"Dosville" was, in 1850, home to a few dozen farms and 26 residences for a total population of approximately 100, all a stone's throw from the Saint-Laurent church (some of the church vestiges date back to the 12th century). The seaside resort grew from and around the racecourse, an evolution orchestrated by the Duke of Morny and several investors in 1858. The Parisian aristocracy quickly flocked to this stunning resort lined with imposing villas.

The town experienced a second economic and touristic "boom" in the 20th century when the casino was opened. The film festival created in the 1970s consolidated the town's reputation as an emblem of style, elegance and wealth.