I have been reading these reviews and cracking up. I know that a lot of you have had bad experiences and that's awful - especially when you are on vacation. My boyfriend and I started going there when we were about 26 or so and before that, we stayed at the Lazy G. I do agree that their whole $400 CASH deposit for people under 25 is extreme, but we're 30 now so thank God we don't have to worry about that.
Our trips have been fun. The hotel itself is kinda dumpy (it ain't the Ritz) but if all you want is a little fridge, a view of the beach and a place to shower/lay down at night. We spent most of our time on the beach so we didn't care. And if gets to be too much, head over to the nearby Sea Dog Saloon and have a few drinks. Everyone feels better after a few drinks.
Now, to be fair, I would not be okay with taking little ones there. However, for a couple or families with older kids, it's fine. I'd suggest bringing one of your bath towels and a pillow/blanket of your own. I do that when I stay at the Marriott though.