1. The Ocean & The Beaches

I thought I'd start off with the obvious here when I say that the ocean calms me with its tranquil beauty and endless waves. Newport is known for its soft-sanded beaches (pictured above is Easton's Beach) in the summertime and year-round views from the beautiful Ocean Avenue. The Cliff Walk is also a popular option for those who want more of a challenging walk with views just as rewarding. I can't be the only one who loves the smell of salt water.

2. The Easy Accessibility

You can walk or bike to anywhere in the main "city" (I still like to consider it a town to preserve its cuteness factor). The mansions, beaches and downtown are also extremely easy to access in your own vehicle, by trolley car and by public bus if walking or biking is not your style. Mini scooter cars are also available for rental by the hour (as my friend and I model above).

3. It's Super Dog-Friendly

It seems that every store and restaurant has a doggy water bowl outside. The dogs of Newport love to walk downtown, swim in the ocean or chill out on many of the dog-friendly restaurant patios around town. I love taking my aunt and uncle's dog, McGee (above), out for a stroll on a warm summer afternoon.

4. The Shopping

Despite its reputation for having become a preppy city over the past few years, Newport has something to offer everyone, especially those with a taste for the nautical. Downtown Newport is home to the official store of the Newport Mansions, trendy fashion boutiques, "tourist trap" (seriously, there is even a store called Tourist Trap) shops that have the word "Newport" on practically anything you can print on or embroider, and even hybrid stores that sell trendy Newport shirts.

5. The Sunsets

Anywhere along the western shores of Aquidneck Island or on the water in the Narragansett Bay is perfect to watch the sunset over the tranquil waters.

6. The Mansions

How could I write about Newport without mentioning what is probably its most defining feature? The Breakers, Marble House, Kingscote and many others boast a proud history of Newport as the summer city of the elite. Also, during the holiday season, the mansions are beautifully decorated with lights, tinsel, trees and gingerbread models of Newport. Above is probably the most famous of them all; The Breakers, summer home to the Vanderbilt family.

7. The Food

There are countless amazing restaurants in Newport and its neighboring town, Middletown. Honestly, Lobster rolls are Aquidneck Island's specialty and being an island, it also offers a myriad of fresh fish. No matter if breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert is your favorite meal, you're sure to find a favorite restaurant or two.

8. The Scenery

It seems that every street I walk and every corner I turn has a photogenic piece to it. I don't know how many more blooming flower bushes and beach houses my Snapchat friends can tolerate before they remove me.

9. The Social Activities

Having one of my best friends living in Newport as well as my aunt and uncle definitely is an advantage for me since I know that I'll almost always have a place to stay and people to be with! Newport is a great place for friends, family and couples to enjoy. Date nights at restaurants on the water, girls' nights out at local bars and family picnics on Ocean Avenue are all common activities. Newport is a perfect place to share with the ones you love, and maybe make a friend or two!

10. The Lifestyle

Newport life is quaint yet extravagant. Hustling and bustling, yet relaxed. Island life is really what you want to make of it, and every day is a different adventure or off-day at the pool. Take a relaxed sunset sail or learn to sail your own boat. No matter what you do, it is easy to be the captain of your own boat.