New NEX-5N user - please critique my coastline photos

Hello all!

I'm new to manual photography, previously used just a simple P&S camera. A couple of weeks ago I got myself a Sony NEX-5N with kit lens. Started reading "Understanding Exposure" as well as DPReview. Really interested in getting some feedback on my shots (posted in gallery, fullsize with EXIF info, no post processing). All photos done handheld with auto-focus (will explore manual focus later, still figuring out proper Aperture/Shutter/ISO settings).

I have a pretty thick skin so feel free to say it like it is.

Question: To improve overall sharpness, can the kit lens perform better than my shots (i.e. still need to learn how to use it), or a better lens would be needed?