Modern Mediterranean architecture has distinctive characteristics originally conceived of in the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, such as Spain, France, and Italy.

Some Mediterranean Architectural Characteristics

1. Low-pitched tile roofs - extremely heat and weather resistant
2. Stucco exterior - popular in warmer climates for better insulation
3. Columns, arches, arched windows - they look good, probably a roman leftover
4. Decorative balconies with wrought iron rails - because the original designers were rich lol

Normally, Mediterranean homes offer open floor plans and many windows and doors that open to outdoor living areas like courtyards and pool decks. They were originally designed to keep the interiors cool so that makes this style of architecture popular on the beach.

Many Mediterranean style homes in my area in Southwest Florida are built for luxury as well as climate and they can cost anywhere from 2 to 60 million dollars. Not only good for the beach but great for on the canals that lead out to the gulf of mexico and overlooking golf course water obstacles too!

Images courtesy of https://weberdesigngroup.com of Naples.

References:
https://www.weberdesigngroup.com/home-plans/style/mediterranean-house-plans/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediterranean_Sea