First off, I just want to say I'm enjoying the game. Combat is simple but fun and the setting seems interesting, though on both counts I've only just started.

However, I have had some issues finding side quests to do? I stumbled upon Nyla's first quest to explore the shambler-infested village but she didn't have another one after that and neither did the family I recruited from the mission. I completed the first Hunter's Guild request of course but I can't find the creatures I'm supposed to fight for the second one since anything that spawns in the beach areas can murder the Hell out of me. I have found a couple of loner settlements, but neither the depressed guy just north of the road to Panvatino(sp?) nor the exiled Tree Hugger want anything. The beach house was empty. The Trail Blazers didn't have any quests either. The only other one I found was from the Deadlander outpost and I don't think I can even survive going that far east.

Where should I be looking for things to do? I've been mostly stuck to the level 5-10 regions because I take a few steps over and suddenly everything is over level 30.

Hello, and thanks for the question! Glad to hear you are enjoying the game so far :D

New quests come available in a variety of ways:

1) As Nolan levels up new quests will become available (try checking back in old places every 5 levels or so...)
2) As you complete the main storyline, new areas (and accompanying quests) will open up as well.
3) Once you have reached the "midway point" of the game, new quests will open up in nearly every major location.
4) As new characters join the party and move back to town, their storylines will open up as well.

Just note that while storyline and faction quests generally do not open up until you are an appropriate level to complete them, there are some requests that can be a bit difficult to complete when you first unlock them. Don't worry; there's no "timer" or anything on those quests so you can always come back later!

Based on what you've written (and avoiding any major spoilers)...There is a person inside Nyla's family store that should have a quest for you once you hit Level 10, and the Deadhander quest will NOT require you to go into any high-level areas (though the Antlion CAN be tough...). Just head in a straight line east from the outpost and you will run into the encounter you need near the edge of the large dead forest (you will find a hidden area to explore...the Antlion is lurking somewhere around that zone). Finally, when you first start out, the Trailblazers should only have one quest available (the one requiring you to gather 25 Wasp Stingers); completing it right away can be a bit grindy, but will unlock some nice low-tier gear options for your party. If you've done all that, I'd recommend starting on the main storyline (helping Gregory) and you will find by the time you return there are quite a few more things to do. If you ever are unclear about what to do next in the main storyline, Bridget will give you a reminder (she's near the kitchen table in your home in Pedregal Springs).

I hope this was helpful, and don't hesitate to ask any other questions you may have!