As I finish up my sixteenth trip to Cape Cod in my eighteenth year of life, I am awestruck at just how special this place is. Full of life and a tremendous amount of traffic--not to mention, of course, the beach--one can always find something to do, whether it's on the lower-, mid-, or upper- portion of the Cape. Here are five signs you've spent your summers on the mid-Cape:

1. A special beach

On the Cape, the beach one usually goes to is near their rental, but days are always reserved to get up early for a trip to a more unique (read: crowded) beach. Whether it's known for its shallow pools, small waves, and hermit crabs like Mayflower or it's incredible surf perfect for boogie boarding and shark sightings like Nauset, it's certainly worth the loss of sleep.

2. I scream, you scream... Need I say more?

Homemade ice cream is ever abundant on Cape Cod, and there is no shortage of places to stop for it. Sundae School is a fan favorite, and just might make one wonder why they bother any other time of the year.

3. Sharks galore

Chances are that if you're a frequent Cape-goer, you have a shark tracking app on your phone. Sharks seem to have infested the waters in recent years, scaring boaters, lifeguards and casual swimmers alike with each new sighting. Thankfully, it's a little easier to stay safe on vacation with OCEARCH and Marine Conservation Science's Expedition White Shark apps.

4. Being one with nature

Known for its conservation efforts as climate change continues to threaten its very existence, the Cape is chock full of opportunities to explore and appreciate nature. Nature walks are all over the Cape, including the beautiful Monomoy Island, which boasts a great chance to view harbor and gray seals; the quaint trails at Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary; and Cape Cod Natural History Museum's beautiful trails, aquarium, and a fascinating look at the coastal erosion the Cape has faced in the past as well as a look at its future shape.

5. A trip to Hyannis

Whether you've braved the traffic to run errands or stalk the Kennedys, almost every mid-Caper has made the trip to Hyannis. Home of the Cape Cod Mall, John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum and Memorial, and the adorable shops on Main Street, one could easily spend the day in Hyannis.

Spending time on the mid portion of the Cape offers lots of fun regardless of age and interest, full of beautiful looks at nature and lots of opportunities for ice cream.