High Noon: Best Oregon Coast Spot?

On his Facebook wall, Idaho Statesman opinionator Kevin Richert posts: “It’s pretty likely that Chris and I are going to explore the Oregon coast for our kid-free vacation in July. And since I’m probably the only person who has never gone there, I’m looking for tips from those of you who have gone.

Question: What town would make a good base of operations for a trip to the coast — and why?