Look for a creamy, golden-beige rind under the netting
Avoid green or pale rind color
Choose a melon that feels heavy for its size
Check for a slight give at the blossom end
Smell the stem end for a sweet, fragrant aroma
Avoid melons with a strong sour or no smell
Pick one with a uniform shape
Avoid soft spots, cracks, or bruises
Look for dry, tan stem scars
Avoid cantaloupes with wet or moldy stems
Tap the melon gently and listen for a deep, hollow sound
Avoid melons that feel overly hard or mushy