Skin changes from mostly green to yellow, orange, or red-orange
Fruit gives slightly when gently pressed
Aroma is sweet and fruity near the stem end
Skin has a smooth, even color with few green patches
Papaya feels heavy for its size
Stem end looks dry, not moldy or mushy
Flesh inside is bright orange or salmon-colored
Seeds inside are black and glossy
Unripe papayas are firm and mostly green
Overripe papayas are very soft, wrinkled, or leaking juice