There is quite a bit of platforming and exploration in some of the larger islands.. and there are a lot of large islands. As for interaction with objects, you can also kick and throw of course. The game is a sandbox though, don't worry too much about the mining aspect, just play around and explore the structures; potter around a bit.
Also, best to place your house in a town as it does give you a sense of "roots" and permanence and also gives you privileges at the workbench. (you also get a 20% party privilege bonus when the town is cleared). The cleared towns have a purpose that will be revealed down the line and you'll be able to re-enter them for said purpose.
