The Nootka Sound is only accessed by boat and floatplane. some of the best launch points are from the marinas in Gold River and Tahsis. Both communities enjoy a wilderness environment and provide easy access to the Pacific Ocean and into Nootka Sound. Nootka Island in the Nootka Sound is the focal point and is rich in First Nation history. The Village of Yuquot, also known as Friendly Cove, is the main village on Nootka Island.

A historic viilage, Yuquot was the summer home to Chief Maquinna and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht people and the Village of Tahsis was their winter home. Although times have changed the Mowachaht/Muchalaht people lived in Yuquot until 1963 and then later, moved their base to the head of the Gold River. In 1996 the Mowachaht/Muchalaht people moved again to Tsaxana, further up the Gold River Valley.

Yuquot, "where the wind blows in all directions", is a historical area with great significance to the establishment of Canada. Nootka Sound and, especially the Village of Yuquot, was the gathering spot where the First Nations people first made contact with the European explorers. The 1770, the British, Spanish and American fur traders were constant visitors when the fur trade was at its highest point.

The Spanish had made previous trips to the area but did not go ashore. So it was not until Captain Cook landed in 1778 that the land was claimed under England's flag. At this time Captain Cook and Chief Maquinna had the famous first encounter between the Europeans and First Nations people on shore. The Spanish Government still considers Friendly Cove part of their history and in 1957 Spain donated two stained glass windows for the church on Nootka Island in Nootka Sound.

The Canadian Government declared Friendly Cove a National Historic Site in 1923 on the discovery of the European explorers. It was not until 1997 that First Nations were successful in having the site recognized as an important part to First Nations history.

In 1996 celebrations began recognizing the importance of the Chief Maquinna and Captain Cook introduction of 1778. The event prompted an annual celebration each August to pay tribute to the importance of this historic site to Canada.

Fast becoming the "Little Brother" of the West Coast Trail, the Nootka Island Trail also explores the rugged untouched wilderness of the west coast. The trail is locally maintained by the people of Friendly Cove and usually takes 4 days comfortably to do the whole trail. There are pit toilets , portable water and garbage disposal at the trail head.

On the Nootka Island Trail all hikers and backpackers are encouraged to pack out what they pack in. The First Nations people charge a landing fee to all visitors who visit Nootka Island to help maintain the trail and village services.

There are other highlights to visit while on Nootka Island and the village of Yuquot. The monument celebrating Captain Cook and Chief Maquinna was erected in 1903 on the exact location of the old Spanish Fort. Since 1911, The Nootka Lighthouse on Rafael Island has guarded the coastlines of Nootka Sound. The church was a symbol of Yuquot since 1875 - 1954 and is also open to visitors.

Yuquot, is located on the south tip of Nootka Island in Nootka Sound.There is moorage at Friendly Cove for a fee. Foot passengers can board the MV Uchuck in Gold River and enjoy a scenic cruise to Friendly Cove as this vessel delivers goods and services to the remote villages in the area.