Look for a creamy yellow or golden rind, not green
Choose one that feels heavy for its size
Check for a sweet, fragrant smell at the stem end
Press gently at the blossom end; it should give slightly
Avoid melons with soft spots, cracks, or mold
Pick one with a raised, netted surface
Avoid cantaloupes that feel very hard and smell weak
If the stem is attached, it should look clean and dry
Choose one with a uniform shape
Avoid bruised or damaged fruit