Look for a creamy beige or golden rind, not green
Choose one with a strong sweet aroma at the stem end
Pick a melon that feels heavy for its size
Check for a slightly soft blossom end
Avoid melons with cracks, bruises, or soft spots
Look for a netted rind that is raised and well-defined
Avoid cantaloupes with a stem still attached
Tap it lightly and choose one with a deep, hollow sound
Avoid overly hard melons that feel unripe
Avoid overly soft melons that feel mushy