For many residents of New Jersey, trips "down the shore" are a sacred summer tradition. Whether you go to LBI, Cape May, Avalon, or Wildwood, nothing screams summer like a day spent at your favorite shore town. From Memorial Day to Labor Day people pack the beaches of New Jersey to dig their toes in the sand and soak up some sun. For all those unfamiliar with the Jersey Shore, it is nothing like the hit MTV show depicts it to be.

Here are 8 signs that you spend your summer vacation "down at the Jersey shore".

1. You Say You're Going "Down the Shore" Not "To the Beach"

I've lived in New Jersey all my life and I can not fully explain why we New Jerseyans say this.

2. Wawa Hoagiefest

For those who aren't familiar with the greatest convenience store/gas station of all time, let me introduce you to Wawa. From June to August you can get any classic hoagie for just $4.99. No trip to the Jersey Shore is complete without a stop at Wawa.

3. "Wooder" Ice

Or as my out of state friends will call it "Italian Ice".

4. The Boardwalk

A trip down to the Jersey shore would not be complete without a night at the boardwalk. Whether you're looking to play some mini golf, ride a couple rollercoasters, or get something tasty to eat, the Jersey shore boardwalks have what you're looking for.

5. Food

Depending on which Jersey shore beach you call home you may have different favorites. In Ocean City it may be Kohr Bros. frozen custard or Jonhson's popcorn, but venture a little further north to LBI and you'll find the favorites to be CHEGG or an "elephant ear" from Crust and Crumb Bakery.

6. The "Shoobies" and "Bennies"

Nothing can ruin your relaxing trip down the shore like the loud and obnoxious group of New Yorkers/ North Jerseyans, more commonly known as a "shooby" or a "benny".

7. Traffic

Jersey traffic is bad as it is, but add in all the shore goers and your commute is suddenly twice as long as it should be.

8. The View

The sunrises and sunsets down the shore are my favorite parts about summers in Jersey. The views are unbeatable.

Bruce Springsteen had it just right when he said "Anyone who's grown up or lived on the Jersey Shore knows the place is unique".