I run around the island scouting a bit looking for the ocean. That way I can set up a port right on the shore. Later on you can set up a portal hub and have a portal at the spawn. So no need to build next to spawn if the spot is not ideal.

There is a lot of sailing involved later on if you plan on bringing ore back to a central location. A spot on the shore is ideal unless you don't mind using a cart to haul over land.