I am looking for nice -- but not overly pricey -- places to stay and eat on the Oregon coast. Any recommendations from those familiar with the area would be greatly appreciated.

You may get a couple of responses on this board from your request but I would suggest you take a look at a guide book that is current and reviews places to stay and eat in the area. The advantage of this is that a book contains somewhat objective descriptions allowing you to make a choice based on the amenities, ambience, etc. you prefer rather than trying to rely on the conclusory opinions of others. Such a book is "Northwest Best Places" published by Sasquatch Books. I use this book frequently when I am looking for places to stay or eat in the Northwest. This book, I think, amounts to reasoned "recommendations from those familiar with the area."

What is YOUR definition of "overly pricey."
Providing some idea -- perhaps a range or not to exceed $ per night would be helpful.
Lodging on the Oregon coast (any coast, of course) is more during the summer months when most travel occurs and Friday/Saturday nights.

Stayed at a very nice, reasonably priced ($75 a night seems right) motel at Rockaway Beach in July of 1995. Enjoyed the visit; wish I could return to Oregon for a week. Tillamook Cheese is within striking distance. We still order Christmas cheese from there.

Didn't mention if you have childen--IMO this influences places that I would pick.
Our teenagers liked Seaside, lots of stuff to do so they said but what they did mostly was "walkaround" Motels that faced the ocean, expensive $100 plus. However, places back away were more reasonable. I, personally, liked
Cannon Beach but it is much more expensive.
I totally agree with recommendation for "Northwest BestPlaces" it is a great reference and I have used their previous editions with good results.
Rockaway Beach area is O.K. but I didn't care for the beach (dirty) and it was "one long gut-"--motels on ocean side and non-discript shops and fastfood type eating places on the other side of the highway. Imust admit , this was 2 years ago so it my have improved.
Scattered along the coast is a chain called Mo's-good chower and fish and chips with reasonable prices.
Hope this helps....

If you are going to stay in Astoria the Red Lion Inn is interesting. The decor is early 70's in some places but most of the rooms are on a pier over the water and face the marina.