Why can granite and other resistant rocks limit the formation of wave-cut platforms?

Wave-cut platforms are formed primarily through the process of wave abrasion, which erodes the base of sea cliffs to create a notch and a subsequent rock ledge. However, the formation of these platforms is heavily dependent on the specific rock type and structure present along the coast.1

Solid, massive rocks such as granite are highly resistant to the mechanical action of wave abrasion. Because these rocks do not erode as easily as weaker materials, they can modify or entirely prevent the development of a platform. In instances where such resistant bedrock is present, the cliff may instead plunge directly into deep water, a feature that is only slightly affected by wave erosion and thus inhibits the formation of an abrasion platform. While erosional coasts generally feature rugged topography, the rate at which they retreat is significantly slowed by the inherent resistance of the bedrock to erosion.12