After living in California for decades, I've found the perfect place to visit when I crave coastal Mediterranean vibes

As a Californian, I've found that Newport Beach is the perfect place to visit when I crave coastal Mediterranean vibes but don't want to book pricey flights. Blythe Chadim

Growing up in the California Bay Area, I've been to many beach towns, and they all have their own distinct character.

Santa Cruz is known for laid-back surf culture, but just a few miles down the coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea is all about quiet luxury. There's a beach town for every taste, and California's mild weather makes it easy to enjoy the coast any time of year.

But when I'm craving Mediterranean vibes without the pricey flights and jet lag, Newport Beach checks all the boxes.

Newport Harbor feels less like Southern California and more like a European resort town

Newport Beach gives me Mediterranean vibes.…