Look for:
coconuts that feel heavy for their size and are without cracks. Shake the coconut. You should hear liquid moving around and the coconut should sound full.
Avoid:
coconuts with eyes" that are damp, moist or moldy."
Seasonality: All year; peak season is October-December
Storing Coconut
Unopened coconuts can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 months. Place fresh grated coconut in a tightly sealed container (or plastic bag) and refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
Preparing Coconut
One medium coconut will yield 1 cup of liquid and 3 to 4 cups grated or flaked coconut. To grate flesh, bake at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes, remove the brown membrane with a knife or vegetable peeler and grate or chop in a food processor.