The Copper Coast UNESCO Geopark is a designated area comprising a stretch of the southern coast of Ireland in County Waterford, extending for some 17 km from Kilfarrasy in the east to Stradbally in the west. It was the first geopark designated in the state, and the second on the island.

The area was formed in 1997 by the local interest group (called the Copper Coast Tourism Group), delared a European Geopark in 2001 and an UNESCO Global Geopark in 2004. This was done to aid in sustainability but also with a hope of boosting the profile of the area as a tourist destination. The area is not officially awarded by the UNESCO organization.

In 2015 the relationship with UNESCO, which had always existed was consolidated when Global Geoparks became UNESCO Global Geoparks. Also in 2004, substantial InterReg funding necessitated the forming of a limited company. That funding enabled, among other things, the purchase of Tankardstown Mining Engine House and Monksland Church. Further funding from Leader has meant that we could do up the church building for use as a multi-purpose Geopark Centre and community facility, with a café, shop, exhibition space and the possibility to use it for small seminars, courses and performances.

To date we have been greatly assisted by modest financial backing from Waterford County Council and the Geological Survey of Ireland and their practical and moral support in many different ways.