Marriott has a hotel portfolio of over 8,000 properties across 131 countries and territories. The portfolio includes properties for the “ultra luxury” consumer as well as the “budget conscious” guest. There is something for everyone. Its flagship loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, offers members exclusive and lucrative benefits and rewards. As part of this program, Marriott partners with both American Express and Chase to issue multiple co-branded travel rewards credit cards. These cards provide various rewards and benefits to holders; even elite status (i.e. Platinum Elite). One of the most interesting and valuable perks of the Marriott Bonvoy program and the co-branded Marriott travel rewards credit cards is the ability to earn a Free Night Award.

What Is A Marriott Free Night Award

A Marriott Free Night Award is a voucher that can be redeemed for a complimentary night’s stay at participating Marriott hotels and resorts up to a specific point amount (i.e. 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night per award).

However, there are some limitations on the usage of a Free Night Award:

1. A Free Night Award is only good for a single night stay (i.e. no ability to use a 85K Free Night Award for 2 x 40K night stays);
2. A Free Night Award is not useable for a room upgrade (but a room booked with a Free Night Award is eligible for an upgrade);
3. A Free Night Award is not available for a cash + points booking;
4. A Free Night Award is not transferable;
5. A Free Night Award is not redeemable for Marriott Bonvoy points; and
6. A Free Night Award is valid for one full year from the issuance date.

The Marriott Bonvoy program offers the ability to earn Free Night Awards in the following amounts: 25K, 35K, 40K, 50K, and 85K. Further, a major benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program is the ability to “top up” a Free Night Award with up to 15K Marriott Bonvoy points.

How To Get A Marriott Free Night Award

There are a number of ways to earn a Marriott Free Night Award, but the most common are as follows:

1. On a co-branded credit card anniversary (i.e. the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card), earn 1 Free Night Award;
2. Hit a specific co-branded (i.e. Marriott) credit card spend threshold (i.e. $60,000) in a calendar year;
3. A specific sign up bonus or other promotional offer on a co-branded (i.e. Marriott) credit card; and
4. At specific status thresholds and levels (i.e. Titanium and Ambassador).

The Best Marriott 85K Free Night Award Redemptions

The overall value of a Marriott 85K Free Night Award redemption stems from a combination of average cash rate (i.e. relatively value), average point cost (i.e. usability), and customer hotel rating (i.e. quality). Here are ten amazing redemption opportunities; in no particular order.

Solaz

Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, is a stunning beachfront property in Los Cabos, Mexico. The resort offers beautifully designed rooms and suites, many with private pools and ocean views. The facilities are exceptional, with several swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa offering a range of treatments. The restaurants offer delicious Mexican and international cuisine, and the bars serve creative cocktails. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service throughout the stay. The resort’s location is perfect for enjoying the beauty of Los Cabos, with easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.

The Bodrum EDITION

The Bodrum EDITION is a luxurious beachfront property that offers a stunning blend of contemporary design and traditional Turkish elements. The hotel boasts an array of stylish and spacious rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities and breathtaking sea views. The restaurants serve exquisite cuisine from around the world, and the bars provide a relaxed atmosphere to unwind. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a tranquil spa, and multiple swimming pools. The staff are friendly, attentive, and go above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable stay.

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is a luxurious resort located on the pristine beaches of Thailand’s second largest island. The property features 175 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas with spectacular sea views. Guests can indulge in a variety of culinary experiences with a selection of dining options including Thai cuisine, seafood, and international cuisine. The resort also offers a range of leisure activities such as yoga, golf, and water sports, as well as a tranquil spa where guests can unwind with a range of treatments. The attentive and personalized service provided by the staff adds to the overall experience of luxury and relaxation.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a luxurious resort located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. The hotel boasts an idyllic location overlooking the stunning Kauna’oa Bay, with its white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. The property features 252 spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites with private balconies, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush gardens. The resort offers an array of recreational activities, including golf, tennis, water sports, and a range of cultural experiences. The dining options are exceptional, featuring some of the finest culinary delights from around the world. The personalized service provided by the staff adds to the overall experience of luxury and comfort.

The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown

The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Washington D.C.’s historic Georgetown neighborhood. The property features 86 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, with stylish decor and modern amenities. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Degrees, offers innovative American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The spa and fitness center provide guests with an array of wellness experiences, including a heated indoor pool and personalized massages. The hotel’s location allows guests to explore the vibrant Georgetown neighborhood, with its boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants, and it’s within walking distance of some of the city’s top attractions.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a luxurious island resort located in the heart of the Indian Ocean. The resort features 61 beach and overwater villas with private pools, offering stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the lush tropical surroundings. The dining options are exceptional, featuring a variety of international cuisines, including Thai, Japanese, and Italian. The resort offers an array of recreational activities, including snorkeling, diving, and water sports, as well as a tranquil spa where guests can unwind with a range of treatments. Overall, the JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a perfect choice for those seeking an exclusive and indulgent escape in a tropical paradise.

The Madrid EDITION

The Madrid EDITION is a luxurious and stylish hotel located in the heart of the Spanish capital. The design is a perfect blend of classic and contemporary styles, with an emphasis on elegant simplicity. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable beds and all the modern amenities you would expect from a high-end hotel. The staff are attentive and friendly, providing excellent service throughout the stay. The hotel also features a beautiful rooftop bar and restaurant, providing stunning views of the city.

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a paradise in the Indian Ocean. The resort offers stunning overwater villas and beach villas with private pools, where guests can enjoy beautiful views of the crystal-clear turquoise waters. The food and drinks are exceptional, with a variety of dining options available. The resort’s signature Iridium Spa is a highlight, offering a range of treatments in a serene and luxurious setting. The staff are attentive and go above and beyond to make sure guests have a memorable stay. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a luxury vacation.

* Unlike other hotels on this list, the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has a significant portion of the year where an 85K Free Night Award is not viable.

Al Maha

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa is an oasis in the heart of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The resort offers luxurious Bedouin-style villas with private pools, surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes. Guests can indulge in a range of activities such as falconry, camel treks, and wildlife safaris. The food is delicious, with options for fine dining or casual meals. The spa is a highlight, offering a range of treatments inspired by Arabian culture. The staff provides excellent service and hospitality, making sure guests have an unforgettable and authentic desert experience. Al Maha is a unique and luxurious destination that provides an escape from the busy Dubai lifestyle.

* Unlike other hotels on this list, the Al Maha has a significant portion of the year where an 85K Free Night Award is not viable.

Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui

The Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui is a beautiful and luxurious beachfront resort in Hawaii. The property offers spacious and modern rooms with stunning views of the ocean or the gardens. The resort boasts several swimming pools, including an adults-only infinity pool, and has direct access to a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters. The restaurants serve delicious cuisine, including local Hawaiian specialties. The staff is friendly and helpful, providing excellent service throughout the stay. The resort also offers a range of activities, such as cultural experiences and watersports, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation in Maui.

Final Thoughts

A Marriott Bonvoy Free Night Award is an extremely valuable benefit for Marriott Bonvoy members who frequently stay at Marriott properties. With the ability to “top up” a Free Night Award, the range of bookable hotels increases significantly, which in turn increases the value of each award. The 85K Free Night Award is best used for “luxury” to “ultra-luxury” hotel stays. As always, the key to maximizing the value of a Free Night Award, with equivalent cash value rates ranging well into the $1,000’s, is flexibility!