allow us to book four nights at this incredible resort each year. Alex loves this resort also, and often “hints” that she will go with me if I need a travel partner.

 

 

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui

We are planning a family, adults-only trip to Thailand, and this hotel looks promising as we all have Marriott Bonvoy cards and points. Not only could we stay at a gorgeous resort, but at the Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui, our free night certificates would get us a suite!

 

 

The St. Regis Deer Valley

The St. Regis Deer Valley is located near Park City, Utah, and would make for a great luxury ski escape. For the winter months, I found prices as low as 98K points, so you would need to top off your 85K certificates with additional Marriott points to make this work.

 

 

Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay truly has a stunning location as it sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean near San Francisco. I’ve known people who routinely vacation there because it is such a gorgeous place. With a spa and golf course, it is perfect for the interests of most couples.

 

 

 

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Honestly, I would check out any St. Regis or Ritz-Carlton with these 85K certificates as they are Marriott’s luxury brands. Amelia Island is a fun location in Florida and a great choice for these 85K certificates.

 

 

Scottsdale Phoenician Resort

I used an expiring 85K certificate at the Scottsdale Phoenician Resort and can attest that it is a beautiful resort. I would love to return here in the winter since Arizona is a great reprieve from the snow of Colorado.

 

 

Bottom Line

These are some great ways to use a Marriott 85K certificate—what are some of your favorite places to use one? I will continue to keep the cards that earn these certificates as I value taking a luxury vacation at a discounted price.