Look for a creamy, golden, or beige rind rather than green
Choose one with a sweet, fruity aroma at the stem end
Pick a cantaloupe that feels heavy for its size
Check for a slight give at the blossom end when pressed gently
Avoid melons with soft spots, cracks, or bruises
Select one with a raised, netted rind pattern
Avoid overly hard melons with no aroma
Choose one with a dry, intact stem scar
Tap it lightly and look for a deep, hollow sound
Pick one that is symmetrical and well-shaped