@Fieldsoftripe9 put all your house etc on the beach, I found it easier to design that way and then just move them to where you want them around what you've designed.
Also make sure you collect resources every day cos you'll need loads in the beginning.
Also take advantage of all the bells I've put around my island, its so much easier if you have plenty so you can build inclines and bridges and move your houses about.
My gates will be open for a couple of hours tonight so feel free to come over