Is it normal for them to ask for full rent + security deposit before we get down there, like 15 days before we get down there?

Feels like you put the cards in there hands if they want 2 screw you and keep the $ especially if your not 25.

i wouldnt do it man. too many people down there at this time of the year and you could get easily screwed. there should be no problem with you paying when you get there in my opinion.

This is standard. A lot of folks who own these places don't have a billing company and do the work themselves. There's no one to pay when you get there because they are the sole owners. Most have lockboxes on the doors and will give you the code to open it once payment has been received.

most will send you a rental agreement, i would make a copy of this and send them the mmoney, that rental agreement is to protect you both. it is a legal document and they cant screw you out of your money once you both sign it.