Why can a narrow beach at the base of a cliff slow cliff erosion?

A narrow beach at the base of a cliff acts as a protective buffer against the power of the ocean. By forming a physical barrier of sediment—which may consist of sand, cobbles, or boulders—the beach shields the bedrock from direct wave attack.1

Because the most significant erosion of sea cliffs typically occurs at the base where waves batter the rock surface, the presence of this sediment layer prevents the waves from reaching and undercutting the cliff face. This protection effectively slows the rate of cliff retreat, as the waves are unable to exert their full force directly against the cliff's base. These beaches often accumulate during periods of lower wave energy and may be removed during stormy seasons when larger waves arrive.12