14 Top Picks: Kid-Friendly Beaches on Oahu – A Family’s Guide (Updated 2024)

Are you looking for the best kid-friendly beaches on Oahu?

If you’re planning a family vacation to Oahu, you’re in the right place. 

As an Oahu local, I’ve explored the island extensively to find the best kid-friendly beaches Oahu has to offer. 

From the serene shores of the North Shore to hidden gems perfect for families, this guide covers it all. 

Whether you’re seeking the best family beach for a relaxing day in the sun or need kid-friendly pro tips for making the most of your stay, I’ve got you covered. 

Discover which beaches on Oahu are best for families, and explore a variety of kid-friendly activities Oahu is known for. 

This comprehensive list ensures that every family member, from babies to toddlers, will have an unforgettable beach adventure.

🗺️ Map of Kid-Friendly Beaches on Oahu

Save this list of kid-friendly beaches on Oahu:

🏖️ Top 3 family beaches on Oahu

• Ala Moana Beach Park
• Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
• Ko Olina Lagoons

Top 11 Kid-Friendly Beaches in Oahu for a Fun Family Day

1. Ala Moana Beach Park

Getting there: Google Maps Link For (parking lot)

Ala Moana Beach Park is the closest park from Waikiki, across from Ala Moana Centre.

It is the largest beach park on the island, both beach-wise and in green space.

Ala Moana Beach is a popular choice for families seeking a mix of relaxation and fun activities. Its calm waters and sandy shores allow young children to splash around safely. 

Parents can relax under the shade of palm trees while watching their little ones exploring the shoreline. 

For more adventurous families, the park offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling (not so great), with gentle waves ideal for beginners and instructors available nearby.

I love this beach for its calm atmosphere.

Tip: Homelessness is more prevalent on the canal side of the green space. People are around but won’t disturb you.

🤿 Is Ala Moana Beach good for snorkeling? Yes, depending on water conditions, you can spot tropical fish, corals, and turtles. But it is not so great as in Hanauma Bay. 

🚗 Is Ala Moana Park parking free? Yes, there is free self-parking in the Ala Moana Beach Park lot. Street parking and a lot across the road are available, but be cautious of spots reserved for emergency vehicles to avoid tickets.

Bonus: Check Out the Magic Island Lagoon  (In the same area)

You should also check out the calmest beach in Magic Island lagoon, a manmade peninsula at the east end of Ala Moana Beach Park.

It’s an ideal spot to lounge on a beach chair, take a tranquil swim, or experience swimming as a mermaid.

It features large seawalls and a shallow lagoon perfect for your keiki (children) to swim in. 

Enjoy shady trees and picnic tables with a view. Restrooms and showers are also available. 

2. Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon (Hilton Lagoon)

Getting there: Google Maps Link (multiple parking lot options)

I think it is one of the best beaches in Oahu for families. Thanks to its proximity to the hotels and the actual beach, this manmade lagoon is great for kids of any age.

Duke Kahanamoku Beach is maintained by Hilton Hawaiian Village (formerly known as Hilton Lagoon); this lagoon is a spectacular five-acre salt-water oasis featuring a state-of-the-art water circulation system. 

Just next to Ala Moana Beach Park, kids can enjoy shallow waters perfect for a variety of activities such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canoe rental, aqua-cycling, and stand-up paddle yoga.

The actual Kahanamoku beach is just 2 minutes away, providing a better spot for parents to swim since the lagoon is not deep enough.

The only downside is the sand, which isn’t soft enough for lounging. We prefer to come here for a picnic and sit on the grass with a picnic blanket.

Oahu Travel Tip: It may get crowded during the day and for the sunsets. I find that the best time to visit Kahanamoku Lagoon is in the mornings. 

Can anyone use Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon? It is fully open to the public, regardless of whether you’re staying at the HHV resort.

*There are not actual restrooms or showers at the lagoon.*

The closest restrooms are in the Hilton Hawaiian Village (HHV). Walk down the boardwalk and enter the HHV complex; restrooms are at the far end of the open-air restaurant on your left. 

Additionally, there are public restrooms between the lagoon and the Steak Shack, with one next to the Steak Shack, two more on the Hale Koa hotel grounds, and another in Fort DeRussy park. 

3. Alan Davis Beach

Getting there:

Alana Davis Beach, a hidden gem beneath the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail on Oahu, offers a serene getaway. 

How to get to Alan Davis beach? To reach it, park at the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail lot and take a short, 10-minute walk on an unpaved trail through the bushes. 

This picturesque swimming cove offers crystal-clear turquoise waters and a cozy, quiet atmosphere, free from man-made structures or artificial sand.

If you’re looking for a quiet beach for kids, this is your beach.

🌺 Experience the real Hawaii away from the crowds.

Tip: A bit of a rocky hike to get there but once there, there are some small gentle tide pools.

Alan Davis Beach offers safe cliff jumping in a calm swimming area.

Local’s Tip: Weekdays are best to avoid weekend crowds.

Weather conditions can vary, so always check before heading out on your adventure with little ones. 

4. Kaimana Beach 

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Kaimana Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling Waikiki Beach, making it ideal for families with children.  

The gentle waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with opportunities to spot 🦭Hawaiian monk seals and 🐢green sea turtles near the shallow reefs.

5. Lanikai Beach

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Lanikai Beach is renowned as one of Oahu’s most picturesque and peaceful spots.

It is ideal for kids and boasts a picture-perfect setting straight out of a dream. 

The sand is the softest I’ve found on Oahu. The water in Lanikai Beach is calm and crystal blue-turquoise in color, simply picture-perfect Hawaii. 

Related article: 42 Best Things To Do on Oahu

Truthfully, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu — so make sure it’s on your Oahu itinerary.

Good for kids: Lanikai is perfect for families with young children because the waves are gentle and the water is shallow, making it one of the best beaches for toddlers on the island.

The only downside – Parking: Lanikai is an upscale community on the east side of Oahu, and there are no public beaches. So you have to park your car along the residential street or just up the road in Kailua. Arrive Early!

6. Kailua Beach

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Kailua Beach is a safe and enjoyable destination for kids, featuring gentle slopes into shallow waters ideal for playing and wading. 

Families can also enjoy activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with rental facilities readily available. 

Lifeguards are present during designated hours, adding peace of mind for parents concerned about safety.

There’s plenty of parking in the early morning hours, but after lunch can be challenging. If you can’t find a spot there’s some option for street parking nearby.

7. Ko olina Lagoons

Getting there: Google Maps Link to Lagoon 4

These four man-made lagoons on the island’s west side are owned by the Koolina Resort but are open to the public for swimming and relaxation. 

There are 4 Ko Olina lagoons connected by a short walk along the beach:

🏝️ 1 – Kolola (whale)

🏝️ 2 – Honu (turtle)

🏝️ 3 – Nai’a (dolphin) 

🏝️ 4 – Ulua (fish)

Each lagoon has its own charm, with calm, clear waters that are not completely isolated with a rocks from the ocean, allowing marine life like 🐢 sea turtles to occasionally visit the beaches. 

The lagoons are stroller-accessible, making it easy to navigate with little ones and beach gear. Lagoon 4 is particularly favored for its tranquil atmosphere and amenities. 

There are shallow areas where the water is knee-high, allowing you to give your small children some independence to enjoy themselves without constant supervision.

The views are breathtaking, especially with the beautiful rock faces. 

🅿️ Parking Tip: Despite its popularity, with the lagoons being part of the Disney Aulani Resort complex, there can be a wait to access the parking.

Arrive early. We waited 30 minutes in line to get a parking spot, as there were only 100 parking spots open to the public.

Oahu Travel Tips: One drawback is the presence of rocks in the sand, so it’s advisable to bring water shoes if you plan to stand on them and flip-flops to walk comfortably on the hot sand.

Despite this, I highly recommend Koolina Lagoons for a perfect family beach day.

⛳ Good to know: This beach does not have lifeguards on duty, and as it is privately owned, certain items such as alcohol, pets, tents, beach umbrellas, bikes are not permitted.

8. Waikiki Beach

With its gentle waves and shallow waters, Waikiki Beach is considered one of the best Oahu beaches for toddlers and young kids to splash around safely.

It’s also one of the beaches near Diamond Head that you can spot from there.

Families can relax on the soft sand while watching their children build sandcastles or play in the water.

Waikiki Beach does have breakwaters, particularly in certain sections to help reduce wave action and create calmer swimming conditions.

Kids can try their hand at boogie boarding or take a gentle surf lesson in the calm waters under the watchful eye of experienced instructors.

Downside: It can get noisy and crowded as it is situated right by the famous hotels like Royal Hawaiian and Outrigger Waikiki Hotel. 

Downside 2: Waikiki Beach is the most visited beach on Oahu, and the restrooms can become dirty quickly. Although attendants regularly clean these facilities, homeless individuals also frequented them.

Do you have to pay for Waikiki Beach? Yes, Waikiki Beach is a public beach, and it is free.

Good to know: The hotels do not have private beach sections; all beach areas are public. If you are staying at one of the hotels, you can use their restrooms while at the beach.

Check also: Kuhio Beach Park in Waikiki

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You’ll find Kuhio Beach near the end of Waikiki near Queen Kapiolani Park. 

Like Waikiki, it has a giant breakwater wall that creates a lagoon-like swimming area, perfect for families with children.

This vibrant location offers a variety of activities, including surfing and snorkeling.

The sand is exceptionally soft, and the beach attracts a bustling crowd on certain days.

9. Kualoa Beach Park

In my opinion this beach has the most beautiful views with a tranquil atmosphere, great for little ones. 

One of the highlights of Kualoa Regional Park is its stunning backdrop of lush mountains and swaying palm trees, creating a picturesque setting for your family vacation. 

There are plenty of picnic places on the grassy areas right on the beach with a beautiful mountain backdrop. 

The water is relatively calm, but do check the weather and water conditions before going.

Don’t miss the fun activities in Kualoa ranch, you have a ton of tour options to choose from.

But specifically for kids I recommend this Kualoa Ranch Combo – Movie Tour & Kaneohe Bay Catamaran Cruise with Buffet Lunch.

10. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Getting there: Google Maps Link

The bay offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with abundant marine life to observe.

Hanauma Bay can be crowded, and children should always be supervised closely.

With a gradual slope from the sandy shore into the water, even the family’s youngest members can safely and comfortably experience the ocean.

🎟️ Note: You need to make a reservation through the official website 2 days prior to your visit to Hanauma Bay, as there may be limited spots available for each day (even if you don’t plan to snorkel). The tickets get sold out in minutes. 

Kid-Friendly Beaches on Oahu’s North Shore

11. Waimea Bay Beach Park

Getting there: Google Maps Link

The surf at Waimea Bay is famous for its huge waves, reaching up to 50 feet from October to March.

In the summertime, the ocean transforms into a completely different place.

The ocean is calm, flat, and clear, making it perfect for little ones to swim and dive safely. 

The pristine sandy shore and crystal-clear waters make it a favorite among families looking for fun and relaxation. 

Related post: Waimea Bay Guide

Parents can enjoy the stunning surroundings while children splash in the gentle waves, making Waimea Bay Beach Park a top choice for a kid-friendly beach day on Oahu.

If you are ready to snorkel, you may spot some 🐢 sea turtles.

Note: There is no food around this area, so I recommend bringing lunch and snacks for the day.

The closest food trucks are a short drive away towards Shark’s Cove and Pupukea or a longer drive (and traffic) to Haleiwa town.

Also check nearby: Kel ki Beach

Tip: No lounge chairs or umbrellas to rent (If you’re staying for longer, stop by a local Costco, Walmart or Target and pick up a couple of inexpensive beach chairs and a cooler)

12. Kuilima Cove and Turtle Bay

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Kuilima Cove Beach is a beautiful and relatively secluded family friendly beach next to the Turtle Bay Resort. 

Kuilima Cove Beach is an ideal spot on Oahu’s North Shore for families with young children and beginner snorkelers.

The serene cove, protected by shoals, keeps the water calm, making it safe for kids and providing an excellent snorkeling experience with a decent amount of marine life.

However, the water is not always clear enough to see many fish.

The beach is great for families, but be careful on the rough, jagged rocks, which can be dangerous.

13. Sharks Cove at Pupukea Beach Park

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Visiting Shark’s Cove with kids can be a fun adventure, but you need to be cautious, especially when walking down to the beach where there are sharp rocks.

I’d recommend going there for fun just to explore rather than spending a whole day.

You’ll need water shoes to protect your feet, and while the rocky terrain can be tricky for young children, it’s worth it once in the water as you can see a variety of fish, though you might not spot any turtles. 

14. Makaha Beach Park

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Makaha Beach is on Oahu’s west (leeward) side, accessible via Farrington Highway. It offers a unique blend of tranquility and activity.

The beach is very quiet and doesn’t attract many tourists.

🐳 Whale watching peaks during December at Makaha Beach.

Before heading to Makaha Beach, check the weather and water conditions, especially since the waves can occasionally be larger here.

The beach is well-maintained, and there are nearby bathrooms, making it a comfortable choice for families and adventurers alike seeking a picturesque and enjoyable coastal experience on Oahu.

🌟Bonus: Secret Beach  – At Kaneohe Marine Corp Base

Getting there: Ensure you are headed to Kaneohe Marine Corps Base before planning your visit.

One of the lesser-known beaches on Oahu is located within the Marine Corps Base Hawaii, also known as Kaneohe Bay. 

Note: Military ID required for base access. 

This secluded beach, often referred to as Secret Beach or Hidden Beach, maintains a quieter and more serene atmosphere compared to other beaches on the island. 

If you can get access it is perfect for kids to enjoy.

This family-friendly beach offers activities such as paddleboarding and snorkeling, with a shallow reef protecting the shoreline from waves.

Please note, there are no bathrooms or showers available at this location.

🌟Bonus – Bellows Beach 

Getting there: Google Maps Link

Bellows Beach, nestled within Oahu’s eastern shore, is a favorite among locals and families alike for its soft sand and clear waters.

Less crowded than many other beaches. Part of Bellows Air Force Station, portions of the beach are open to the public on weekends and federal holidays. 

This beach, with small waves, is ideal for swimming and sunbathing; Bellows Beach also features amenities such as restrooms, outdoor showers, and spacious picnic areas.

They have parking, camping, and family-friendly BBQs, while the military side includes lifeguards and covered picnic spots.

🌟 Bonus: Kamehameha Beach – Dog Beach

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Getting there: Google Maps Link

Note: You have to have base access to visit this place.

As the name implies, it is one of the dog-friendly beaches on Oahu.

This local beach spot is perfect for families, especially those with young children.

The water is incredibly shallow in some parts, making it safe and enjoyable for kids to play in.

You can even spot little 🐠 fish swimming around, adding to the charm.

It’s rarely crowded, offering clear, calm waters and a fantastic view of the island’s west side.

No amenities at this bea

Tips for families staying in hawaii

When visiting Hawaii with your family to explore Oahu’s family-friendly beaches, remember these tips:

🧴Pack and reapply sunscreen regularly, and bring hats, sunglasses, and rash guards to stay safe from the sun at these beautiful beaches.

💦 Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water bottles or reusable containers to refresh everyone while having fun at kid-friendly beaches on Oahu.

Tip for parents: Not all beaches have food healthy options nearby, so pack snacks like fruits, granola bars, or sandwiches.

🛟 Hawaii beach Safety Tips

Be aware of the Ocean

Always be aware of where you are in the water and also what’s around you.

The ocean moves and can pull you far out from shore if you’re not paying attention.

Before you go

☀️ Be Informed: Check weather and water conditions beforehand; if conditions aren’t ideal, consider rescheduling your beach day.

💦 Hydrate: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day, avoiding drinks like caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate you.

🧴 Protect your skin: Apply sunscreen before leaving home and reapply as needed, and ensure there’s shade available for breaks from the sun. And please make sure it’s reef safe!

❗ Have a plan: Always establish a family meeting place in advance with your kids and family members. Ensure children understand to seek safety immediately if they become lost, asking police or lifeguards for help until they are reunited.

⛱️ Be visible: Use distinctive markers like brightly colored umbrellas to help keep track of children.

🗒️ Know the rules: Familiarize yourself with specific beach rules and regulations by reading signage.

At the Beach

Check in with lifeguards: Consult lifeguards for safety advice and to learn about any hazards.

Stay in designated areas: Stick to swimming zones monitored by lifeguards for safety.

sea turtles in hawaii

As a general rule, you should never touch any animals in the ocean as it can be harmful to the animal, the environment, and yourself.

However, sea turtles in Hawaii are federally protected and you can receive a huge fine if you’re caught touching them.

Rip currents

Rip currents, which are fast-moving currents that flow from the shore out to sea, are dangerous and should be avoided.

If caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore instead of trying to swim directly against it.

Use a flotation device like a boogie board or surfboard, if available. Signal for help if needed, and rely on lifeguards for assistance.

Avoid attempting to rescue someone in distress by yourself to prevent putting yourself at risk.

The dangers of sand and getting trapped

Playing in the sand is fun at the beach. People build sand castles and dig holes, but deep holes can be dangerous.

If a hole is too deep, you could get trapped inside with sand falling on you.

To stay safe, only dig holes as deep as your knees.

If stuck, stay calm, call for help, and protect your face and airways.

If it happens to someone else, call 911, alert lifeguards, and keep others away from the hole until help arrives.

Never approach or pull out someone trapped in sand above their waist to avoid further danger or injury.

Stingrays

Stingrays are small, bottom-dwelling fish found worldwide. Although it is a rare occurrence in Hawaii, you can still spot some manta rays here.

They hide on the sandy ocean floor and feed near shore on shellfish and small fish.

Their tails have venomous spines to defend against threats, causing painful stings if stepped on.

Treating a sting with hot water can help reduce pain by breaking down the venom, but cleaning the wound is important to prevent infection and seek medical attention if necessary.

To avoid stingrays, shuffle your feet while walking in the water, especially when surfing, and consult lifeguards for safety tips before heading to the beach.

Jellyfish

Jellyfish capture prey with venomous harpoon-like darts in their tentacles, triggered upon contact, although they do not actively target or fire at will.

Lifeguards monitor beaches for safety, and if stung, it’s crucial to exit the water immediately, apply hot water to the affected area, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist.

By following these tips and preparing ahead, you’ll set yourself up for a safe and enjoyable family beach day!

You can find the latest information about beach safety on this website.

Family Photos With A Professional Photographer

If you’re visiting Oahu for the first time, don’t miss taking family photos with a photographer.

Do this Honolulu Family Photoshoot in Oahu with your kids to capture the beautiful moments of your Hawaii family vacation.

Let’s be honest: taking family photos can be hard, especially if you’re using a timer or squeezing everyone into a selfie. 

Instead, why not splurge on professional family pictures that will look amazing in your home? 

Scheduling a photo session with talented photographer Ryujin on Oahu, where he can capture your little ones against the beautiful backgrounds of Kapiolani or Ala Moana Beach Park.

He’ll capture beautiful moments at four popular spots, and you’ll get 120 high-quality beautiful photos to keep and display.

Best Hotels On Oahu For Families

Choosing a hotel for your family in Oahu can be tough because there are so many options with different amenities and prices. 

However, the best areas for family-friendly hotels are Waikiki, Ko Olina, and the North Shore.

While other places on Oahu are nice, they may not have as many family-friendly resorts or activities for everyone.

Where to stay on Oahu with kids?

If you are wondering where to stay in Oahu with family, then Disney Aulani Resort is the best family resort in Oahu.

Plus, it is near beautiful Ko Olina Lagoons, where kids can safely swim and explore.

It is basically a magical family paradise at in Hawaii.

This award-winning resort offers something for everyone to enjoy, with many activities and amenities included in your stay!

Final Thoughts: Kid-Friendly Beaches on Oahu

Looking for the ultimate family beach experience on Oahu?

Look no further than the kid-friendly beaches scattered across this beautiful island paradise.

Whether you’re seeking calm waters and gentle waves ideal for young swimmers, or scenic spots with amenities like showers and stroller-friendly paths, Oahu’s beaches offer it all.

From the famous Ko Olina Lagoons where sea turtles occasionally visit, to Waikiki Beach with its vibrant atmosphere and iconic Diamond Head backdrop, there’s something for every family.

Related article: 42 Best Things to do on Oahu

Kid-Friendly beaches Oahu: FAQ

Its gorgeous white-sand beaches, tranquil turquoise water, and family-friendly Hawaiian culture make it a great choice for a family vacation. 

Whether you’re doing a trip to Oahu with baby, with young kids, or with teens trip, Oahu’s friendly and tropical vibes offer plenty of age-appropriate activities. 

is Hawaii Kid Friendly?

Yes, Hawaii is very kid-friendly! With beautiful beaches, fun activities like snorkeling and hiking, and cool cultural experiences like luau performances and visiting historical sites, families can have a great time.

In Hawaiian culture, ‘ohana means family, and many resorts have special things for kids like pools, kids’ clubs, and planned activities, making it a perfect place for family vacations.

Where to swim with kids in Oahu?

Our favorite spots for kid-friendly beaches on Oahu include Ko Olina lagoons, Alana Davis Beach, Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon and Ala Moana Beach.

Which Hawaiian island is best for first time families?

Choosing the best location in Hawaii for family depends on the age of your kids.

If your kids are less than 1-2 years then Maui, with lesser kid activities can be a great Hawaiian island to relax and chill. 

If your kids are older then Oahu is the best family place. With many kid friendly beaches, family-oriented resorts, kids club and playgrounds, staying in Oahu would be your best fit. 

Where are the Best Beaches for Kids on Oahu’s North Shore?

Oahu’s North Shore is famous for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and lively local culture.

Some of the best kid-friendly beaches on Oahu’s North Shore include Kualoa Beach Park, Waimea Beach and Turtle Bay.

Is Waikiki beach safe for kids?

This steep and narrow beach has small waves and a lifeguard tower, making it great for beginner swimmers.

Be careful around the sharp reef, groins, and seawalls in the water. The beach gets narrower as you go east, with a seawall and a walkway behind it.

🏖️ Oahu Beach Tips & Baby Essentials

When you travel with kids to Hawaii, as I mom of a young boy, I recommend coming prepared with these essential things to bring to the beach with kids:

Note: Many Oahu beaches have strict rules about glass containers – avoid bringing these!

What to do on Ohau with kids

I recommend these top tours on Oahu with kids:

What Part of Oahu has the Best Beaches?

Oahu is a paradise for families seeking sun, sand, and waves, with each region offering unique kid-friendly beaches.

For calm waters and gentle surf perfect for young children, the east coast of Oahu is ideal, featuring family-friendly spots like Waikiki Beach and Ala Moana Beach Park and Hilton Lagoon.

On the North Shore, Waimea Bay Beach Park and Kuilima Cove at Turtle Bay offer stunning views and safe swimming, while Sharks Cove at Pupukea Beach Park is perfect for snorkeling and discovering marine life.

Is Oahu Good For Families?

Oahu is a fantastic destination for families seeking sun, sand, and surf, with a wide array of kid-friendly beaches to explore and enjoy.

From the bustling, shallow waters of Waikiki Beach to the tranquil, soft sands of Lanikai Beach, there’s something for everyone.

Many beaches also have lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe and fun experience for families with children.

What is the best beach in Honolulu for kids?

Ala Moana Beach Park is the most kid-friendly beach in Honolulu.

Its protected swimming area offers calm waters perfect for young children to safely enjoy swimming and snorkeling.

The park also features picnic areas, showers, and restrooms, making it a convenient choice for families.

We also enjoy the lagoon near the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Is Waikiki Beach family friendly?

Waikiki Beach in Oahu is renowned for its stunning views, soft sand, and gentle waves, making it a popular spot for families.

With its calm waters and gradual slope, it’s safe for children to swim and play under supervision.

If you don’t mind the noise and crowds, then this central location near the popular kid friendly resorts will be for you.