They can stop you going straight along the coast (4)

I believe the answer is:

bays

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'they' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are plural nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I don't see?

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bays that I've seen before include "Indentations of a shoreline" , "Laurel trees" , "Inlets; barks" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app