Whether you’re out for margaritas with the girls, or playing volleyball at the beach, somehow the sunshine seems to bring out your sassy side, and that can mean plenty of flirting as the temperature rises. If a summer romance is your goal, then go ahead and get to know that cute lifeguard who’s so much fun to hang out with – and who has zero in common with you aside from loving the beach.

But if you’re someone who’s more interested in “happily ever after” than “happy to know you right now,” take a look at these tips for figuring out whether a guy is just a fling – or the real thing.

Signs that he’s only into you until September:

1. He religiously avoids any mention of plans after Labour Day.

2. You don’t know where he lives when he’s not at his family’s cottage.

3. His cell phone rings often and he asks the person on the other line, “Can I call you back?” (Are you sure you’re the only one he’s seeing?)

4. He doesn’t introduce you to his friends

5. When you ask if he’s interested in a relationship, he tells you that he just wants to have fun and “see where things go” or he says that he’s not looking for “anything serious right now, but that could change.” This is one of the oldest lines in the book! Believe me, the chances of things changing are as likely as the proverbial leopard changing its spots.

Signs that Your Summer Romance Could Blossom Past the Fall:

1. You have more in common than liking Cold Play. You share similar values, interests and goals in life.

2. He talks about the future, even casually. E.g., “Hey, too bad you can’t meet my sister. She’ll be back from Europe at Thanksgiving – you guys will totally hit it off!”

3. He introduces you to important people in his life, like friends and family members.

4. You have an argument – and you’re able to compromise and see each other’s point of view.

5. You know his first name, last name, birthday, where he works, and what his five-year plan is.

6. Your friends think he’s kinda cool too.

Newlywed Lisa Summers is a freelance writer for the Toronto Star and the author of "Men Are Like Mocha Lattes," a fictionalized memoir about her search for Mr. Right. Lisa has appeared on shows such as Canada AM and CBC to give relationship advice, and is also a repeat guest on Breakfast Television. She lives in southern Ontario where she practices law part-time and also pursues a creative career in writing, television and film.